NET, IAS, State-SET (KSET, WBSET, MPSET, etc.), GATE, CUET, Olympiads etc. English Language Comprehension Set 6

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Directions (Q.) : The passage given below is followed by a set of question. Choose the best answer for each question.

PASSAGE – 1

Given overwhelming evidence for the primacy of sociocultural factors in determining both drinking patterns and their consequences, it is clear that ethnographic research findings on the social and cultural roles of alcohol may have important implications for policy-makers – particularly in areas such s Europe where economic and political ‘convergence’ could have significant impact on drinking – cultures and their associated lifestyles.

In this context, it is essential for those concerned with policy and legislation on alcohol to have a clear understanding of the sociocultural functions and meanings of drinking. This passage outlines the principal conclusions that can be drawn from the available cross-cultural material regarding the symbolic

Uses of alcoholic beverages, the social functions of drinking-places and the roles of alcohol in transitional and celebratory celebratory rituals.

From the ethnographic material available, it is clear that in all cultures where more than one type of alcoholic beverage is available, drinks are classified in terms of their social meaning. And the classification of drinks is used to define are ‘socially neutral’ : every drink is loaded with symbolic meaning, every drink conveys a message. Alcohol is a symbolic vehicle for manipulating cultural systems,

values, interpersonal relationships, behavioral norms and expectations. Choice of beverage is rarely a matter of personal taste.

At the simplest level, drinks are used to define the nature of the occasion. In many Western cultures, for example, champagne is synonymous with celebration, such that is champagne is ordered or served at an otherwise ‘ordinary’ occasion, and someone will invariably ask “What are we celebrating?”

In the Weiner Beckon in Austria, sect is drunk on formal occasions, while schnapps is reserved for more intimate, convivial gatherings – the type of drink served defines both the nature of the event and the social relationship among among the drinkers. The choice of drink also dictates behavior, to the extent that the appearance of a bottle of schnapps can prompt a switch from the ‘polite’ form of address, sie, to the highly intimate du.

Q-1 According to the author.

(a) Drinks are classified in order to define the economic scenario of the country.

(b) Drinks are classified in order to depict the real-life political situation of the world

(c) Drinks are classified in order to define the social world.

(d) Drinks are classified on the basis of public demand.

Q-2 All of the following is true in terms of the passage except:

(a) Champagne is similar to celebration in Western countries.

(b) Drink determines the behavior of the person.

(c) Every drink carries a symbolic meaning with it.

(d) All alcoholic drinks are “socially neutral” .

Q-3 the author states the different functions of drinking in order to:

(a) Describe that drinking is socially positive.

(b) The names of different drinks and the occasions when they are consumed.

(c) Bring about the hidden aspects of the Western culture.

(d) Emphasize that alcohol is a symbolic representation of determining cultural values, relationships and behavioral patterns.

Q-4 which of the following words is closest in meaning to the word “convivial” used in the fifth paragraph of the passage?

(a) Genial

(b) Intimidate

(c) Harassing

(d) Rude

Directions (Q.) Each question below consists of a word, followed by four. Choose the word that is most nearly the same in meaning to the word given in the question.

Q-5 Incongruous

(a) Regular

(b) Fighting

(c) Discordant

(d) Mandatory

Q-6 Felicity

(a) Jubliation

(b) Encouragement

(c) Discordant

(d) Pleasant

Directions (Q.) : Choose the active form of the sentence given below:

Q-7 Akki was made to join the art academy because of his father՚s interest.

(a) Akki was forced to join the art academy because of his father՚s interest.

(b) Akki took the decision of joining the art academy because of his father՚s interest.

(c) Akki՚s father is responsible for his joining of the art academy.

(d) Akki joined the art academy because of his father՚s interest.

Directions (Q.) : Fill in the blanks with the suitable collective nouns from the options given below the sentences.

Q-8 They were delighted to see a ________ of fish near the bank of the river.

(a) Platoon

(b) Shoal

(c) Tidings

(d) Meeting

Q-9 Children were excited to see a ________ of candies.

(a) Mint

(b) Shoal

(c) Tidings

(d) Meeting

Q-10 Further complicating the situation in the US is the fact that whatever decision is made can be overruled by the family.

(a) That whatever decision is made can be overruled by the family

(b) Whatever decision is made can be overruled by the family

(c) That what decision is made can be overruled by the family

(d) That whatever decision is made can be ruled by the family