Vocabulary
Vocabulary is the foundation of any language. It refers to the set of words known and used by a person. In competitive exams like UPSC, vocabulary is not just about knowing the dictionary meaning of a word. It is about understanding how to use the right word in the right context. For example, consider the words 'Adopt' and 'Adapt'. To 'Adopt' means to take something as your own, like a new law or a child. To 'Adapt' means to change yourself to fit a new situation.
Concepts (3)
In these questions, you must choose the most suitable word for a blank space. You must look at the grammar and the logic of the sentence. For example, 'The government ________ the new law.
In these questions, you must choose the most suitable word for a blank space. You must look at the grammar and the logic of the sentence. For example, 'The government ________ the new law.' The word 'implemented' fits better than 'imagined' because laws are put into action. Always check if the word is a noun, verb, or adjective to match the sentence structure.
Etymology is the study of the origin of words. Most English words come from Greek or Latin roots. For example, 'Phil' means love. So, a 'Philanthropist' is someone who loves humanity and does charity.
Etymology is the study of the origin of words. Most English words come from Greek or Latin roots. For example, 'Phil' means love. So, a 'Philanthropist' is someone who loves humanity and does charity. Knowing one root can help you understand many words. Example: 'Auto' means self. This gives us 'Automatic' (self-moving) and 'Autobiography' (self-written life story).
Homophones are words that sound exactly the same but have different spellings and meanings. These are common traps in exams. Example: 'Principal' (the head of a school) vs. 'Principle' (a basic rule or belief).
Homophones are words that sound exactly the same but have different spellings and meanings. These are common traps in exams. Example: 'Principal' (the head of a school) vs. 'Principle' (a basic rule or belief). Homonyms are words that have the same spelling and sound but different meanings. Example: 'Bank' (side of a river) vs. 'Bank' (a place to keep money).
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Start Lesson: Contextual Fillers