Question

What must be done if we want to succeed in any undertaking?

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the passage.
The passage emphasizes that success in any undertaking does not come easily. Every goal in life involves challenges, hardships, and failures. To achieve success, one must not abandon the effort midway but continue working until the goal is reached. Step 2: Perseverance as the key.
It is highlighted that steady and determined effort is essential. Giving up due to difficulties only leads to failure, while consistent striving leads to achievement. Success belongs to those who work with patience and determination despite repeated setbacks. Step 3: Moral from the passage.
The examples given in the passage show that even great personalities like Sheridan and the Earl of Beaconsfield initially faced failures and humiliation, yet they did not quit. They kept striving, and eventually, their efforts bore fruit. Conclusion:
Therefore, if we want to succeed in any undertaking, we must work steadily, face challenges with courage, and never lose hope until we achieve our goal.

Answer 2

Step 1: Sheridan’s first attempt.
Sheridan, a well-known orator of England, once attempted to make a speech in the Parliament. However, he was unable to perform successfully. He broke down in the middle of his speech and had to sit down in great discomfort and embarrassment. Step 2: Reaction of his friend.
His friend criticized him and told him that he could never be an orator. This could have easily discouraged anyone from trying again. Step 3: Sheridan’s determination.
Instead of accepting defeat, Sheridan firmly replied, “It is in me and shall come out.” These words reflected his inner confidence and belief in his own abilities. He was determined not to give up despite the initial failure. Step 4: Final outcome.
Through constant practice and perseverance, Sheridan ultimately succeeded in becoming one of the most persuasive and celebrated orators of his time. His story proves that failure is temporary, but determination and effort can turn it into success. Conclusion:
When Sheridan failed to make a speech in Parliament, he did not give up. Instead, he treated his failure as a stepping stone and, through determination, became a successful orator.

Answer 3

Step 1: Context of Sheridan’s failure.
Sheridan, a famous English orator, once tried to deliver a speech in Parliament but failed miserably. He sat down in great discomfort and was mocked by his friend, who told him that he could never be an orator. Step 2: Sheridan’s reply.
Instead of losing hope, Sheridan confidently replied, “It is in me and shall come out.” By this statement, Sheridan meant that he believed in his inner ability and talent. He was convinced that although his oratory skill had not shown itself yet, it was within him and would be revealed with time and practice. Step 3: Meaning of the statement.
The statement shows Sheridan’s strong determination and self-confidence. It means that one’s true abilities may take time to emerge, but with perseverance and courage, they eventually shine. Sheridan’s words proved true when he later became one of the most persuasive orators of his time. Conclusion:
By saying this, Sheridan expressed his faith in his own potential and showed the power of determination in overcoming failures.

Answer 4

Step 1: Main theme of the passage.
The passage highlights that success in life requires consistent effort, patience, and courage. No achievement comes without facing difficulties. Failures are a natural part of the journey but should not discourage us. Step 2: Examples in the passage.
The passage uses examples of Sheridan and the Earl of Beaconsfield, who initially failed in their speeches but later became successful orators. Their determination and refusal to give up led to their eventual success. Step 3: Moral lesson.
The lesson from the passage is clear: We must not lose heart in the face of failure. Instead, we should treat failure as a stepping stone and continue striving with courage and confidence until success is achieved. Conclusion:
From the passage, we learn that perseverance, self-confidence, and hard work are the real keys to success. Failure is temporary, but determination makes success permanent.

Answer 5

The word in the passage that means ‘embarrassment’ is ‘discomfiture’.
Explanation:
‘Discomfiture’ refers to a state of uneasiness, confusion, or embarrassment. In the passage, Sheridan felt discomfiture when he failed in his first attempt to make a speech in Parliament.

Answer 6

The word in the passage opposite to ‘lazily’ is ‘steadily’.
Explanation:
‘Lazily’ means doing something without effort or energy. The opposite of this, as used in the passage, is ‘steadily,’ which conveys doing something with consistency, effort, and determination.

Answer 7

Step 1: Understanding the phrase.
The phrase ‘proved to be prophetic’ means that the words spoken earlier turned out to be true in the future, just as a prophecy does. Step 2: Usage in the passage.
In the passage, Sheridan said, “I have several times begun many things and often succeeded at last. I shall sit down now, but the time will come when you will hear me.” These words came true when he later became one of the greatest orators. Step 3: Conclusion.
Thus, the phrase indicates that Sheridan’s hopeful words about his future success turned out to be accurate predictions.