Comprehension
Read the following passage and answer the following questions by choosing the most appropriate answer.
Linguistics, an intricate and ever-evolving academic discipline, has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent decades, transcending its origins as a mere study of language to become a profound exploration of the complexities of human cognition and communication. The expanding purview of linguistics is a testament to its growing significance in understanding our world and enhancing our technological prowess. One of the most fundamental paradigm shift within linguistics has been its transition from a prescriptive to a descriptive approach. Early linguistic studies, embodied by the structuralist principles of Ferdinand de Saussure, predominantly focused on normative rules and language structures. However, the advent of modern linguistics, spearheaded by Noam Chomsky’s groundbreaking generative grammar theory, has heralded a new era of linguistic inquiry—one that seeks to understand not how languages should be used but how they are used in practice. This transformation has enabled linguists to uncover the underlying universals that govern human language, revealing its intricate tapestry. The synergy between linguistics and computer science has been instrumental in shaping our digital age. The birth of computational linguistics has given rise to transformative technologies, such as machine translation, speech recognition, and sentiment analysis. These applications, weaving the intricacies of human language with cutting-edge technology, have revolutionised fields as diverse as e-commerce, healthcare, and social media. The confluence of linguistics and computer science continues to chart new frontiers, shedding light on the symbiotic relationship between humans and machines. Moreover, interdisciplinary collaborations have propelled linguistics into uncharted territories. Cognitive linguistics marries linguistic theory with insights from psychology, neuroscience, and anthropology, unravelling the profound interplay between language and human cognition. Sociolinguistics and anthropological linguistics delve into the social and cultural dimensions of language, elucidating linguistic variations and their socio-cultural implications. This interdisciplinary nexus enriches our understanding of how language permeates all facets of human life.
Linguistics, an intricate and ever-evolving academic discipline, has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent decades, transcending its origins as a mere study of language to become a profound exploration of the complexities of human cognition and communication. The expanding purview of linguistics is a testament to its growing significance in understanding our world and enhancing our technological prowess. One of the most fundamental paradigm shift within linguistics has been its transition from a prescriptive to a descriptive approach. Early linguistic studies, embodied by the structuralist principles of Ferdinand de Saussure, predominantly focused on normative rules and language structures. However, the advent of modern linguistics, spearheaded by Noam Chomsky’s groundbreaking generative grammar theory, has heralded a new era of linguistic inquiry—one that seeks to understand not how languages should be used but how they are used in practice. This transformation has enabled linguists to uncover the underlying universals that govern human language, revealing its intricate tapestry. The synergy between linguistics and computer science has been instrumental in shaping our digital age. The birth of computational linguistics has given rise to transformative technologies, such as machine translation, speech recognition, and sentiment analysis. These applications, weaving the intricacies of human language with cutting-edge technology, have revolutionised fields as diverse as e-commerce, healthcare, and social media. The confluence of linguistics and computer science continues to chart new frontiers, shedding light on the symbiotic relationship between humans and machines. Moreover, interdisciplinary collaborations have propelled linguistics into uncharted territories. Cognitive linguistics marries linguistic theory with insights from psychology, neuroscience, and anthropology, unravelling the profound interplay between language and human cognition. Sociolinguistics and anthropological linguistics delve into the social and cultural dimensions of language, elucidating linguistic variations and their socio-cultural implications. This interdisciplinary nexus enriches our understanding of how language permeates all facets of human life.
Question: 1
What does the term ‘ever-evolving’ imply in the first paragraph?
What does the term ‘ever-evolving’ imply in the first paragraph?
Updated On: Aug 4, 2024
- Linguistics is becoming stagnant and unchanging.
- Linguistics is a dynamic field that continuously develops and changes.
- Linguistics has reached its peak and will not change further.
- Linguistics is regressing and losing its significance.
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The Correct Option is B
Solution and Explanation
The correct option is (B): Linguistics is a dynamic field that continuously develops and changes.
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Question: 2
Which option does NOT correctly infer the meaning based on the following sentence from the first paragraph? “The expanding purview of linguistics is a testament to its growing significance in understanding our world and enhancing our technological prowess.”
Which option does NOT correctly infer the meaning based on the following sentence from the first paragraph? “The expanding purview of linguistics is a testament to its growing significance in understanding our world and enhancing our technological prowess.”
Updated On: Aug 4, 2024
- Linguistics plays a significant role in our comprehension of the world and technological advancements.
- The scope of linguistics has grown, reflecting its increasing importance in understanding our world and advancing our technological capabilities.
- Linguistics has a declining influence on our understanding of the world and technological advancements.
- Expanding the field of linguistics has led to a greater focus on understanding the world and enhancing our technological capabilities.
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The Correct Option is C
Solution and Explanation
The correct option is (C): Linguistics has a declining influence on our understanding of the world and technological advancements.
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Question: 3
Why has the writer used the word “tapestry” in the phrase “revealing its intricate tapestry”?
Why has the writer used the word “tapestry” in the phrase “revealing its intricate tapestry”?
Updated On: Aug 4, 2024
- To emphasise the colourful and decorative nature of linguistic studies.
- To suggest that linguistics involves the crafting of physical artworks.
- To indicate the presence of hidden and mysterious aspects in linguistics.
- To imply that linguistics is like a woven fabric of interconnected elements.
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The Correct Option is D
Solution and Explanation
The correct option is (D): To imply that linguistics is like a woven fabric of interconnected elements.
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Question: 4
Select the option that correctly analyses the impact of the writer’s use of words like “synergy” and “confluence”.
Select the option that correctly analyses the impact of the writer’s use of words like “synergy” and “confluence”.
Updated On: Aug 4, 2024
- To illustrate the collision of linguistic theories with computer science, creating chaos in both fields.
- To illustrate the collision of linguistic theories with computer science, creating chaos in both fields.
- To describe the harmonious collaboration between linguistics and computer science, resulting in transformative technologies.
- To depict the isolation of linguistics from other academic disciplines and its struggle to adapt.
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The Correct Option is C
Solution and Explanation
The correct option is (C): To describe the harmonious collaboration between linguistics and computer science, resulting in transformative technologies.
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Question: 5
How can the relationship between humans and machines be described as ‘symbiotic’ ? (paragraph 3)
How can the relationship between humans and machines be described as ‘symbiotic’ ? (paragraph 3)
Updated On: Aug 4, 2024
- Because machines fully depend on humans for their functionality.
- As humans and machines work together, benefiting from each other’s capabilities.
- Because machines have replaced humans in various linguistic tasks.
- As humans have become overly reliant on machines for linguistic analysis.
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The Correct Option is B
Solution and Explanation
The correct option is (B): As humans and machines work together, benefiting from each other’s capabilities.
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Question: 6
What is an example of an interdisciplinary collaboration mentioned in the passage? (Paragraph 4)
What is an example of an interdisciplinary collaboration mentioned in the passage? (Paragraph 4)
Updated On: Aug 4, 2024
- Collaboration between linguistics and art history to study language’s visual representation.
- Collaboration between linguistics and chemistry to analyse language composition.
- Collaboration between linguistics and psychology, neuroscience, and anthropology to understand the interplay between language and human cognition.
- Collaboration between linguistics and astronomy to explore the influence of celestial bodies on human languages.
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The Correct Option is C
Solution and Explanation
The correct option is (C): Collaboration between linguistics and psychology, neuroscience, and anthropology to understand the interplay between language and human cognition.
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Top Questions on Reading Comprehension
- Read the excerpt from a Handicrafts Manual: ‘Advanced Knitting Techniques’ and answer the following questions by choosing the most appropriate answer.
THE FAIR ISLE METHOD: Fair Isle knitting is a traditional technique that involves using two or more colours of yarn in a single row to create intricate patterns and designs. This method requires careful tension management to ensure even stitches and prevent puckering. To begin, select your colours and cast on the desired number of stitches. As you knit, alternate between colours every few stitches, carrying the unused yarn along the back of the work. Mastering the Fair Isle technique allows you to create stunning visual effects in garments, accessories, and home textiles.
THE CONTINENTAL STYLE: The Continental knitting style, often referred to as “picking,” involves holding the yarn in the left hand while the right hand manipulates the needles. This method allows for greater speed and efficiency, particularly when working with complex patterns or multiple colours. To practice this style, start by casting on your stitches and using your left hand to tension the yarn. With each stitch, simply “pick” the yarn with your right needle, forming a quick and fluid motion. As you become comfortable with this technique, you may find that your overall knitting speed and comfort improve significantly.
THE SHORT-ROW TECHNIQUE: Short-row knitting is an advanced technique that allows for the creation of shaped garments, such as sleeves and shoulders, without the need for complex shaping. To make a sleeve using this technique, begin by casting on the required number of stitches. Work a portion of the row, then turn your work and return without completing the full row to create the “short rows” that shape the curves of the sleeve. To prevent holes at the turn, wrap the stitch before you turn your work. Repeat this process as needed to achieve the desired shaping and dimension of the sleeve. Once you have shaped the sleeve, you can then sew the side seams to connect the pieces of your garment and finally, complete the edges to ensure a clean finish. This method not only helps shape curves but also adds dimension to your piece, allowing you to enhance fit and style.- AILET BALLB (Hons.) - 2025
- English
- Reading Comprehension
- Read the following passage and answer the following questions by choosing the most appropriate answer.
The Story of Coffee
Coffee, a beloved beverage enjoyed by millions around the globe, has a rich and captivating history that spans centuries. The story of coffee begins in the ancient highlands of Ethiopia, where, according to legend, a goat herder named Kaldi discovered the stimulating effects of coffee beans. One day, Kaldi noticed his goats frolicking with unusual energy after eating red berries from a certain tree. Curious, he tried the berries himself and experienced a newfound alertness. This discovery soon spread to monasteries, where monks used it to stay awake during long hours of prayer. From Ethiopia, coffee cultivation and consumption spread to the Arabian Peninsula, particularly in Yemen, where the practice of roasting coffee beans and brewing the drink began to take shape. By the 15th century, coffee had become a popular beverage in the Islamic world, with coffee houses known as ‘qahveh khaneh’ emerging as social hubs for conversation, music, and intellectual exchange. These coffee houses became centers of culture and commerce, influencing the spread of coffee to Turkey and beyond, eventually reaching Europe. In Europe, coffee initially faced resistance from religious authorities who considered it a ‘Muslim drink’ and tried to ban it. However, its popularity persisted, and by the 17th century, coffee houses had sprung up in major European cities, becoming important gathering places for artists, writers, and thinkers. The stimulating effects of coffee were embraced during the Age of Enlightenment, where it was seen as a catalyst for intellectual discussion and innovation. The journey of coffee continued with the establishment of colonial plantations in tropical regions such as the Caribbean, Central and South America, and Southeast Asia. These plantations fuelled the global demand for coffee, transforming it from a regional specialty to a major commodity. The industrial revolution further accelerated coffee production and consumption, leading to innovations in coffee brewing methods and the development of instant coffee. In the modern era, coffee has evolved into a deeply ingrained part of daily life for people worldwide. Its cultural significance spans from the bustling cafes of Paris to the quiet coffee farms of Colombia. Today, coffee remains not only a popular beverage but also a symbol of social interaction, productivity, and enjoyment. Whether sipped slowly over a conversation with friends or grabbed hastily on the way to work, the story of coffee continues to unfold, intertwining with the histories and cultures of countless societies across the globe.- AILET BALLB (Hons.) - 2025
- English
- Reading Comprehension
- Read the following passage and answer the following questions by choosing the most appropriate answer.
The intricate world of modern manufacturing is a web of precision and innovation, where even the tiniest components play a pivotal role. One such element, often overlooked but crucial, is the sub-subpart. Whether it’s a carpenter fashioning a bespoke piece of furniture or an automobile engineer designing the next generation of vehicles, the creation of sub-subparts is a fundamental process that demands meticulous craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology. In the realm of woodworking, carpenters frequently work with sub-subparts like dowels, screws, and hinges. These minute components may appear insignificant, yet they determine the structural integrity and functionality of the final product. Crafting a dowel, for instance, begins with selecting the appropriate wood species, followed by precision cutting and shaping. The result is a perfectly cylindrical, sturdy sub-subpart that seamlessly joins two larger pieces of wood. The advent of computer-aided design (CAD) and computer numerical control (CNC) machines has revolutionised this process, enabling carpenters to create sub-subparts with unparalleled precision.
Similarly, in the automobile industry, sub-subparts are the unsung heroes of vehicle construction. Take, for instance, the ball bearing—a minuscule but essential component in the wheels and transmission system. Manufacturing these precision-engineered spheres involves intricate processes like forging, heat treatment, and precision machining. Modern techniques such as laser cutting and 3D printing have streamlined production, ensuring that these sub-subparts meet the demanding standards of the automotive sector. The manufacturing of sub-subparts is a testament to the convergence of traditional craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology. Whether it’s a carpenter’s workshop or a high-tech automotive assembly line, the quest for perfection in sub-subpart creation remains unwavering. The attention to detail and precision required in these processes is a testament to the dedication of craftsmen and engineers alike.
To conclude, while sub-subparts may be small in size, their significance in various industries cannot be overstated. Whether it’s a carpenter working on a timeless piece of furniture or an automotive engineer striving for superior performance, the manufacturing of sub-subparts is a crucial step towards achieving excellence in craftsmanship and technology. This fusion of tradition and innovation accentuates the essence of modern manufacturing.- AILET BALLB (Hons.) - 2025
- English
- Reading Comprehension
- Read the book descriptions for three different books and answer the questions by choosing the most appropriate options.
\(\text{The Politics of Change}\) \(\text{The Change in Politics}\) \(\text{Politics and Change:}\) A Global Perspective} In "The Politics of Change," political analyst Dr. Emily Harper examines the dynamics of social movements and their impact on policy reform. Through detailed case studies, she explores how grassroots organizations, protests, and advocacy campaigns shape public opinion and influence lawmakers. Dr. Harper provides insights into the strategies that successful movements employ and discusses the challenges they face in a complex political landscape. She discusses key strategies, such as coalition-building, media engagement, and the use of digital platforms to amplify voices. This book by veteran journalist Mark Stevens investigates the shifting political landscape in the 21st century. Focusing on major elections, emerging political parties, and the role of social media, Stevens analyzes how technology and demographics are transforming political engagement and voter behaviour. Through interviews with political leaders, campaign strategists, and everyday voters, Stevens uncovers how demographic shifts and technological advancements are reshaping political discourse in urban areas. He analyzes the implications of these changes for traditional political institutions and explores how movements like #MeToo and Black Lives Matter have disrupted conventional narratives. In this insightful work, international relations scholar Dr. Anika Patel presents a global analysis of political change across various regions. She explores the factors that drive political transitions, including economic shifts, cultural movements, and international influences. Dr. Patel emphasizes the interconnectedness of global politics and how local changes can have far-reaching implications. She analyzes various factors driving political transitions, including economic upheaval, cultural shifts, and the impact of globalization. She provides case studies from diverse regions, such as the Arab Spring, democratic movements in Latin America, and shifts in power in Asia. The book serves as a vital resource for understanding the complexities of political evolution in a rapidly changing world. - AILET BALLB (Hons.) - 2025
- English
- Reading Comprehension
- The levels of dissolved oxygen in the world's ocean waters are declining precipitously. Just like humans, fish need oxygen to survive, and so in ocean areas experiencing significant levels of oxygen scarcity, or hypoxia, fish populations are plummeting. Although some hypoxic areas, called "dead zones," occur naturally, hypoxia in coastal areas and inland waters is caused mainly by agricultural run-off and by discharge of industrial wastewater. More than one hundred permanent dead zones, many covering thousands of square miles, exist worldwide today.
Since reproductive success is the most critical factor in the sustainability of any species, the extent of this threat to marine life and genetic diversity can hardly be overstated. After several months in hypoxic waters, female fish produce fewer eggs. Moreover, hypoxic conditions serve to alter the normal ratio between two particular hormones manufactured during the embryonic stage when a fish's gender is determined. During gestation and under these conditions, the mother produces more testosterone (and less estradiol), which inhibits the development of female reproductive organs and other female characteristics in the embryo, while promoting the development of male traits.
The implications of declining oxygen levels extend beyond individual species to entire ecosystems. Marine biodiversity is at risk as species that cannot adapt to hypoxic conditions may face extinction, leading to a cascade of effects throughout the food web. Predators may struggle to find adequate prey, while other marine organisms, such as coral reefs, which rely on healthy fish populations for symbiotic relationships, may also deteriorate. The loss of biodiversity can disrupt ecosystem services that are essential for human communities, including fisheries, tourism, and coastal protection.- AILET BALLB (Hons.) - 2025
- English
- Reading Comprehension
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Questions Asked in AILET exam
- Issue: Is football the most popular sport in the world?
Argument 1: Yes, Football World Cup (FIFA) have over five times global viewership as compared to Formula 1 Grand Prix (Car racing) or the Wimbledon Championships (Tennis).
Argument 2: Yes, Lionel Messi is the most followed footballer across social media platforms.
Argument 3: No, the Cricket World Cup has been the most profitable sports event worldwide for the last three decades.
Choose the most appropriate answer:- AILET BALLB (Hons.) - 2025
- Statements and Arguments
- Vinay is trying to decide the sequence in which to watch the following movies –Sholay (SH), RRR, Slumdog Millionaire (SM), PK and Dangal (DL). The sequence must adhere to the following conditions:
I. SH and DL must not immediately precede or follow each other.
II. RRR must go after SM.
III. PK cannot be the first or the last movie.
IV. DL must necessarily be one removed from SM.
Which of the following is a valid sequence? - Sanjana is attempting to create an exercise plan for a 5-day week. She has decided on the following exercises – A, X, B, Y, C, in accordance with the following conditions.
I. A and Y cannot be on the consecutive days
II. C must always be followed by B
III. B and A cannot be done on alternate days
IV. X cannot be done on the first day of the week
V. No exercise can be repeated in the week
Which of the following is a valid plan? - Assertion: The rise of OTT platforms is challenging the traditional movie theatre business.
Argument 1: OTT platforms and traditional movie theatre present completely different experience and therefore are unlikely to affect each other.
Argument 2: OTT platforms ensure instant availability of diverse content, which a traditional movie theatre cannot emulate.
Choose the most appropriate answer:- AILET BALLB (Hons.) - 2025
- Statements and Arguments
- All Rabbits are Sleepers. All Tortoise paints. Some Rabbits are Tortoise. Siri is a Rabbit. Examine the following statements:
I. Siri paints
II. Siri does not paint
III. Siri is a Sleeper
IV. Siri is not a Sleeper
V. Siri is a Tortoise
VI. Siri is not a Tortoise
Choose the most appropriate answer:
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