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CUET English 2025 21 May Shift 2 PYQs

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Q1:

21 May Shift 2

VA > Passage

Medium

Ashlyn Greer was on the hunt. This time in the messy back room of a vintage boutique two blocks from An Unlikely Story, the rare bookstore she'd owned and operated for nearly four years. She'd received a call from Kenny Patel, the boutique's owner, about a man from Rye who brought in several cartons of books, one of which contained hardbacks, recent bestsellers of Steel, Chamberlain, and Garrett—esteemed authors, but hardly rare. The second carton offered a more eclectic mix, including several health and nutrition books, one guaranteeing a flat tummy in thirty days, another touting the benefits of a miraculous diet. She worked quickly, careful not to hold on to any books for too long, but it was hard not to pick up subtle vibrations as she returned them to the carton. They had belonged to someone who was sick, afraid, and worried about running out of time. It was a gift Ashlyn had since she was twelve, like a perfumer's nose—the ability to sense the echoes attached to certain inanimate objects, especially books. She didn't know how it worked. After a fight between her parents, she had paddled to the cramped bookshop, her safe place. The owner, Frank, greeted her with a taciturn nod. He knew about her troubled home life but never mentioned it, offering her a quiet refuge instead. It was a kindness she'd never forgotten. It was there she first experienced the strange sensation of shock and sadness, when she picked up The Water-Babies.

What special gift did Ashlyn Greer have since the age of twelve, and where did she first experience it?

Her gift of identifying rarities from ordinary books; at home during a fight between her parents

Her penchant for reading; in the vintage boutique back room

Her gift of sensing emotions from books; at a cramped bookshop after a fight between her parents

Her ability to experience shock and sadness with a balanced mind; in her own bookstore, An Unlikely Story

Correct Answer

Option 3

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q2:

21 May Shift 2

VA > Passage

Medium

Ashlyn Greer was on the hunt. This time in the messy back room of a vintage boutique two blocks from An Unlikely Story, the rare bookstore she'd owned and operated for nearly four years. She'd received a call from Kenny Patel, the boutique's owner, about a man from Rye who brought in several cartons of books, one of which contained hardbacks, recent bestsellers of Steel, Chamberlain, and Garrett—esteemed authors, but hardly rare. The second carton offered a more eclectic mix, including several health and nutrition books, one guaranteeing a flat tummy in thirty days, another touting the benefits of a miraculous diet. She worked quickly, careful not to hold on to any books for too long, but it was hard not to pick up subtle vibrations as she returned them to the carton. They had belonged to someone who was sick, afraid, and worried about running out of time. It was a gift Ashlyn had since she was twelve, like a perfumer's nose—the ability to sense the echoes attached to certain inanimate objects, especially books. She didn't know how it worked. After a fight between her parents, she had paddled to the cramped bookshop, her safe place. The owner, Frank, greeted her with a taciturn nod. He knew about her troubled home life but never mentioned it, offering her a quiet refuge instead. It was a kindness she'd never forgotten. It was there she first experienced the strange sensation of shock and sadness, when she picked up The Water-Babies.

What does the mention of Ashlyn's visit to the cramped bookshop after a fight between her parents signify about her connection to books?

It shows her preference for solitude during stressful times

It marks the moment when she realized her passion for running a bookstore

It highlights her reliance on the cramped bookshop as a source of discovery

It demonstrates her skill in identifying rare and valuable books

Correct Answer

Option 1

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q3:

21 May Shift 2

VA > Passage

Medium

Ashlyn Greer was on the hunt. This time in the messy back room of a vintage boutique two blocks from An Unlikely Story, the rare bookstore she'd owned and operated for nearly four years. She'd received a call from Kenny Patel, the boutique's owner, about a man from Rye who brought in several cartons of books, one of which contained hardbacks, recent bestsellers of Steel, Chamberlain, and Garrett—esteemed authors, but hardly rare. The second carton offered a more eclectic mix, including several health and nutrition books, one guaranteeing a flat tummy in thirty days, another touting the benefits of a miraculous diet. She worked quickly, careful not to hold on to any books for too long, but it was hard not to pick up subtle vibrations as she returned them to the carton. They had belonged to someone who was sick, afraid, and worried about running out of time. It was a gift Ashlyn had since she was twelve, like a perfumer's nose—the ability to sense the echoes attached to certain inanimate objects, especially books. She didn't know how it worked. After a fight between her parents, she had paddled to the cramped bookshop, her safe place. The owner, Frank, greeted her with a taciturn nod. He knew about her troubled home life but never mentioned it, offering her a quiet refuge instead. It was a kindness she'd never forgotten. It was there she first experienced the strange sensation of shock and sadness, when she picked up The Water-Babies.

What did Ashlyn sense about the person who previously owned the books in the second carton?

The person was excited about new diets

The person was a collector of rare books

The person was ailing, aghast, and worried about elapsing time.

The person was indifferent towards his possessions

Correct Answer

Option 3

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q4:

21 May Shift 2

VA > Passage

Medium

Ashlyn Greer was on the hunt. This time in the messy back room of a vintage boutique two blocks from An Unlikely Story, the rare bookstore she'd owned and operated for nearly four years. She'd received a call from Kenny Patel, the boutique's owner, about a man from Rye who brought in several cartons of books, one of which contained hardbacks, recent bestsellers of Steel, Chamberlain, and Garrett—esteemed authors, but hardly rare. The second carton offered a more eclectic mix, including several health and nutrition books, one guaranteeing a flat tummy in thirty days, another touting the benefits of a miraculous diet. She worked quickly, careful not to hold on to any books for too long, but it was hard not to pick up subtle vibrations as she returned them to the carton. They had belonged to someone who was sick, afraid, and worried about running out of time. It was a gift Ashlyn had since she was twelve, like a perfumer's nose—the ability to sense the echoes attached to certain inanimate objects, especially books. She didn't know how it worked. After a fight between her parents, she had paddled to the cramped bookshop, her safe place. The owner, Frank, greeted her with a taciturn nod. He knew about her troubled home life but never mentioned it, offering her a quiet refuge instead. It was a kindness she'd never forgotten. It was there she first experienced the strange sensation of shock and sadness, when she picked up The Water-Babies.

What does Ashlyn's ability to sense echoes from books resemble, as described in the text?

A librarian's instinct for organization

A perfumer's nose for scents

A musician's ear for melodies

A historian's memory for details

Correct Answer

Option 2

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q5:

21 May Shift 2

VA > Passage

Easy

The brain operates in different states, measured in five main categories of brain waves: alpha, beta, gamma, theta and delta. Most of the time, our brains are in a 'default work' state, characterized by beta and gamma waves. This is when we're using our brains to solve problems and focus on tasks which require us to stay in an alert, active state. This is an essential role, for sure, but not one you want to stay in for too long, as it raises cortisol levels in the body, increasing feelings of stress and anxiety. "Stress, and the effects it has on the body, is one of the main drivers of chronic disease and depression today," says Dr.Vuu. A study published in Frontiers Neuroscience found that stress caused physiological changes in the brain, increasing the risk of everything from mood disorders to autoimmune disease and dementia. A 2021 meta-analysis of multiple studies found that engaging in leisure activities can improve health by protecting against coronary heart disease, cognitive decline and dementia. Hobbies not only improve our neuro plasticity but also make us happier. In all, hobbies are a powerful antidote to stress, causing a cascade of positive changes. "Doing a hobby you enjoy puts your brain into a 'flow' state, characterized by alpha and theta waves, which cause you to feel relaxed, less stressed and less anxious," Dr. Vuu says. These brain states are characterized by feelings of deep relaxation, passive focus, creativity, intuition and daydreaming.

The ______ levels of people who are always on alert mode are very high.

alpha

cortisol

cognitive

creativity

Correct Answer

Option 2

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q6:

21 May Shift 2

VA > Passage

Medium

The brain operates in different states, measured in five main categories of brain waves: alpha, beta, gamma, theta and delta. Most of the time, our brains are in a 'default work' state, characterized by beta and gamma waves. This is when we're using our brains to solve problems and focus on tasks which require us to stay in an alert, active state. This is an essential role, for sure, but not one you want to stay in for too long, as it raises cortisol levels in the body, increasing feelings of stress and anxiety. "Stress, and the effects it has on the body, is one of the main drivers of chronic disease and depression today," says Dr.Vuu. A study published in Frontiers Neuroscience found that stress caused physiological changes in the brain, increasing the risk of everything from mood disorders to autoimmune disease and dementia. A 2021 meta-analysis of multiple studies found that engaging in leisure activities can improve health by protecting against coronary heart disease, cognitive decline and dementia. Hobbies not only improve our neuro plasticity but also make us happier. In all, hobbies are a powerful antidote to stress, causing a cascade of positive changes. "Doing a hobby you enjoy puts your brain into a 'flow' state, characterized by alpha and theta waves, which cause you to feel relaxed, less stressed and less anxious," Dr. Vuu says. These brain states are characterized by feelings of deep relaxation, passive focus, creativity, intuition and daydreaming.

To solve any kind of problems, and remain focused, the human brain uses--------- waves.

alpha & gamma

beta & gamma

delta & theta

theta & alpha

Correct Answer

Option 2

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q7:

21 May Shift 2

VA > Passage

Medium

The brain operates in different states, measured in five main categories of brain waves: alpha, beta, gamma, theta and delta. Most of the time, our brains are in a 'default work' state, characterized by beta and gamma waves. This is when we're using our brains to solve problems and focus on tasks which require us to stay in an alert, active state. This is an essential role, for sure, but not one you want to stay in for too long, as it raises cortisol levels in the body, increasing feelings of stress and anxiety. "Stress, and the effects it has on the body, is one of the main drivers of chronic disease and depression today," says Dr.Vuu. A study published in Frontiers Neuroscience found that stress caused physiological changes in the brain, increasing the risk of everything from mood disorders to autoimmune disease and dementia. A 2021 meta-analysis of multiple studies found that engaging in leisure activities can improve health by protecting against coronary heart disease, cognitive decline and dementia. Hobbies not only improve our neuro plasticity but also make us happier. In all, hobbies are a powerful antidote to stress, causing a cascade of positive changes. "Doing a hobby you enjoy puts your brain into a 'flow' state, characterized by alpha and theta waves, which cause you to feel relaxed, less stressed and less anxious," Dr. Vuu says. These brain states are characterized by feelings of deep relaxation, passive focus, creativity, intuition and daydreaming.

The ____ activities work like medicine to alleviate stress.

leisure

passive

multiple

antidote

Correct Answer

Option 1

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q8:

21 May Shift 2

VA > Passage

Medium

The brain operates in different states, measured in five main categories of brain waves: alpha, beta, gamma, theta and delta. Most of the time, our brains are in a 'default work' state, characterized by beta and gamma waves. This is when we're using our brains to solve problems and focus on tasks which require us to stay in an alert, active state. This is an essential role, for sure, but not one you want to stay in for too long, as it raises cortisol levels in the body, increasing feelings of stress and anxiety. "Stress, and the effects it has on the body, is one of the main drivers of chronic disease and depression today," says Dr.Vuu. A study published in Frontiers Neuroscience found that stress caused physiological changes in the brain, increasing the risk of everything from mood disorders to autoimmune disease and dementia. A 2021 meta-analysis of multiple studies found that engaging in leisure activities can improve health by protecting against coronary heart disease, cognitive decline and dementia. Hobbies not only improve our neuro plasticity but also make us happier. In all, hobbies are a powerful antidote to stress, causing a cascade of positive changes. "Doing a hobby you enjoy puts your brain into a 'flow' state, characterized by alpha and theta waves, which cause you to feel relaxed, less stressed and less anxious," Dr. Vuu says. These brain states are characterized by feelings of deep relaxation, passive focus, creativity, intuition and daydreaming.

To achieve a 'flow' state of the brain, one needs to pursue----------which generate a calming effect.

work

hobbies

creativity

stress

Correct Answer

Option 2

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q9:

21 May Shift 2

VA > Passage

Medium

Till recently, many scholars have worked on collections of folk songs, but their main attention was on their lyrical content. The musical aspect just did not receive as much attention. Hence, the subject remained a closed book. When I ventured to study the subject, I faced the stark fact that the only source available to me was the rustic folk themselves. The difficulties for such a primary worker in any field are very well-known. But the co-operation I had from the simple men and women of the villages made me forget everything. With the deepest love and gratitude to the village folks, I present to you some fragments of my collection and humble observations on them. Now, who are these folks? I would say that they are the "civilized" people of the villages. They are a group in whom the economic, educational and cultural diversity of the city is much less pronounced. Their modes of life, customs, lore and songs are known and shared by one and all in the group. Their art, particularly their music, is the expression of their thoughts, feelings, hopes and aspirations. Their music is simple, natural and free from any kind of artificial sophistication or inhibition, which is an unavoidable feature of any urban society. Tamilnad abounds in the beauties of nature in all its vicissitudes, hills and dales, plains and pasturage. Its magnificent temples have fostered arts like architecture, sculpture, music, dance, painting and literature. It is of interest to note that folk arts, culture and tradition had a great part to play in the development of these.

One of the factors responsible for Tamilnad's cultural heritage is it's-------------.

magnificent temples and natural beauty

traditions & simplicity of people

folk art, culture and tradition

architecture, sculpture and music

Correct Answer

Option 3

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q10:

21 May Shift 2

VA > Passage

Medium

Till recently, many scholars have worked on collections of folk songs, but their main attention was on their lyrical content. The musical aspect just did not receive as much attention. Hence, the subject remained a closed book. When I ventured to study the subject, I faced the stark fact that the only source available to me was the rustic folk themselves. The difficulties for such a primary worker in any field are very well-known. But the co-operation I had from the simple men and women of the villages made me forget everything. With the deepest love and gratitude to the village folks, I present to you some fragments of my collection and humble observations on them. Now, who are these folks? I would say that they are the "civilized" people of the villages. They are a group in whom the economic, educational and cultural diversity of the city is much less pronounced. Their modes of life, customs, lore and songs are known and shared by one and all in the group. Their art, particularly their music, is the expression of their thoughts, feelings, hopes and aspirations. Their music is simple, natural and free from any kind of artificial sophistication or inhibition, which is an unavoidable feature of any urban society. Tamilnad abounds in the beauties of nature in all its vicissitudes, hills and dales, plains and pasturage. Its magnificent temples have fostered arts like architecture, sculpture, music, dance, painting and literature. It is of interest to note that folk arts, culture and tradition had a great part to play in the development of these.

Choose the statement/s which is/are correct according to the passage: (A) The village folk were innocent. (B) The village folk were simple & cooperative. (C) Their music was the expression of their hopes and aspirations. (D) Their music belonged to urban society only. Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

(A) only

(B) and (C) only

(C) and (D) only

(A) and (D) only

Correct Answer

Option 2

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q11:

21 May Shift 2

VA > Passage

Medium

Till recently, many scholars have worked on collections of folk songs, but their main attention was on their lyrical content. The musical aspect just did not receive as much attention. Hence, the subject remained a closed book. When I ventured to study the subject, I faced the stark fact that the only source available to me was the rustic folk themselves. The difficulties for such a primary worker in any field are very well-known. But the co-operation I had from the simple men and women of the villages made me forget everything. With the deepest love and gratitude to the village folks, I present to you some fragments of my collection and humble observations on them. Now, who are these folks? I would say that they are the "civilized" people of the villages. They are a group in whom the economic, educational and cultural diversity of the city is much less pronounced. Their modes of life, customs, lore and songs are known and shared by one and all in the group. Their art, particularly their music, is the expression of their thoughts, feelings, hopes and aspirations. Their music is simple, natural and free from any kind of artificial sophistication or inhibition, which is an unavoidable feature of any urban society. Tamilnad abounds in the beauties of nature in all its vicissitudes, hills and dales, plains and pasturage. Its magnificent temples have fostered arts like architecture, sculpture, music, dance, painting and literature. It is of interest to note that folk arts, culture and tradition had a great part to play in the development of these.

What are the author's feelings towards the village folk?

Love & gratitude

Jealousy & anger

Sympathy & apathy

Frustration & indifference

Correct Answer

Option 1

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q12:

21 May Shift 2

VA > Passage

Medium

Till recently, many scholars have worked on collections of folk songs, but their main attention was on their lyrical content. The musical aspect just did not receive as much attention. Hence, the subject remained a closed book. When I ventured to study the subject, I faced the stark fact that the only source available to me was the rustic folk themselves. The difficulties for such a primary worker in any field are very well-known. But the co-operation I had from the simple men and women of the villages made me forget everything. With the deepest love and gratitude to the village folks, I present to you some fragments of my collection and humble observations on them. Now, who are these folks? I would say that they are the "civilized" people of the villages. They are a group in whom the economic, educational and cultural diversity of the city is much less pronounced. Their modes of life, customs, lore and songs are known and shared by one and all in the group. Their art, particularly their music, is the expression of their thoughts, feelings, hopes and aspirations. Their music is simple, natural and free from any kind of artificial sophistication or inhibition, which is an unavoidable feature of any urban society. Tamilnad abounds in the beauties of nature in all its vicissitudes, hills and dales, plains and pasturage. Its magnificent temples have fostered arts like architecture, sculpture, music, dance, painting and literature. It is of interest to note that folk arts, culture and tradition had a great part to play in the development of these.

Select the appropriate option for the underlined phrase given below: 'The subject remained a closed book.'

No more in use

No more to talk about

Nothing much is known

A waste of time

Correct Answer

Option 3

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q13:

21 May Shift 2

VA > Grammar

Medium

Fill in the blanks in the given sentences in List-I with the appropriate adjectives given in List-II : | List-I | List-II | |---|---| | (Sentences) | (Adjectives) | | (A) He made use of _____ opportunities he had to prove his talent. | (I) the few | | (B) I have _____ friends who can help me with this task. | (II) the little | | (C) She drank ____ water to quench her thirst. | (III) a few | | (D) I will share ____ knowledge I have with you on this subject. | (IV) a little | Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

(A) - (II), (B) - (IV), (C) - (I), (D) - (III)

(A) - (IV), (B) - (I), (C) - (III), (D) - (II)

(A) - (I), (B) - (III), (C) - (IV), (D) - (II)

(A) - (II), (B) - (IV), (C) - (I), (D) - (II)

Correct Answer

Option 3

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q14:

21 May Shift 2

Vocabulary > Phrasal Verbs

Medium

Select the most appropriate expression to fill in the blank in the given sentence: The vibrant painting _________ in the gallery, captivating all who walked by, with its bold colors and unique style.

stood off

stood out

stood by

stood over

Correct Answer

Option 2

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q15:

21 May Shift 2

Vocabulary > Antonyms

Medium

Choose the correct antonym of the word Onerous from the options given below:

Arduous

Opulent

Effortless

Favourable

Correct Answer

Option 3

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q16:

21 May Shift 2

Vocabulary > Word Usage

Medium

Complete the sentences given in List I with the correct option of words given in List-II: | List-I | List-II | |---|---| | (Sentences) | (words) | | (A) There is a lot of ____ within the employees on the issue. | (i) rift | | (B) His opinion_____ the general opinion of the experts. | (ii) dissent | | (C) The growing ___ in the Family with respect to who will be the next Managing Director is now public | (iii) conform to | | (D) His ideas do not ______ the general definition of civilization. | (iv) concurs with | Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

(A) - (II), (B) - (III), (C) - (IV), (D) - (I)

(A) - (III), (B) - (IV), (C) - (I), (D) - (II)

(A) - (I), (B) - (III), (C) - (IV), (D) - (II)

(A) - (II), (B) - (IV), (C) - (I), (D) - (III)

Correct Answer

Option 4

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q17:

21 May Shift 2

VA > Rearrangement

Medium

Rearrange the given parts to form a meaningful sentence: (A) disrupting the natural flow of reading (B) the intended meaning of a given text, thereby (C) ambiguity unintentionally creates confusion (D) for the readers, making it harder for them to follow Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

(A), (D), (C), (B)

(C), (D), (B), (A)

(B), (C), (D), (A)

(D), (B), (C), (A)

Correct Answer

Option 2

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q18:

21 May Shift 2

VA > Grammar

Medium

Select the most appropriate words to fill in the blanks in the given sentence: By the time we arrived, the concert__________ and the crowd__________ in the parking lot.

has ended , was gathering

had already ended, had gathered

ended, gather

was ending, gathered

Correct Answer

Option 2

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q19:

21 May Shift 2

Vocabulary > Phrasal Verbs

Medium

Fill in the blanks in the sentences in List-I with the Phrasal verbs in List-II: | List-I | List-II | |---|---| | (Sentences) | (Phrasal verbs) | | (A) We were all surprised to see Rahul because we had not expected him to _____ at the party. | (i) get across | | (B) I am really exhausted. I think I'll _______. | (II) turn up | | (C) In spite of being so lucid, sometimes he fails to clearly ______ his ideas. | (III) gets around | | (D) Any news of celebrities ___ very fast. | (IV) turn in | Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

(A) - (II), (B) - (IV), (C) - (I), (D) - (III)

(A) - (I), (B) - (II), (C) - (III), (D) - (IV)

(A) - (IV), (B) - (II), (C) - (I), (D) - (III)

(A) - (III), (B) - (I), (C) - (IV), (D) - (II)

Correct Answer

Option 1

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q20:

21 May Shift 2

VA > Rearrangement

Medium

Rearrange the given parts to form a meaningful sentence: (A) in eclectic mediums reflecting the growing mastery of (B) a sense of an invasive and turbulent past (C) sculptors who evoked surreal imagery and projected (D) displayed at the art gallery were innovative art pieces Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

(D), (B), (C), (A)

(A), (D), (C), (B)

(D), (A), (C), (B)

(B), (C), (D), (A)

Correct Answer

Option 3

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q21:

21 May Shift 2

Vocabulary > Word Usage

Medium

Fill in the blank with the most suitable word from the given options: It would be _______ to refuse such a generous offer.

chivalrous

chary

churlish

coquettish

Correct Answer

Option 3

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q22:

21 May Shift 2

Vocabulary > Antonyms

Medium

Fill in the blank in the given sentence with the most appropriate antonym of the word erratic : Her ___________behavior during the meeting sprang a surprise on everyone.

ephemeral

intermittent

consistent

supple

Correct Answer

Option 3

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q23:

21 May Shift 2

VA > Rearrangement

Medium

Rearrange the given parts to form a meaningful sentence: (A) practical demonstration clarified their doubts (B) in great detail, the students struggled to grasp (C) although the professor explained the complex theories (D) the underlying concepts until the Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

(B), (C), (D), (A)

(C), (A), (B), (D)

(B), (A), (D), (C)

(C), (B), (D), (A)

Correct Answer

Option 4

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q24:

21 May Shift 2

Vocabulary > Word Usage

Medium

Select the appropriate word to fill in the blank in the following sentence: The city was under__________ for almost seven months.

truce

siege

ambush

explosion

Correct Answer

Option 2

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q25:

21 May Shift 2

Vocabulary > Antonyms

Medium

Choose the correct antonym of the word Prodigal from the options given below:

Spendthrift

Parsimonious

Extravagant

Profligate

Correct Answer

Option 1

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q26:

21 May Shift 2

VA > Rearrangement

Medium

Rearrange the given parts to form a meaningful sentence: (A) a perfect image often leads to mental health (B) challenges and unrealistic expectations (C) rise to powerful influencers, the pressure to maintain (D) while social media platforms have given Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

(D), (C), (A), (B)

(B), (D), (C), (A)

(B), (A), (D), (C)

(C), (B), (D), (A)

Correct Answer

Option 1

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q27:

21 May Shift 2

Vocabulary > Word Usage

Medium

Fill in the blanks in the given sentences in List-I with the appropriate words from List-II : | List-I | List-II | |---|---| | (Sentences) | (words) | | (A) Gifted in prophecy, he had ______ that wizard who lived in the city of Pylos. | (i) foment | | (B) The agitator's fiery speech was seen as an attempt to ______ strife and hatred among the crowd. | (II) forbear | | (C) In times of great adversity, it is wise to _______ anger and respond with patience instead. | (III) ferment | | (D) The grape juice was left to _______ for several days to produce a rich and flavorful wine. | (IV) forebear | Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

(A) - (II), (B) - (III), (C) - (IV), (D) - (I)

(A) - (IV), (B) - (I), (C) - (II), (D) - (III)

(A) - (I), (B) - (II), (C) - (IV), (D) - (III)

(A) - (II), (B) - (IV), (C) - (I), (D) - (III)

Correct Answer

Option 2

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q28:

21 May Shift 2

Vocabulary > Synonyms

Easy

Identify the word closest in meaning to the underlined word: An <u>inglorious</u> chapter in human history

disgraceful

unforgivable

mediocre

provocative

Correct Answer

Option 1

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q29:

21 May Shift 2

Vocabulary > Synonyms

Medium

Select the word that is closest in meaning to the underlined word: A <u>munificent</u> gesture.

ambiguous

peevish

reverent

liberal

Correct Answer

Option 4

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q30:

21 May Shift 2

Vocabulary > Antonyms

Easy

Select the word opposite in meaning to the word: Innocuous

Benign

Offensive

Protective

Unconcerned

Correct Answer

Option 2

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q31:

21 May Shift 2

Vocabulary > Antonyms

Medium

Identify the word that is opposite in meaning to the word Prolix :

Defiant

Silent

Loquacious

Succinct

Correct Answer

Option 4

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q32:

21 May Shift 2

VA > Rearrangement

Medium

Rearrange the given parts to form a meaningful sentence: (A) on a positive purpose, can serve as a powerful driving force, (B) to achieve ambitious goals that once seemed unattainable (C) aggression, when channelled constructively and focused (D) urging us to overcome hurdles, and persist through adversity Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

(C), (B), (D), (A)

(C), (B), (A), (D)

(B), (A), (C), (D)

(C), (A), (D), (B)

Correct Answer

Option 4

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q33:

21 May Shift 2

Vocabulary > Word Usage

Medium

Match the words in List-I with their meanings in List-II: | List-I | List-II | |---|---| | (Words) | (Meanings) | | (A) Euphemism | (I) a phrase that combines two words that seem to be the opposite of each other | | (B) Oxymoron | (II) a less offensive phrase used to substitute something unpleasant | | (C) Epilogue | (III)happening, done or published after a person has died | | (D) Posthumous | (IV) the close of a narrative or dramatic poem | Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

(A) - (IV), (B) - (I), (C) - (II), (D) - (III)

(A) - (II), (B) - (III), (C) - (I), (D) - (IV)

(A) - (III), (B) - (II), (C) - (IV), (D) - (I)

(A) - (II), (B) - (I), (C) - (IV), (D) - (III)

Correct Answer

Option 4

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q34:

21 May Shift 2

VA > Rearrangement

Medium

Rearrange the given parts to form a meaningful sentence: (A) detect meals hidden beneath snow or vegetation (B) on the ground or short posts to hunt for prey (C) snowy owls, native to the Arctic tundra, perch (D) and use their excellent eyesight and keen hearing to Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

(C), (B), (A), (D)

(C), (B), (D), (A)

(C), (A), (D), (B)

(C), (A), (B), (D)

Correct Answer

Option 2

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q35:

21 May Shift 2

Vocabulary > Word Usage

Medium

Fill in the blank with the correct word from the given options: Rohit was a ______opponent, and I respected him for that.

formidable

dreadful

forbidding

indulgent

Correct Answer

Option 1

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q36:

21 May Shift 2

Vocabulary > Word Usage

Medium

Choose the appropriate word to fill in the blank: The ________ weather conditions put a spanner in the onward hike of the mountaineering team.

pleasant

feeble

inclement

favourable

Correct Answer

Option 3

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q37:

21 May Shift 2

Vocabulary > Synonyms

Easy

Identify the word that is closest in meaning to the word Retract :

Recover

Regain

Recede

Avenge

Correct Answer

Option 3

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q38:

21 May Shift 2

Vocabulary > Word Usage

Medium

Fill in the blanks in the sentences in List-I with the appropriate homonyms from List-II : | List-I | List-II | |---|---| | (Sentences) | (Homonyms) | | (A) One should not______ the orders of one's superiors. | (i) current | | (B) During the medieval times, people would often ______ the ruling kings. | (II) currant | | (C) The top brass of the company were worried by the _______anti-management sentiments of the employees. | (III) deify | | (D) I am very fond of _____ buns and deserts. | (IV) defy | Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

(A) - (II), (B) - (IV), (C) - (III), (D) - (IV)

(A) - (III), (B) - (II), (C) - (I), (D) - (IV)

(A) - (IV), (B) - (III), (C) - (I), (D) - (II)

(A) - (II), (B) - (IV), (C) - (I), (D) - (III)

Correct Answer

Option 3

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q39:

21 May Shift 2

Vocabulary > Word Usage

Easy

Fill in the blank by choosing the correct word from the given options: Some of our cities are full of_____________ looking for work and a better life.

mendicants

hermits

migrants

anarchists

Correct Answer

Option 3

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q40:

21 May Shift 2

Vocabulary > Word Usage

Medium

Fill in the blank with the correct word from the options given below: A person who constantly thinks he is sick, is a ________ .

Misogynist

Misanthrope

Hyperpituitary

Hypochondriac

Correct Answer

Option 4

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q41:

21 May Shift 2

Vocabulary > Phrasal Verbs

Medium

Replace the underlined verbs in List-I with a phrasal verb with the same meaning in List-II : | List-I | List-II | |---|---| | (Sentences with underlined verbs) | (Phrasal verbs) | | (A) I just can't <u>overcome</u> the feeling that someone is watching me. | (i) pick up | | (B) All the people I work with seem to have <u>caught</u> the flu. | (ii) wear off | | (C) Once I'd had the injection, the pain started to <u>gradually disappear</u>. | (III) gone down with | | (D) As the breeze started to <u>get stronger</u>, we set off for the cottage. | (IV) shake off | Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

(A) - (IV), (B) - (III), (C) - (II), (D) - (I)

(A) - (I), (B) - (II), (C) - (III), (D) - (IV)

(A) - (I), (B) - (II), (C) - (IV), (D) - (III)

(A) - (III), (B) - (IV), (C) - (I), (D) - (II)

Correct Answer

Option 1

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q42:

21 May Shift 2

Vocabulary > Antonyms

Medium

Choose the word opposite in meaning to the word-- Acrimonious.

Bitter

Resolute

Vague

Amicable

Correct Answer

Option 4

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q43:

21 May Shift 2

VA > Grammar

Medium

Fill the blanks in the sentences in List-I with the appropriate prepositions from List-II: | List-I | List-II | |---|---| | (Sentences) | (Prepositions) | | (A) The bridge was built ______the river. | (I) against | | (B) He is waiting for me ______the road. | (II) over | | (C) He is distributing sweets ______his friends. | (III) across | | (D) Do not lean______the wall. | (IV) among | Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

(A) - (II), (B) - (III), (C) - (IV), (D) - (I)

(A) - (IV), (B) - (III), (C) - (II), (D) - (I)

(A) - (IV), (B) - (III), (C) - (I), (D) - (II)

(A) - (II), (B) - (I), (C) - (IV), (D) - (III)

Correct Answer

Option 1

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q44:

21 May Shift 2

VA > Rearrangement

Medium

Rearrange the given parts to form a meaningful sentence: (A) a delicate verse in nature's never-ending song (B) the wind, like a wandering poet, stirred (C) across the cobblestone streets, each one (D) the autumn leaves, scattering them Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

(B), (A), (C), (D)

(B), (D), (C), (A)

(A), (D), (C), (B)

(C), (A), (B), (D)

Correct Answer

Option 2

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q45:

21 May Shift 2

Vocabulary > Word Usage

Medium

Fill in the blanks in the given sentences in List-I with the appropriate words from List-II : | List-I | List-II | |---|---| | (Sentences) | (Words) | | (A) His _________efforts to help the community were recognized by everyone. | (i) laudatory | | (B) She has a refined ___________for good wine. | (II) palette | | (C) The review was full of _________comments about the author's writing style. | (III) laudable | | (D) The artist's ___________was filled with vibrant hues. | (IV) palate | Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

(A) - (II), (B) - (IV), (C) - (I), (D) - (III)

(A) - (III), (B) - (II), (C) - (I), (D) - (IV)

(A) - (I), (B) - (II), (C) - (IV), (D) - (III)

(A) - (III), (B) - (IV), (C) - (I), (D) - (II)

Correct Answer

Option 4

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q46:

21 May Shift 2

VA > Grammar

Medium

Match the sentences in List-I with the figures of speech in List-II : | List-I | List-II | |---|---| | (Sentences) | (Figures of speech) | | (A) The stars danced in the sky | (I) Hyperbole | | (B) She sells seashells | (II) Personification | | (C) I could eat a horse | (III) Metaphor | | (D) Life is a roller coaster | (IV) Alliteration | Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

(A) - (I), (B) - (IV), (C) - (II), (D) - (III)

(A) - (II), (B) - (IV), (C) - (I), (D) - (III)

(A) - (I), (B) - (II), (C) - (IV), (D) - (III)

(A) - (III), (B) - (IV), (C) - (I), (D) - (II)

Correct Answer

Option 2

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q47:

21 May Shift 2

Vocabulary > Antonyms

Medium

Choose the word opposite in meaning to the word-- Esoteric

Obscure

Cryptic

Reckless

Straightforward

Correct Answer

Option 4

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q48:

21 May Shift 2

Vocabulary > Idioms

Medium

Match the idioms in List-I with their meanings in List-II: | List-I | List-II | |---|---| | (Idioms) | (Meanings) | | (A) wear one's heart on one's sleeve | (I) attack an opponent in a bold and direct fashion | | (B) to sell someone down the river | (II) to talk boastfully or irresponsibly | | (C) talk through one's head | (III) be completely frank and hide nothing from others | | (D) to take the bull by horns | (IV) to betray someone | Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

(A) - (III), (B) - (IV), (C) - (II), (D) - (I)

(A) - (III), (B) - (I), (C) - (II), (D) - (IV)

(A) - (I), (B) - (IV), (C) - (II), (D) - (III)

(A) - (IV), (B) - (III), (C) - (II), (D) - (I)

Correct Answer

Option 1

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q49:

21 May Shift 2

Vocabulary > Synonyms

Medium

Choose the word similar in meaning to the word--Recalcitrant

Amenable

Compliant

Defiant

Rational

Correct Answer

Option 3

Correct Answer

Explanation →

Q50:

21 May Shift 2

VA > Rearrangement

Medium

Rearrange the given parts to form a meaningful sentence: (A) the central argument or purpose of a piece of writing (B) a strong and effective thesis statement is a (C) guiding readers and setting the tone for the content (D) condensation of one or two sentences that clearly conveys Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

(A), (D), (C), (B)

(C), (B), (A), (D)

(B), (D), (A), (C)

(D), (B), (C), (A)

Correct Answer

Option 3

Correct Answer

Explanation →

CUET English 2025 21 May Shift 2 - Past Year Questions

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