SSC Exam Quiz: General English!

An aquarium is a tank specifically designed to house fish or water plants. It provides a controlled environment for aquatic life, allowing them to thrive and be observed. An aviary is an enclosure for birds, not suitable for fish or water plants. A nursery is a place where young plants or children are cared for, not specifically for aquatic life. A sanatorium is a medical facility for long-term illness treatment, not related to fish or water plants. Therefore, the correct answer is aquarium.

An optimist is someone who looks at the bright side of things. They tend to have a positive outlook on life and believe that things will turn out well. They focus on the good aspects of a situation rather than dwelling on the negative. This positive mindset can help them overcome challenges and find happiness in even the most difficult circumstances.

Bureaucracy refers to a form of government where officials, who are appointed rather than elected, hold the power. This system is characterized by a hierarchical structure, with decision-making and administration being carried out by the officials. The term "bureaucracy" is derived from the word "bureau," which refers to a desk or office, highlighting the emphasis on administrative processes and procedures. Unlike other options, such as plutocracy (rule by the wealthy), aristocracy (rule by the nobility), or monarchy (rule by a monarch), bureaucracy focuses on the role of officials in governing.

A centenarian is someone who lives for more than a hundred years. This term specifically refers to individuals who have reached the age of 100 or older. Therefore, out of the given options, centenarian is the only one that fits the description of living for more than a hundred years.

A seismograph is an instrument specifically designed to record earth's tremors or seismic activity. It is used to detect and measure the intensity, duration, and frequency of earthquakes and other seismic events. This instrument consists of a pendulum or a mass attached to a stationary base, which remains relatively still during normal conditions. However, when an earthquake occurs, the ground shakes, causing the base to move while the pendulum or mass remains stationary due to inertia. This movement is recorded on a rotating drum or electronic device, providing valuable data for studying and understanding earthquakes.

A volunteer is someone who offers their services without expecting any payment in return. They willingly give their time and effort to help others or contribute to a cause. This is different from a philanderer, who is someone who engages in casual sexual relationships, a mercenary, who is a soldier hired to fight for a foreign country, and a missionary, who is someone who spreads religious beliefs.

Biology is the correct answer because it is the scientific study of living organisms. It encompasses various fields such as botany, zoology, microbiology, and genetics, among others. Biology explores the structure, function, growth, evolution, and distribution of living organisms, as well as their interactions with the environment. It is a broad discipline that helps us understand the complexity and diversity of life on Earth.

An auditor is the correct answer because they are responsible for conducting official examinations of accounts. They review financial records, statements, and documents to ensure accuracy and compliance with regulations. Auditors play a crucial role in identifying any discrepancies or errors in financial reporting, providing assurance to stakeholders and helping maintain transparency and accountability in organizations.

Pyrotechnics is the correct answer because it refers to the art of making fireworks. This field involves the design, production, and display of fireworks, which are used for entertainment purposes, celebrations, and special events. Pyrotechnics combines chemistry, physics, and engineering to create visually stunning and colorful displays of light, sound, and smoke. It requires knowledge of different chemical compounds and their reactions to produce the desired effects. Overall, pyrotechnics is the specific term related to the creation and display of fireworks, making it the most appropriate answer in this context.

A patent grants the sole right to make and sell a specific invention to its owner. It is a legal protection that provides exclusive rights to the inventor for a limited period of time. This allows the inventor to prevent others from using, making, or selling their invention without their permission. Therefore, a patent is the correct answer as it aligns with the given explanation.

A mirage is an optical phenomenon where objects appear to be displaced or distorted, often resembling the appearance of water. This occurs due to the bending of light rays as they pass through layers of air with different temperatures, causing the image to appear shifted or distorted. Mirages are commonly observed in desert regions, where the temperature gradient between the hot ground and cooler air above creates the conditions for this illusion to occur.

An infallible person is someone who never makes a mistake. This means that they are always right and can be relied upon to make accurate judgments or decisions. They have a flawless track record and are considered to be extremely reliable and trustworthy.

The word "economical" means using resources efficiently and avoiding unnecessary waste. This aligns with the concept of avoiding wastage mentioned in the question. Therefore, "economical" is the correct answer as it best describes the action of avoiding wastage in a cost-effective manner.

A small waterfall or group of waterfalls flowing down a rocky hillside is called a cascade. Cascades typically have a gentle and continuous flow of water, creating a beautiful and serene sight. The term "cascade" is often used to describe waterfalls that are smaller in size compared to larger and more powerful waterfalls. It is a common feature in mountainous and rocky terrains, adding to the scenic beauty of the landscape.

A rhinologist is a medical specialist who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and disorders related to the nose. They have extensive knowledge and expertise in conditions such as sinusitis, nasal polyps, allergies, and nasal deformities. By focusing on nose diseases, a rhinologist can provide specialized care and treatment options to patients who are experiencing nasal problems.

Polyandry is the correct answer because it refers to the practice of a woman having more than one husband at the same time. This is in contrast to polygyny, which is the practice of a man having more than one wife at the same time. Polygamy is a broader term that encompasses both polyandry and polygyny, while polyphony refers to a style of music with multiple independent voices or melodies.

A meritocracy is a system of government where individuals with high intellectual ability are chosen to govern. In this system, positions of power and authority are given to those who have demonstrated exceptional skills, knowledge, and competence, rather than being based on wealth, social status, or birthright. The concept of meritocracy emphasizes the importance of merit and talent in the selection and advancement of individuals in society, promoting fairness and equal opportunities for all.

Effervesce means to give off bubbles of gas. This word accurately describes the process of a substance releasing gas in the form of bubbles. Therefore, effervesce is the correct answer.

A cataclysm refers to a sudden and violent change or upheaval. It typically describes a large-scale event or disaster that causes widespread destruction or significant societal impact. This term is often used to describe natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, or volcanic eruptions, but it can also be used metaphorically to describe any sudden and dramatic change or upheaval in various contexts.

A harangue refers to a noisy and bombastic speech addressed to a large assembly. It implies a forceful and aggressive style of speaking, often used to criticize or persuade. In this context, harangue is the most suitable word to describe the given description of a speech. Rhetoric refers to the art of effective or persuasive speaking, but it does not necessarily imply noise or bombast. Cacophony refers to a harsh or discordant mixture of sounds, which does not accurately describe a speech. Oration refers to a formal and eloquent speech, but it does not convey the sense of noise or bombast.