The National Defence Academy (NDA) and Combined Defence Services (CDS) exams are prestigious gateways for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Armed Forces. The English section of these exams plays a crucial role in assessing the candidates’ proficiency in language skills. One significant aspect of this section is the topic of Commonly Used Words. This article explores the importance of mastering commonly used words for the NDA & CDS 2 2024 exams, highlighting why a solid understanding of vocabulary and contextual usage is essential for success.
Understanding Commonly Used Words
Commonly used words refer to the vocabulary that appears frequently in everyday communication, literature, and academic texts. These words are essential for effective communication and comprehension. In the context of the NDA and CDS exams, commonly used words encompass a range of vocabulary that candidates are expected to understand and use correctly in various contexts.
Directions: In the following items, there are two sentences S1 and S2, based on commonly used word(s), which are underlined. Read the two sentences carefully and mark the response that denotes the correct use of these words in each of the two sentences and mark your response on the Answer Sheet accordingly.
Q) S1: I have purchased a cloth for my shirt.
S2: I have given all my cloths for drycleaning.
(a)S1 is right and S2 is wrong
(b)S1 is wrong and S2 is right
(c) Both S1 and S2 are wrong
(d) Both S1 and S2 are right
Ans. (a)
Q) S1: Although I was in pain, I was conscience.
S2: I have a clear conscience – I didn’t do anything wrong.
(a)S1 is right and S2 is wrong
(b)S1 is wrong and S2 is right
(c) Both S1 and S2 are wrong
(d) Both S1 and S2 are right
Ans. (b)
Q) S1: He was nominated to the Counsel of State.
S2: The teacher gave valued council to all her students.
(a)S1 is right and S2 is wrong
(b)S1 is wrong and S2 is right
(c) Both S1 and S2 are wrong
(d) Both S1 and S2 are right
Ans. (c)
Q) S1: I am fond of black currant ice-creams.
S2: What is the current news?
(a)S1 is right and S2 is wrong
(b)S1 is wrong and S2 is right
(c) Both S1 and S2 are wrong
(d) Both S1 and S2 are right
Ans. (d)
Q) S1: He sited the example of bravery of Maharana Pratap.
S2: In my opinion this site for the departmental store is perfect.
(a)S1 is right and S2 is wrong
(b)S1 is wrong and S2 is right
(c) Both S1 and S2 are wrong
(d) Both S1 and S2 are right
Ans. (b)
For more questions, check out NDA-CDS 2 2024 Exam English Live – Commonly Used Words – Class 2
Importance of Commonly Used Words in NDA & CDS Exams
1. High Frequency in Examination
Questions related to commonly used words are a staple in the English sections of the NDA and CDS exams. These questions test the candidate’s ability to recognize and appropriately use words that are prevalent in the English language, making vocabulary knowledge indispensable.
2. Foundation for Other Topics
A strong grasp of commonly used words forms the foundation for tackling other topics in the English section, such as reading comprehension, sentence completion, fill-in-the-blanks, and error detection. These topics often rely on the candidate’s familiarity with common vocabulary to answer questions accurately.
3. Enhanced Reading Comprehension
A robust vocabulary improves reading comprehension skills. Passages in the exam may contain complex sentences and ideas that are easier to understand if the candidate is familiar with commonly used words. This understanding aids in accurately interpreting and answering comprehension questions.
4. Effective Communication Skills
Proficiency in commonly used words is crucial for effective communication, both written and verbal. This skill is not only tested in the written exams but also in subsequent interviews and group discussions. Candidates who can articulate their thoughts clearly and accurately have a better chance of succeeding.
5. Accuracy in Error Detection
Knowledge of commonly used words helps in identifying and correcting errors in sentences. Many error detection questions involve misused or misplaced words. A strong vocabulary enables candidates to spot these errors and make the necessary corrections.
6. Success in Sentence Completion and Fill-in-the-Blanks
Sentence completion and fill-in-the-blank questions often require the candidate to choose the most appropriate word to complete a sentence. Familiarity with commonly used words makes it easier to identify the correct option, ensuring accuracy in these types of questions.
Tips for Mastering Commonly Used Words
- Regular Reading:
- Engage in regular reading of diverse materials such as books, newspapers, and articles to encounter new words and understand their usage in different contexts.
- Maintain a Vocabulary Journal:
- Keep a journal of new words, their meanings, synonyms, antonyms, and example sentences. Review and update this journal regularly.
- Use Flashcards:
- Create flashcards with words on one side and their meanings, synonyms, and antonyms on the other. Use these for quick revision and memory reinforcement.
- Practice with Mock Tests:
- Regularly practice with mock tests and past exam papers to familiarize yourself with the types of vocabulary questions asked in the exams.
- Engage in Conversations:
- Practice using new words in conversations to reinforce your understanding and improve your ability to use them contextually.
Conclusion
The importance of mastering commonly used words for the NDA & CDS 2 2024 exams cannot be overstated. A strong vocabulary is integral to performing well in the English section, as it underpins reading comprehension, error detection, sentence completion, and overall communication skills. Candidates should focus on expanding and refining their vocabulary through regular practice, reading, and usage. By doing so, they will be better equipped to tackle the vocabulary questions in the exams confidently and accurately, paving the way for success in their pursuit of a career in the Indian Armed Forces.
