Idioms and phrases are crucial components of the English language that add color and depth to both spoken and written communication. Understanding these expressions is especially important for aspirants preparing for competitive exams like the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Combined Defence Services (CDS), where language proficiency is tested through a variety of formats, including idioms and phrases. This article explores why mastery of idioms and phrases is essential for these exams and provides guidance on how to approach this topic effectively.
Directions: Each of the following questions has idioms/phrases. Choose the option that best describes the meaning of the idiom/phrase.
Q) On the cuff
(a)On credit
(b)Against his credit card
(c)In his bank account
(d)In his friend’s account
Ans. (a)
Q) To let the grass grow under one’s feet
(a) To miss the opportunity
(b) To let things go on in their natural way
(c) To be indolent and let others take advantage of one’s indolence
(d) To idle away the time to delay and linger
Ans. (d)
Q) Melting pot
(a)An earthen vessel
(b)A cooking utensil
(c)An iron cauldron
(d)circumstances in which things may change considerably
Ans. (d)
Q) To be a good Samaritan
(a) A religious person
(b) A genuinely charitable person
(c) To be obedient
(d) A citizen of Samaritan
Ans. (b)
Q) To fly off the handle
(a)To dislocate
(b)To lose one’s temper
(c)To take off
(d)To be airborne
Ans. (b)
Directions: In the following items, a sentence is given with a blank space that is required to be filled with a phrasal verb. Select the most appropriate response from the options provided and mark your response on the Answer Sheet accordingly.
Q) Karan ……. all information and then gave the note to his wife so that she could put it into a computer file.
(a)took on
(b)took down
(c)took over
(d)took in
Ans. (b)
Q) John asked his girl friend to ……. the music so that he could clearly hear the music they were listening to, in the car.
(a)turn over
(b)turn up
(c)turn in
(d)Turn into
Ans. (b)
Q) Kimi ……. her ill husband all day long.
(a)waited on
(b)waited in
(c) waited down
(d) Waited at
Ans. (a)
Q) Nita likes to ……. early on Saturdays.
(a)wake on
(b)wake up
(c) wake over
(d) Wake to
Ans. (b)
Q) Raju ……. his little brother all the time.
(a)watched out for
(b)watched out about
(c) watched out
(d) Watched out with
Ans. (a)
For more questions, check out NDA-CDS 2 2024 Exam English Live – Revision – Class 3
Significance of Idioms and Phrases in NDA & CDS Exams
- Enhances Comprehension and Communication:
- Idioms and phrases enrich the language and convey complex ideas succinctly. For candidates, being familiar with these expressions is not just about acing the English section; it also equips them with the language skills necessary for effective communication in their future roles as officers.
- Commonly Tested Topic:
- Idioms and phrases are a staple in the English sections of the NDA and CDS exams. Questions related to these are often included in the form of multiple-choice questions (MCQs), sentence completion, or comprehension passages. Candidates are expected to not only know the meanings but also apply them correctly in context.
- Vocabulary Enhancement:
- Learning idioms and phrases is an excellent way to expand one’s vocabulary. Many idioms use figurative language, which can help candidates think more creatively and articulate their thoughts more precisely. This linguistic agility is advantageous not only in the exams but also in subsequent military training and service.
- Improves Logical Reasoning:
- Understanding idioms and phrases requires interpreting figurative meanings, which hones critical thinking and reasoning skills. This capability is invaluable, as it allows candidates to better analyze and respond to a wide range of scenarios, both in examination settings and real-life situations.
- Cultural and Contextual Understanding:
- Idioms often reflect cultural nuances and societal values. Familiarity with these expressions allows candidates to gain insights into different cultures, which is particularly beneficial for officers who may serve in diverse environments and engage with people from various backgrounds.
Strategies to Master Idioms and Phrases
- Regular Practice:
- Consistency is key to mastering idioms and phrases. Daily practice, including reading, writing, and using these expressions in conversations, can significantly enhance retention and understanding.
- Use of Flashcards:
- Flashcards are an effective tool for memorizing idioms and their meanings. Candidates can create flashcards with the idiom on one side and its meaning and an example sentence on the other.
- Reading and Listening:
- Engaging with a variety of English language media, such as books, newspapers, podcasts, and movies, can expose candidates to idioms and phrases in different contexts. This exposure helps in understanding how these expressions are used naturally.
- Mock Tests and Quizzes:
- Participating in mock tests and quizzes that focus on idioms and phrases can help candidates assess their knowledge and identify areas for improvement. This practice also familiarizes them with the format and types of questions asked in the exams.
- Group Discussions and Role-Playing:
- Group discussions and role-playing activities provide opportunities for candidates to use idioms and phrases in interactive settings. This not only reinforces their learning but also builds confidence in using these expressions in real-life situations.
Conclusion
The importance of idioms and phrases in the NDA and CDS exams cannot be overstated. They are an integral part of the English language section and play a significant role in assessing a candidate’s language proficiency, comprehension skills, and cultural awareness. By incorporating regular practice, utilizing effective study tools, and engaging in immersive language activities, aspirants can master idioms and phrases, thereby enhancing their chances of success in the NDA and CDS 2 2024 exams and their future careers in the armed forces.
