Kristensmith Taylor

CBSE Class 8 English Chapter 29 Some Useful Phrases And Idioms

1. You know what phrases are. We will learn the correct usage of some very expressive phrases.

Idioms

An idiom can be defined as a number of words which, when taken together, have a different meaning from the individual meanings of each word.

Examples:

1. be at large
2. do someone proud
3. be at daggers drawn

The second simply means that you make someone proud of you.

Be at dagger’s drawn: It means great enmity, but it is not very clear.

• Here in 2, the form is correct, meaning is also clear.
• In 1, the form is clear, but the meaning is unclear.
• In 3, the form is irregular, meaning unclear.

In English, many words are used in pairs to give emphasis; sometimes they are similar, as in safe and sound, sometimes they add emphasis by contrast, as in tooth and nail.

1. The two children arrived safe and sound at their homes.
2. The neighbours fought tooth and nail over a parking place in their colony.

2. Learn some interesting combinations.

1. Might and main – with all strength
2. In black and white – in writing
3. Spick and span – very neat
4. Wear and tear – damage sustained as a result of ordinary use
5. Hard and fast – strict rules
6. Hale and hearty – very healthy
7. Hue and cry – loud protest
8. Fits and starts – doing work in bits, not continuously
9. Odds and ends – miscellaneous things
10. First and foremost – the most important point
11. Heart and soul – put all your efforts in some work
12. By leaps and bounds – at great speed
13. Rank and file – from the highest to the lowest
14. Head and shoulders – much above others in qualities and abilities
15. Ways and means – methods used

Exercise 1

Now, fill in the blanks with the pairs given to you above:

Question 1. The roads in Delhi are so bad that even the best cars cannot stand up to the ________ of driving on them.

Answer: The roads in Delhi are so bad that even the best cars cannot stand up to the strain of driving on them.

Question 2. He tried to find _________ to get over the dilemma he was facing.

Answer: He tried to find a way to get over the dilemma he was facing.

Question 3. Ramesh studies in _______ and cannot do well in the coming Board Exams.

Answer: Ramesh studies in fits and starts and cannot do well in the coming Board Exams.

Question 4. Sachin Tendulkar stands ________ above all the present cricketers.

Answer: Sachin Tendulkar stands head and shoulders above all the present cricketers.

Question 5. He wanted the agreement to be in _______ before he signed the project.

Answer: He wanted the agreement to be in writing before he signed the project.

Question 6. He put his ______ in the project and soon completed it.

Answer: He put his heart and soul in the project and soon completed it.

Question 7. Nalini is very house-proud, everything in her house is _____.

Answer: Nalini is very house-proud, everything in her house is spick and span.

Question 8. Even at the ripe old age of eighty, he is _______ and suffers from no ailments.

Answer: Even at the ripe old age of eight,y he is hale and hearty and suffers from no ailments.

Question 9. There was a great ________ raised by the opposition parties over the alarming rise in petroleum prices.

Answer: There was a great uproar raised by the opposition parties over the alarming rise in petroleum prices.

Question 10. Our _____ duty is to observe law and order in the country.

Answer: Our paramount duty is to observe law and order in the country.

Question 11. India has made progress by ________ in the communication sector.

Answer: India has made progress by leaps and bounds in the communication sector.

Question 12. There are no _______ to subdue the Rajputs.

Answer: There is no hard and fast to subdue the Rajputs.

Question 13. Akbar used all his ________ to subdue the Rajputs.

Answer: Akbar used all his might to subdue the Rajputs.

Question 14. The General was supported by ______ in achieving his aims.

Answer: The General was supported by hook or by crook in achieving his aims.

Question 15. Though he had completed his task, there were some ______ to be looked into.

Answer: Though he had completed his task, there were some loose ends to be looked into.

Exercise 2

Match the following idiomatic expressions with their meanings. One is done for you:

Answer:

Exercise 3

Here are some phrasal expressions. Match them with their meanings. (Take the help of the dictionary):

Answer:

Exercise 4

Explain briefly the following idiomatic expressions in the space given:

Question 1. Call off ____________

Answer: Call off

Meaning: To cancel an event or activity.

Example: “They called off the meeting due to bad weather.”

Question 2. To face the music ____________

Answer: To face the music

Meaning: To accept the consequences of one’s actions.

Example: “After failing the exam, he had to face the music at home.”

Question 3. To fight shy of ____________

Answer: To fight shy of

Meaning: To avoid or be reluctant to do something.

Example: “She fights shy of public speaking.”

Question 4. Call upon ____________

Answer: Call upon

Meaning: To formally ask someone to do something.

Example: “The teacher called upon the students to answer.”

Question 5. Pull through ____________

Answer: Pull through

Meaning: To recover from illness or overcome a difficult situation.

Example: “With proper care, he pulled through the illness.”

Question 6. To go to the dogs ____________

Answer: To go to the dogs

Meaning: To deteriorate or decline in quality.

Example: “The old park has gone to the dogs.”

Question 7. Fair-weather friends ____________

Answer: A fair-weather friend

Meaning: Someone who is only a friend in good times.

Example: “He disappeared when I needed help—a true fair-weather friend.”

Question 8. Too keep one’s fingers crossed ____________

Answer: To keep one’s fingers crossed

Meaning: To hope for good luck or success.

Example: “I’m keeping my fingers crossed for your interview.”

Question 9. Hold back ____________

Answer: Hold back

Meaning: To restrain or hesitate to act.

Example: “She held back her tears during the speech.”

Question 10. Tell upon ____________

Answer: Tell upon

Meaning: To have a noticeable effect (usually negative).

Example: “Stress began to tell upon his health.”

2. Learn Some More Useful Phrases And Idiomatic Expressions

1. Bad blood – unfriendliness or enmity between two people or families
2. Bad news travels fast– bad news spreads more quickly than good news
3. Come to a bad end – said about someone who leads an unhealthy life, and faces disgrace
4. Big deal – (terrific!) great! said when one is not impressed
5. A big mouth – someone who boasts, exaggerates
6. In a big way – on a large scale
7. A dead end – a road that doesn’t lead anywhere. A stage where no further progress can be made
8. Dead silence – a total, unbroken silence
9. Over my dead body – said when the speaker is very much against something
10. Good for nothing – lazy, unreliable, having no good qualities
11. Good riddance! – feeling of relief when one gets rid of an unpleasant person or something unwanted
12. Hard to please – a person who is very critical, has a very high standard
13. hard of hearing – partly deaf
14. A hard nut to crack- a difficult problem to overcome
15. High and dry – abandoned, ignored, isolated
16. In high places – friends or people in top-level positions
17. It’s high time – when something must be done without more delay
18. In the long run – over a long period
19. The long and short of it – essential facts of a matter
20. A chip off / of the old block – son or daughter who is very much like his or her father in character, in temperament
21. An old hand – someone with a lot of experience
22. A shortcut – qa uicker or easier way of going somewhere or doing things
23. A short notice – with little warning
24. As thick as thieves – very friendly, sharing same interests
25. Through thick and thin– through good times and difficult times
26. Vanish into the air– disappear without trace
27. At the end of one’s tether– a position where no more patience is left
28. At a loose end – having nothing to do
29. Make both ends meet– somehow manage with the meagre money one has
30. Sign on the dotted line – agree to do something without any conditions
31. Read between the lines – understand or sense more than the actual words
32. No laughing matter – something very serious
33. A matter of time – bound to happen, sooner or later
34. To give someone a piece of one’s mind – to scold or reprimand someone
35. Make up one’s mind – take a decision
36. Out of sight, out of mind – people or things that cannot be seen or are far away, are soon forgotten
37. Go one’s own way – act independently
38. In a word – briefly
39. Word for word – literally
40. Out of this world – wonderful
41. On top of the world – very happy
42. All and sundry – everybody
43. Believe it or not – it is true, whether you believe or you disbelieve it
44. Cut it out! – stop it!
45. Play it by the ear – act according to the situation
46. Like it or lump it – whether you like it or not, accept the situation
47. Rub it in – continue to emphasise something
48. Run for it – run fast to get out of danger
49. Too good to be true – so good, one can hardly believe it
50. A blessing in disguise – a mishap that turns out to be fortunate in the end
51. Child’s play – easy task
52. A drop in the ocean – a small amount
53. A jack of all trades – a person capable of doing many things but not great expert in anything.
54. At a stone’s throw – very near, at a short distance
55. A hole and comer business – very secretive, dishonest dealing
56. A wet blanket – a person who spoils a jolly atmosphere

3. Idiomatic Pairs

Learn about some common pairs in English language.

1. Alive and kicking – well and active
2. Bom and bred – bom and brought up
3. Cut and dried– settled, decided
4. Fair and square – in a fair way
5. Rough and ready – only approximate, not exact
6. Short and sweet – without unnecessary details
7. Sick and tired – thoroughly bored or annoyed
8. Give and take – compromise
9. By hook or by crook – by any method, fair or unfair
10. Lock, stock, and barrel – everything, every item
11. Without rhyme or reason – illogical, not making sense
12. Part and parcel – part of something
13. Aches and pains – health complaints
14. Hammer and tongs – argue, quarrel loudly
15. Ifs and buts – excuses
16. The ins and outs – intricate details, difficult to explain
17. Man to man – openly and sincerely
18. Stuff and nonsense – foolish talk, ideas
19. Touch and go – critical, close to both success and failure
20. As and when – whenever
21. Far and wide – everywhere
22. By and large – taken as a whole
23. More or less – roughly, practically
24. To and fro – one way and then the other, up and down
25. Up and about – recovered, in good health
26. Loud and clear – very clearly
27. Chop and change – change one’s mind, opinions, plans
28. Do or die – make the greatest effort or fail
29. Forgive and forget – be reconciled, forget enmity
30. Wait and watch – wait patiently
31. Through and through – thoroughly, completely
32. On and on – continue without stopping
33. By and by – in the course of time
34. Toss and turn – sleep restlessly, because of worry
35. Over and over – repeatedly
36. Blow by blow – to give an account of something, including all the details, events in order
37. Live and let live – to be tolerant towards others
38. Again and again – repeatedly
39. From door to door – going to all the houses in the streets
40. Round and round – moving in circles, spinning
41. Hit and miss – not exact, random, sometimes good and sometimes bad
42. Pick and choose – to take time and trouble to choose very selectively
43. Sink or swim – survive or face
44. Little by little – gradually, at a slow rate
45. Step by step – one step at a time, slowly

Exercise 5

Study the idioms in the box, then complete the sentences given below correctly:

Question 1. They all disliked their new neighbour who had caused _____ between the two communities living peacefully in the village.

Answer: They all disliked their new neighbour who had caused bad blood between the two communities living peacefully in the village.

Question 2. The old sarpanch was _____ in dealing with property disputes and soon settled the mattter.

Answer: The old sarpanch was an old hand in dealing with property disputes and soon settled the mattter.

Question 3. Ramesh stood by his friend ______ and was always there to help.

Answer: Ramesh stood by his friend through thick and thin and was always there to help.

Question 4. The announcement that there will be a further rise in petrol prices was received by the workers in ____________.

Answer: The announcement that there will be a further rise in petrol prices was received by the workers in dead silence.

Question 5. He left his family _______ on the road to face the problem of a broken axle, and left for his office in a taxi.

Answer: He left his family high and dry on the road to face the problem of a broken axle, and left for his office in a taxi.

Question 6. He thought it was a _______ to win awards in competition.

Answer: He thought it was a child’s play to win awards in competition.

Question 7. To their utter surprise, it was their ________ son who won fame in the field of sports.

Answer: To their utter surprise, it was their good for nothing son who won fame in the field of sports.

Question 8. The people are really terrified by the experiment to be made on 11th September, it’s ______ for them.

Answer: The people are really terrified by the experiment to be made on 11th September, it’s no laughing matter for them.

Question 9. He replied briefly, in fact ______which meant “Leave.”

Answer: He replied briefly, in fact in a word which meant “Leave.”

Question 10. “Do not panic, Rani, watch the audience, just _______ and you will succeed,” said the director of the play.

Answer: “Do not panic, Rani, watch the audience, just play it by ear and you will succeed,” said the director of the play.

Exercise 6

Fill in the blanks with a single word for each of the following words given in brackets. take the help of the words in the box.

Question 1. The _____ were small and he was unhappy (the money workmen get for work)

Answer: The wages were small, and he was unhappy (the money workmen get for work)

Question 2. An _______ of plague broke out in the town after the earthquake (a disease which is widespread at the same time, same place among many people)

Answer: An epidemic of plague broke out in the town after the earthquake (a disease which is widespread at the same time, same place among many people)

Question 3. He never made the mistake of underrating his _______ and was successful in beating them in every game (persons against whom one fights, struggles, plays games, or argues)

Answer: He never made the mistake of underrating his opponents and was successful in beating them in every game (persons against whom one fights, struggles, plays games, or argues)

Question 4. After a long ________, the bill was passed by the Lok Sabha. (discussion at a public meeting or in parliament)

Answer: After a long debate, the bill was passed by the Lok Sabha. (discussion at a public meeting or in parliament)

Question 5. India has made great progress in the last _______ (a period of ten years)

Answer: India has made great progress in the last decade (a period of ten years)

Exercise 7

Make your own sentences of the following expressions :

Question 1. On And On

Answer: On And On – The Speaker Kept Talking On And On Without Taking A Break.

Question 2. By And by

Answer: By And By – By And By, She Began To Understand The True Meaning Of Friendship.

Question 3. Up And About

Answer: Up And About – After A Week Of Illness, He Was Finally Up And About Again.

Question 4. More Or Less

Answer: More Or Less – I’ve Finished My Homework, More Or Less.

Question 5. Touch And Go

Answer: Touch And Go – It Was Touch And Go Whether The Patient Would Survive The Night.

CBSE Class 8 English Chapter 28 Spellings

1. Incorrect spelling of words creates a very poor impression. Reading carefully improves your spellings, pronouncing them correctly also helps. There are many ways of improving your spellings.

1. (e)s ending

(1) Words ending in s, ss, ch, x, sh, z, o, add es.

Examples: lens – lenses

• fox – foxes
• go – goes
• kiss – kisses
• splash – splashes
• watch- watches
• buzz- buzzes

(2) Nouns ending in vowel + O, double O’s end in s.

Examples: piano – pianos

• kangaroo – kangaroos
• stereo – stereos

2. Nouns ending in fife drop f/fe and add ves.

Examples: knife – knives

handkerchief – handkerchieves

3. Y ending

• Words ending in a consonant y, drop y and add les, ied, ler, lest, ily.
• Words ending in a consonant + y add, and ing.
• Words ending in vowel + y add s, ed, ing, er, est.

Example: copy- copies – copied

• grey – greyer- greyest
• happy- happiest – happily
• enjoy – enjoys – enjoying

4. Words ending in ie, change ie to y before ing.

Example: le – lying

tie – tying

5. Words ending in e, drop e and add ing, ed, er, est.

Examples: save – saving; saved

large – larger, largest

6. Adjectives ending in e add ly to form their adverbs.

Example: sore – sorely

7. Words of one syllable ending in a single vowel + single consonant, double the consonant before the suffix.

Examples: beg- beggar, run- running, sad – saddest.

8. Words of more than one syllable ending in a single vowel + single consonant double the final consonant if the last syllable is stressed.

Examples: begin – beginning,

permit – permitted

9. The consonant l is doubled even if it is not stressed.

Examples: travel – traveller

quarrel – quarrelled

10. An i before an e except after a c.

Examples: believe, relieve

deceive, receipt

Exercise 1

Complete the word by putting in the missing words:

1. B_ _untif_ _
2. Ma_ _yi_ _
3. Change_ _ _ _
4. Liv_ _g
5. Courage _ _s
6. Sk_ _ _f_l
7. Conc_ _ve
8. S_ _ze
9. Engage_ _ _t
10. Occu_ _ed

Answer:

1. Beautiful
2. Marrying
3. Changeable
4. Living
5. Courageous
6. Skillful
7. Conceive
8. Seize
9. Engagement
10. Occupied

Exercise 2

Tick the correct spelling and write in the blank space:

Question 1. Seperate, Saparate, separate ___________

Answer: Separate ✓

Question 2. Arithmetic, Arithmatic, Arethmatic ___________

Answer: Arithmetic ✓

Question 3. Confidense, Confidance, Confidence ___________

Answer: Confidence ✓

Question 4. Tution, Tuition, Tusion ___________

Answer: Tuition ✓

Question 5. Beging, Beginning, Bigining _________

Answer: Beginning ✓

Question 6. Que, Queue, Queeeu ___________

Answer: Queue ✓

Question 7. Machinery, Machinary, Mechinery _________

Answer: Machinery ✓

Question 8. Marriage, Merrege, Merryige ________

Answer: Marriage ✓

Question 9. Begar, Begger, Beggar _________

Answer: Beggar ✓

Question 10. Truely, Truly, Truelly __________

Answer: Truly ✓

Exercise 3

Complete the following by filling in the missing words. One is done for you:

1. Judge Judging Judgement

Question 1. Ar_ _ _ , Argu_ _g,  Argu_n_

Answer: Argue, Arguing, Argument

Question 2. Hum_ _r,  Hummo_ _ _s,  Humor_ _t

Answer: Humor, Humorous, Humorout

Question 3. Fulfil, Ful_ _ _ _ed,  Ful_i_ _ _n_

Answer: Fulfill, Fulfilled, Fulfillment

Question 4. Re_ _ _,  Refer _ _ _g,  Re _ _ _en_ _

Answer: Refer, Referring, Reference

Question 5. _ _ _form,  Per_ _ _m_ _g,  Per _ _ _m_ _c_

Answer: Perform, Performing, Performance

Question 6. Occur,  Oc_ _ _ _e_ , Occ_ _ _e_ _e

Answer: Occur, Occurred, Occurrence

Exercise 4

Find at least five new words, with the help of the dictionary, for each of the groups given below:

Group 1: Words ending in ar, er, and re.

1. ar similar _________________
2. er prayer __________________
3. or tailor __________________
4. re centre __________________

Answer:

GROUP 1: Words ending in -ar, -er, or, -re

1. -ar:

1. Solar
2. Lunar
3. Regular
4. Similar
5. Peculiar

2. -er:

1. Teacher
2. Baker
3. Runner
4. Prayer
5. Observer

3. -or:

1. Doctor
2. Actor
3. Tailor
4. Editor
5. Conductor

4. -re:

1. Theatre
2. Metre
3. Fibre
4. Centre
5. Sabre

Group 2: Words ending in al, el, or le.

1. al equal _________________
2. el label _________________
3. le angel _________________

Answer:

GROUP 2: Words ending in -al, -el, -le

1. -al:

1. Local
2. Royal
3. Equal
4. Fatal
5. Floral

2. -el:

1. Label
2. Channel
3. Parcel
4. Novel
5. Tunnel

3. -le:

1. Table
2. Angle
3. Circle
4. Puzzle
5. Sample

Group 3: Words ending in ur, ure, eur, our.

1. ur murmur _________________
2. ure manure _________________
3. eur grandeur _________________
4. our harbour _________________

Answer:

GROUP 3: Words ending in -ur, -ure, -our

1. -ur:

1. Murmur
2. Sulfur (us)/sulphur (uk)
3. Blur
4. Slur
5. Occur

2. -ure:

1. Manure
2. Figure
3. Fracture
4. Moisture
5. Signature

3. -our (British English):

1. Harbour
2. Behaviour
3. Colour
4. Flavour
5. Labour

Group 4: Words ending in ry, ary, ery, ory.

1. ry country _________________
2. ary February _________________
3. ery nursery _________________
4. ory history _________________

Answer:

GROUP 4: Words ending in -ry, -ary, -ery, -ory

1. -ry:

1. Country
2. Victory
3. Pantry
4. Poetry
5. Injury

2. -ary:

1. February
2. Library
3. Dictionary
4. Temporary
5. Revolutionary

3. -ery:

1. Nursery
2. Bakery
3. Gallery
4. Machinery
5. Robbery

4. -ory:

1. History
2. Factory
3. Territory
4. Inventory
5. Mandatory

Group 5: Words ending in ant, ent, ient.

1. ant assistant _________________
2. ent serpent _________________
3. ient ancient _________________

Answer:

GROUP 5: Words ending in -ant, -ent, -ient

1. -ant:

1. Assistant
2. Elegant
3. Distant
4. Relevant
5. Vibrant

2. -ent:

1. Serpent
2. Student
3. Different
4. Confident
5. Innocent

3. -ient:

1. Ancient
2. Efficient
3. Sufficient
4. Patient
5. Convenient

Group 6. Words ending in ance, ence, ense.

1. ance entrance _________________
2. ent sentence _________________
3. ense nonsense _________________

Answer:

GROUP 6: Words ending in -ance, -ence, -ense

1. -ance:

1. Entrance
2. Importance
3. Distance
4. Balance
5. Performance

2. -ence:

1. Sentence
2. Difference
3. Reference
4. Evidence
5. Silence

3. -ense:

1. Nonsense
2. Defense (us)/defence (uk)
3. Expense
4. Intense
5. Suspense

Group 7. Words ending in able, ible.

1. able valuable _________________
2. ible horrible _________________

Answer:

GROUP 7: Words ending in -able, -ible

1. -able:

1. Valuable
2. Comfortable
3. Reasonable
4. Reliable
5. Remarkable

2. -ible:

1. Horrible
2. Possible
3. Flexible
4. Terrible
5. Visible

Group 8. Words ending in city or sity.

1. city joyous _________________
2. ious anxious _________________

Answer:

GROUP 8: Words ending in -city, -sity

1. -city:

1. Scarcity
2. Velocity
3. Simplicity
4. Electricity
5. Authenticity

2. -sity:

1. University
2. Diversity
3. Curiosity
4. Intensity
5. Necessity

Group 9. Words ending in -ous, -ious.

1. ous joyous _________________
2. ious anxious _________________

Answer:

GROUP 9: Words ending in -ous, -ious

1. -ous:

1. Joyous
2. Famous
3. Dangerous
4. Enormous
5. Fabulous

2. -ious:

1. Anxious
2. Delicious
3. Religious
4. Mysterious
5. Ambitious

Group 10. Words ending in -cial, -tial.

1. ous joyous _________________
2. ious anxious _________________

Answer:

GROUP 10: Words ending in -cial, -tial

1. -cial:

1. Special
2. Official
3. Social
4. Commercial
5. Financial

2. -tial:

1. Essential
2. Potential
3. Residential
4. Influential
5. Confidential

Group 11. Words ending in -tion, -sion.

1. tion action _________________
2. sion decision _________________

Answer:

GROUP 11: Words ending in -tion, -sion

1. -tion:

1. Action
2. Nation
3. Station
4. Education
5. Information

2. -sion:

1. Decision
2. Vision
3. Division
4. Explosion
5. Conclusion

CBSE Class 8 English Chapter 27 Word Power

1. One-Word For A Croup Of Words

Exercise 1

Give one word for the following. One is done for you:

Answer:

2. Synonyms

Exercise 2

Underline the word that is not a synonym and does not match the rest.

Question 1. Curious, inquisitive, sensitive, prying

Answer: Curious, inquisitive, sensitive, prying

Question 2. Border, margin, edge, circle

Answer: Border, margin, edge, circle

Question 3. Attract, offend, charm, fascinate

Answer: Attract, offend, charm, fascinate

Question 4. Attempt, distract, try, endeavour

Answer: Attempt, distract, try, endeavour

Question 5. Excellent, depressed, downcast, dejected

Answer: Excellent, depressed, downcast, dejected

Question 6. Delay, hurry, lag, loiter

Answer: Delay, hurry, lag, loiter

Question 7. First, final, ultimate, last

Answer: First, final, ultimate, last

Question 8. Rebellion, revolution, revolt, revenge

Answer: Rebellion, revolution, revolt, revenge

Question 9. Lawful, legal, immoral, legitimate

Answer: Lawful, legal, immoral, legitimate

Question 10. Make, form, shape, same

Answer: Make, form, shape, same

Question 11. Ruthless, sympathy, compassion, pity

Answer: Ruthless, sympathy, compassion, pity

Question 12. Plan, design, project, plastic

Answer: Plan, design, project, plastic

Question 13. Weak, stout, tough, sturdy

Answer: Weak, stout, tough, sturdy

Question 14. Stupid, dull, dense, bright

Answer: Stupid, dull, dense, bright

Question 15. Sufficient, meagre, enough, adequate

Answer: Sufficient, meagre, enough, adequate

Question 16. Catch, throw, toss, hurl

Answer: Catch, throw, toss, hurl

Question 17. Healthy, robust, hale, unwell

Answer: Healthy, robust, hale, unwell

Question 18. Agony, misery, distress, gaiety

Answer: Agony, misery, distress, gaiety

Question 19. Mirth, laughter, glee, sober

Answer: Mirth, laughter, glee, sober

Question 20. Impel, force, spur, obstruct

Answer: Impel, force, spur, obstruct

3. Antonyms

Exercise 3

Give two Antonyms for each of the following words:

Question 1. Dull _________

Answer: Dull – Sharp, Bright

Question 2. Bold _________

Answer: Bold – Timid, Cowardly

Question 3. Strict _________

Answer: Strict – Lenient, Flexible

Question 4. End _________

Answer: End – Begin, Start

Question 5. Physical _________

Answer: Physical – Mental, Spiritual

Question 6. Inferior _________

Answer: Inferior – Superior, Better

Question 7. Friendship _________

Answer: Friendship- Enmity, Rivalry

Question 8. Condemn _________

Answer: Condemn- Praise, Approve

Question 9. Accept _________

Answer: Accept- Reject, Decline

Question 10. Above _________

Answer: Above – Below, Under

Exercise 4

Group the following verbs as synonyms under the heading encourage and synonyms under the heading discourage:

dishearten, check, persuade, induce, incite, coax, deter, cajole, disapprove, criticise

Answer:

Here is the grouped list of verbs under the headings “Encourage” and “Discourage”:

Encourage 

1. Persuade
2. Induce
3. Incite
4. Coax
5. Cajole

Discourage

1. Dishearten
2. Check
3. Deter
4. Disapprove
5. Criticise

4. New words are made by adding prefixes and suffixes.

Most commonly used prefixes are:

Remember: Prefixes are added at the beginning of the word.

Exercise 5

Choose from the box above and make a new word:

Answer:

Exercise 6

Form new words by using the prefix dis or mis:

Question 1. ________ doing.

Answer: Misdoing (wrongdoing)

Question 2. ________ connnect

Answer: Disconnect

Question 3. ________ continue

Answer: Discontinue

Question 4. ________ direct

Answer: Misdirect

Question 5. ________ fortune

Answer: Misfortune

Question 6. ________ comfort

Answer: Discomfort

Question 7. ________ arrange

Answer: Disarrange

Question 8. _________ believe

Answer: Disbelieve

Question 9. _________ deed

Answer: Misdeed

Question 10. _________ order

Answer: Disorder

5. Suffixes are words added after the word. The most used suffixes are.

Exercise 7

With the help of the box, make new words by adding suffixes:

Answer:

Exercise 8

Make compound words by matching words in Column A with those in Column B. One is done for you:

Answer:

Exercise 9

Fill in the blanks with the correct word from the box:

Question 1. Every taxi has a _______ which records the distance travelled.

Answer: Every taxi has a meter which records the distance travelled.

Question 2. Shoes made of ______ are not very durable.

Answer: Shoes made of canvas are not very durable.

Question 3. Success of your business depends on the ______ you have chosen for it.

Answer: Success of your business depends on the site you have chosen for it.

Question 4. He did not announce the ______ of this film.

Answer: He did not announce the cast of this film.

Question 5. The beautiful grass was covered with ________ left behind after a party.

Answer: The beautiful grass was covered with litter left behind after a party.

Question 6. Our constitution does not allow any discrimination on grounds of faith or _______.

Answer: Our constitution does not allow any discrimination on grounds of faith or caste.

Question 7. I cannot wear a sari which is less than six _________.

Answer: I cannot wear a sari which is less than six meter.

Question 8. He could _______ many examples to support his argument.

Answer: He could cite many examples to support his argument.

Question 9. She has worked hard to ________ votes for her favourite political party.

Answer: She has worked hard to canvas votes for her favourite political party.

Question 10. I buy a _______ of milk every day.

Answer: I buy a liter of milk every day.

CBSE Class 8 English Chapter 12 Adverbs

1. You already know that Adverbs add something to the meaning of a verb, an adjective or another adverb.

Examples:

He can run fast, (adds to the meaning of a verb)

He is a very fast runner, (adds to the meaning of an adjective)

He can run quite fast, (adds to the meaning of an adverb)

2. Kinds of Adverbs :

Adverbs of Manner: carefully, gladly, merrily, etc.

Adverbs of Place: here, there, yonder, etc.

Adverbs of Time: today, yesterday, now, then, 6 P.M., etc.

Adverbs of Degree: only, extremely, very, etc.

Adverbs of Frequency: seldom, rarely, frequently, etc.

3. How some Adverbs are formed

4. Remember all words ending in ly are not Adverbs of Manner. They are Adjectives also.

Examples:

1. The manager was wearing a very ugly tie.
2. The elderly soldier gave sound advice to the new recruit.

Some other words : lively, lonely, lovely, silly.

5. There are some words which can be either adjectives or adverbs. It depends how they are used in a sentence.

1. Ramu got up early and went for a walk. (Adverb)
2. My mother is an early riser. (Adjective)

He is a fast runner. (Adjective)

He can run very fast. (Adverb)

Some other words: best, better, free hand, last, weekly, wide, wrong, etc.

6. Look at the following pairs of words :

1. last-lastly
2. wrong-wrongly
3. wide-widely
4. late-lately
5. near-nearly
6. hard-hardly

They are two forms of Adverbs but have different meanings.

Examples:

1. I was breathing hard after I finished the race. (with difficulty)
2. I hardly visit them. (scarcely)
   1. He stood last in the class. (after all the others)
   2. Lastly, I recommend this book because of its beautiful illustrations. (finally)

Exercise 1

Form Adverbs from the following Adjectives:

Question 1. Dreadful ______________

Answer: Dreadfully

Question 2. Wonderful___________

Answer: Wonderfully

Question 3. Coward____________

Answer: Cowardly

Question 4. Free______________

Answer: Freely

Question 5. Lone_____________

Answer: Lonely

Question 6. Happy___________

Answer: Happily

Question 7. Scarce_________

Answer: Scarcely

Question 8. Logical___________

Answer: Logically

Question 9. Dramatic_________

Answer: Dramatically

Question 10. Casual____________

Answer: Casually

Exercise 2

Write the opposites of the following Adverbs

Question 1. Legally______________

Answer: Illegally

Question 2. Gratefully__________

Answer: Ungratefully

Question 3. Successfully___________

Answer: Unsuccessfully

Question 4. Regularly__________

Answer: Irregularly

Question 5. Politely____________

Answer: Impolitely

Question 6. Agreeably___________

Answer: Disagreeably

Question 7. Possibly________

Answer: Impossibly

Question 8. Honestly_________

Answer: Dishonestly

Exercise 3

Choose the right wordfrom the brackets to complete the sentences given below:

Question 1. He has not___________(full/fully) recovered from his illness yet.

Answer: He has not fully ecovered from his illness yet.

Question 2. The tensions are running very ___________ (high/highly) in the district and may lead to violence.

Answer: The tensions are running very high in the district and may lead to violence.

Question 3. It was not quite__________ (easy/easily) to walk through the jungle. But they __________found their target.

Answer: It was not quite easy to walk through the jungle. But they found their target.

Question 4. I had ____________ (hardly/hard) talked to them before and found it very to start a conversation.

Answer: I had hardly talked to them before and found it very to start a conversation.

Question 5. We began our journey_________ (short/shortly) and reached Mysore on time.

Answer: We began our journey shortly and reached Mysore on time.

Question 6. He was______(nearly/near) blinded by his tears.

Answer: He was nearly blinded by his tears.

Question 7. The child cried________ (bitter/bitterly) when he was not taken to the circus.

Answer: The child cried bitterly when he was not taken to the circus.

Question 8. He shouted______(angry/angrily) at his subordinates for not completing the work on time.

Answer: He shouted angrily at his subordinates for not completing the work on time.

Question 9. You can meet the Chairman and speak to him ________ (directly/direct) about your complaints.

Answer: You can meet the Chairman and speak to him directly about your complaints.

Question 10. His friend’s behaviour_________ (terrible/terribly) upsets him.

Answer: His friend’s behaviour terribly upsets him.

7. How to use certain Adverbs.

So — Such

Examples:

The book was so amusing.

Her talk was so interesting.

This is such an amusing book.

She is such an interesting talker.

Remember

1. With so we use an Adjective.
so amusing, so interesting, so gladly, so loudly, so politely.

2. With such we use a noun.
Such an amusing book.
Such an interesting talker.

3. We can also use so – that and such – that

She was so angry that she hit him hard.

It was such an interesting book that I couldn’t put it down.

Exercise 4

Complete the following sentences by using so, such, that, or such…. that:

Question 1. His voice was_______powerful.

Answer: His voice was so powerful.

Question 2. Her lecture was________ dull that everyone left the hall quietly.

Answer: Her lecture was so dull that everyone left the hall quietly.

Question 3. It was_________ an interesting movie _______ it broke all box office records.

Answer: It was such an interesting movie that it broke all box office records.

Question 4. It was________terrible to watch the river rising.

Answer: It was so terrible to watch the river rising.

Question 5. _______was her plight ________everyone rushed to help her.

Answer: Such was her plight that everyone rushed to help her.

Question 6. Are you always________ emotional.

Answer: Are you always so emotional

Question 7. Why are you in_________ a hurry?

Answer: Why are you in such a hurry?

Question 8. The food was______ delicious, we kept asking for more.

Answer: The food was so delicious, we kept asking for more.

Question 9. It was__________ a shock to hear about Jasmit’s death.

Answer: It was such a shock to hear about Jasmit’s death.

Question 10. The whole village was__________ happy to hear about his success.

Answer: The whole village was so happy to hear about his success.

8. Quite – rather

This shop is quite crowded today.

This shop is very crowded today.

Very means there are more people than quite which has less. Quite also means completely, For Example.

This rumour is quite true.

Remember

Quite is used as a favourable comment.

Rather is used when you want to make an unfavourable comment.

Examples : He is rather silly in his behaviour.

Rather is also used with the Comparative Degree.

It is rather colder today than yesterday.

Quite is used before a/an and Rather used after a/an.

Examples:

1. It was quite a dull book.
2. It was a rather cold day.

Exercise 5

Fill in the blanks with quite or rather

Question 1. I know Harish is a_________dull person.

Answer: I know Harish is a rather dull person.

Question 2. I found it_______a curious situation.

Answer: I found it quite a curious situation.

Question 3. Didn’t you find the plot of ‘Singh is King’ a__________stupid one?

Answer: Didn’t you find the plot of ‘Singh is King’ a rather stupid one?

Question 4. No, people found it_________an amusing plot.

Answer: No, people found it quite an amusing plot.

Question 5. Those people seem to have a_________ peculiar taste.

Answer: Those people seem to have a rather peculiar taste.

9. Fairly – Too

Fairly is another adverb used like quite to express a favourable comment.

She is fairly good at singing.

She is a fairly good swimmer.

You have already learnt in previous class how to use too and enough.

Too means excess of some kind more than what is proper.

Examples: It is too good to be true.

He is too proud to be liked by his peers.

Enough is used in the positive sense and means sufficient.

Examples: He is strong enough to deal with any problem.

He has enough money to cope with any situation

Exercise 6

Fill in the blanks with quite, rather, fairly, too or enough :

Question 1. He was__________ short to be selected for the basketball team.

Answer: He was too short to be selected for the basketball team.

Question 2. It was__________ decent of him to help us at this time.

Answer: It was quite decent of him to help us at this time.

Question 3. I would______go to a circus than watch this stupid movie.

Answer: I would rather go to a circus than watch this stupid movie.

Question 4. This house is ___________ small for our family but __________ big for my bachelor friend.

Answer: This house is too small for our family but quite big for my bachelor friend.

Question 5. You do not eat ________to be healthy and strong.

Answer: You do not eat enough to be healthy and strong.

Question 6. It was __________ obvious that he was__________ weak to be selected as a member of the boxing team.

Answer: It was quite obvious that he was too weak to be selected as a member of the boxing team.

Question 7. Sushil Kumar proved ________ good for his opponent and defeated him.

Answer: Sushil Kumar proved too good for his opponent and defeated him.

Question 8. He is rich ________ but he is _________ stingy to part with his money.

Answer: He is rich enough but he is too stingy to part with his money.

Question 9. He was__________ upset at his rude behaviour.

Answer: He was rather upset at his rude behaviour.

Question 10. I find this boy _________ irresponsible and would___________ not make him a monitor.

Answer: I find this boy quite irresponsible and would rather not make him a monitor.

10. Comparison Of Adverbs

You have leamt already that Adverbs have also three Degrees of Comparison.

Examples:

Exercise 7

Fill in the blanks with correct  form of Adverbs:

Question 1. The ______ (long) we had to wait for the tickets; _________(impatient) we became.

Answer: The longer we had to wait for the tickets; the more impatient we became.

Question 2. The _________(small) the house, the _________ (low) is the rent for it.

Answer: The smaller the house, the lower is the rent for it.

Question 3. He drove _______ and _______ (faster) and his ______ expensive car helped him to reach his destination on time.

Answer: He drove faster and faster and his more expensive car helped him to reach his destination on time.

Question 4. The weather was getting _______ and we knew we hadn’t faced the ______ yet. (bed)

Answer: The weather was getting worse and we knew we hadn’t faced the worst yet.

Question 5. The ______ (rash) you drive, the _________ (great) is the risk of an accident.

Answer: The more rashly you drive, the greater is the risk of an accident.

Question 6. The kite flew ______ and ____ (high) in the sky and became invisible.

Answer: The kite flew higher and higher in the sky and became invisible.

Question 7. She is ________ than any other runner in the team (fast) and can beat ________ (strong) in any group.

Answer: She is faster than any other runner in the team and can beat the strongest in any group.

Question 8. The ______ you cry, the _______ notice will be taken of you. (much, little).

Answer: The more you cry, the less notice will be taken of you. (much, little).

Question 9. He lived in a house which was _______ from the market. (far)

Answer: He lived in a house which was far from the market.

Question 10. He drove _________ and completed the race without any mishap, (much/careful).

Answer: He drove carefully and completed the race without any mishap.

11. Position Of Adverb

It is important to know where adverbs should be placed in a sentence. Adverbs can be placed in the beginning, in the middle or in the end.

Example: Obviously she will never play again.

1. Adverbs of Manner (How)? : They can be used like the above sentence.

Examples: Easily, he is the best runner in the Indian Team.

He is easily the best runner in the Indian Team.

He can beat any runner in the Indian Team easily.

2. Adverbs of Place (Where)?: Usually they come after the verb.

Examples: He lives in a city.

He was mshed to the hospital.

3. Adverb of Time (When)?They come usually after Adverbs of Place.

Examples: I go to school every day.

I have been living in Mumbai since 1980.

4. Sometimes Adverbs of Time are placed in the beginning also.

Examples: Tomorrow he will leave for Dubai.

Every evening my brother rings me up.

5. If there are more than one adverb in a sentence, then the order is manner

6. If there are more than one time adverbs, then we place the more specific time before the more general one.

Example: I was bom at 7 a.m. on Monday, March 24, 1982.

7. Adverbs of Frequency (after, before, often, seldom, never, ever, usually, etc) are placed after the auxiliary verb but before the main verb.

Examples: He is often late.

She always comes late.

She was never late.

She never comes late.

8. Adverbs of Degree (completely, totally, extremely, very, etc.) go before the adjective or adverb they describe.

Examples: She is absolutely helpless in dealing with her son.

I have quite finished my maths.

She nearly lost her possessions.

9. If the verbs consist of more than one word, the adverbs are placed after the first verb.

Examples: She was absolutely thrilled with her brother’s performance.

The party has always supported him.

Exercise 8

Complete the sentences by putting the Adverbs (given in the brackets) in the right position. One is done for you:

Question 1. I have lived in Nainital _________ (among) the locals ________ (peacefully) all my life.

Answer:

I have lived peacefully all my life among the locals in Nainital.

Question 2. Pandit Jasraj holds concerts __________ (often, successfully, abroad).

Answer: Pandit Jasraj holds concerts successfully.

Question 3. I am certain you will be successful _________ (in life, absolutely, very).

Answer: I am certain you will be successful in life.

Question 4. The injured were taken to a safe place ________ (immediately/seriously/luckily).

Answer: The injured were taken to a safe place immediately.

Question 5. We saw _________ (suddenly/on the road/an accident/yesterday).

Answer: We saw an accident on the road suddenly yesterday.

Question 6. This bank ________ (strangely/on Rakshabandhan day/till one p.m.).

Answer: This bank is strangely open on Rakshabandhan day till one p.m.

Question 7. I met her __________ (last night/unexpectedly/at the party).

Answer: I met her unexpectedly at the partly last night.

Question 8. I take my dinner _________ (8 p.m./always/everyday).

Answer: I always take my dinner at 8 p.m every day.

Question 9. Traffic is ________ (usually/at this hour/very heavy).

Answer: Traffic is usually very heavy at this hour.

Question 10. Vanita __________ (hardly/strangely/lost her temper).

Answer: Vanita hardly lost her temper.

Exercise 9

Change the underlined phrases with single words chosen from the box:

Question 1. She looked in all places for her lost keys.

Answer: Everywhere

Question 2. You will hear from her in a short time.

Answer: Soon

Question 3. All of a sudden, the stranger took out his revolver and fired at him.

Answer: Suddenly

Question 4. Now and then I have letters from my sister.

Answer: Sometimes

Question 5. She shouted in an angrv manner.

Answer: Angrilly

Question 6. Please come here without delay.

Answer: Immediately

Question 7. Diwali is celebrated once a year.

Answer: Annually

Question 8. The train arrived at the fixed time.

Answer: Punctually

Question 9. Can you explain your plan in a few words?

Answer: Briefly?

Question 10. Where is your mother living at the present time?

Answer: Now?

CBSE Class 8 English Chapter 11 Active and Passive Voice

1. Study the following chart.

Note:

1. When no comparison is made, it is said to be in the Positive degree.
   Sujata is a clever girl.
2. When two persons or things of the same class are compared, we use the Comparative Degree. The Comparative Degree is generally followed by the Conjunction than.
   • She is wiser than her sister.
   • Comparative Degree can sometimes be used without than.
   • She is wiser of the two girls.
   • The poor fellow had seen happier days.
3. When more than two persons or things of the same class are compared, it is said to be in the Superlative Degree.
   • Akbar was the greatest king.

Note:

The Superlative Degree is preceded by the and followed by of, as :

Sheila is the cleverest of all the girls.

But we can also say :

Sheila is the cleverest girl

The Comparative Degree

2. We form Comparatives by adding er or more.

Examples: Big – bigger

Deep – deeper

Beautiful – more beautiful

Comfortable – more comfortable

Note: Adjectives which are bigger, are of more than two syllables, form the Comparative by adding the word more.

3. Some Adjectives form their

Comparatives in an irregular way.

Examples:

Good – better

Little – less

Bad – worse

Much – more

Many – more

Exercise 1

Complete the sentences using the Comparative form:-

Question 1. I have seen many tall buildings, but the buildings in New York are _____________.

Answer: I have seen many tall buildings, but the buildings in New York are taller.

Question 2. The flight over the mountains was rather short. I had expected it __________.

Answer: The flight over the mountains was rather short. I had expected it to be longer.

Question 3. Please give me some sugar. I like my coffee to be __________.

Answer: Please give me some sugar. I like my coffee to be sweeter.

Question 4. Don’t walk so slowly. I know you can ________.

Answer: Don’t walk so slowly. I know you can walk faster.

Question 5. We went to the next room to find some quiet place but it ____________.

Answer: We went to the next room to find some quiet place, but it was noisier.

Question 6. You have no experience of doing this work. We want someone ___________.

Answer: You have no experience of doing this work. We want someone more experienced.

Question 7. Raman was rejected because he was only 18. The company wanted someone __________.

Answer: Raman was rejected because he was only 18. The company wanted someone older.

Question 8. This movie is awful. Let us watch ___________.

Answer: This movie is awful. Let us watch a better one.

Question 9. We missed the train. We should have ____________.

Answer: We missed the train. We should have left earlier.

Question 10. He was already feeling bad about his behaviour at the party. His friends’ comments made him ____________.

Answer: He was already feeling bad about his behaviour at the party. His friends’ comments made him feel worse.

Exercise 2

Use much, better, a lot, a little, a bit in the following sentences to turn them to Comparative degrees:

Question 1. The old woman was very tired; she requested us to walk__________ slowly.

Answer: The old woman was very tired; she requested us to walk a little slowly.

Question 2. It is_________ to eat at home than in a restaurant.

Answer: It is much better to eat at home than in a restaurant.

Question 3. He had made _________ of effort to make his party a ___________.

Answer: He had made a lot of effort to make his party a bit.

Question 4. Ashok is______ than me and can resist any infection.

Answer: Ashok is much than me and can resist any infection.

Question 5. If you had been _________ more careful, the accident would not have taken place.

Answer: If you had been a little more careful, the accident would not have taken place.

Question 6. He was too proud to bend even________ and make _______ friends in his neighborhood.

Answer: He was too proud to bend even a bit and make a lot friends in his neighborhood.

Exercise 3

Read the biodata of two girls given below. Then complete the blanks in the passage given below using the Comparative Degree:

Fill in the blanks in the suitable Comparative forms :

Arushi and Mansi study in the same school and class. Mansi is(1)________ (old) than Arushi by one year. She is (2)____________ (short) in height but is(3)__________ (weight) than Arushi. Mansi is (4)____________ (smart) than Arushi who is(5)__________(attractive). Arushi is(6)__________ (good) in studies than Mansi, who is an average student. Arushi is(7)_________(good) in English and Maths, but Mansi scores(8)____ (much) in Science. The difference in their hobbies is (9)__________(big) as Arushi loves swimming and reading, whereas Mansi loves singing and dancing(10)___________ (much) than anything else.

Answer:

Arushi and Mansi study in the same school and class. Mansi is Older than Arushi by one year. She is Shorter in height but is Heavier than Arushi. Mansi is Smarter than Arushi, who is more attractive. Arushi is Better in studies than Mansi, who is an average student. Arushi is Better in English and Maths, but Mansi scores much more in Science. The difference in their hobbies is bigger as Arushi loves swimming and reading, whereas Mansi loves singing and dancing much more than anything else.

4. Study how Comparisons are made in some cases.

The faster you walk, the sooner you will reach the place.

The more he argued, the more angry I felt.

We use the – the with two comparatives when one thing is directly related to the other. (Rule the + Comparative ____________, the + Comparative)

Exercise 4

Question 1. Life is getting__________and _______________ (hard).

Answer: Life is getting harder and harder.

Question 2. The_________you start, the__________ you will finish the work, (soon)

Answer: The sooner you start, the sooner you will finish the work.

Question 3. The_____(rich) you are, the_________ (greedy) you become.

Answer: The richer you are, the greedier you become.

Question 4. The_________(high) you climb, ___________ (difficult) it becomes.

Answer: The higher you climb, more difficult it becomes.

Question 5. The__________(much) you work, the____________ (much) you achieve.

Answer: The more you work, the more you achieve.

Question 6. The__________(more) the prices, the______________ (less) are the buyers.

Answer: The higher the prices, the fewer are the buyers.

5. Special Note: We usually say: He is as poor as me. (Not that I)

He is poorer than me. (Not I)

He is poorer than I am.

He is as poor as I am.

Exercise 5

Rewrite the following sentences using

Question 1. It is hot today, but it was hotter yesterday.

Answer: Yesterday was not as hot as today.

Question 2. This is an interesting story, but the one I read yesterday was more interesting.

Answer: The story I read yesterday was not as interesting as this one.

Question 3. Dhoni could captain the team better than Dravid.

Answer: Dravid could not captain the team as well as Dhoni.

Question 4. I do not think Ishant Sharma can bowl better than Irfan Pathan.

Answer: I think Irfan Pathan can not bowl as well as Ishant Sharma.

Question 5. Delhi is a costlier city than Chennai.

Answer: Chennai is not as costly as Delhi.

6. The Superlative Degree

We usually form Superlatives by adding est or using most. Just as in Comparative degree, est is added to short words and most to longer words.

tall – tallest

beautiful- most beautiful

• One must use the before a Superlative, the best, the most beautiful.
• After Superlatives, we use in with places and of with periods of time.

Examples: Mukesh Ambani is the richest person in India.
Yesterday was the saddest day of my life.

Exercise 6

Complete the following sentences with Superlative degree

Question 1. Monday is___________ (busy) day of the week for us.

Answer: Monday is the busiest day of the week for us.

Question 2. Who is the___________________ (famous) novelist in the country?

Answer: Who is the the most famous novelist in the country?

Question 3. Of the three reports, yours was___________ (good) one.

Answer: Of the three reports, yours was the best one.

Question 4. This is__________(pretty) dress in the showroom.

Answer: This is the prettiest dress in the showroom.

Question 5. China is________(big) country in the world.

Answer: China is the biggest country in the world.

Question 6. My mother is__________ (graceful) lady I have ever seen.

Answer: My mother is the most graceful seen.

Question 7. Amita dresses_________ (good) in the class.

Answer: Amita dresses the best in the class.

Question 8. The new washing machine brought out by Samsung is_________ (economical) model in the market.

Answer: The new washing machine brought out by Samsung is the most economical model in the market.

Question 9. It is the best as it uses____________ (less) energy and saves your money.

Answer: It is the best as it uses the least energy and saves your money.

Question 10. The __________ (bad) floods of the century destroyed plants, animals, and buildings, besides killing thousands.

Answer: The worst floods of the century destroyed plants, animals, and buildings, besides killing thousands.

Exercise 7

Fill in the blanks with the Comparative or Superlative form of the words given in brackets

Question 1. The Mississippi is a large river, but the Amazon is_______ (large).

Answer: The Mississippi is a large river, but the Amazon is larger.

Question 2. The circus company had many strong men in their employees, but Suliman was __________ (strong).

Answer: The circus company had many strong men in their employees, but Suliman was the strongest.

Question 3. How is your brother today? Is he _______(good) now ?

Answer: How is your brother today? Is he better now?

Question 4. Of the two evils before him, he chose_________(little)

Answer: Of the two evils before him, he chose the lesser

Question 5. He thinks he is________(wise) than his parents which is_________(foolish) on his part.

Answer: He thinks he is wiser than his parents, which is the most foolish on his part.

Exercise 8

Fill in each blank with a Superlative. You can take the help of the adjectives given in the box

strong, great, common, serious, large

The sun is the (1)_______________ force on earth. But we are still not using the sun to the (2) _________ extent possible. Instead, fossil fuels are presently the (3)____________source of electricity. However, these fuels are also one of (4)___________ causes of air pollution. To use the force of the sun to the maximum, we need our most creative thinking and our (5)_____________efforts.

Answer:

The sun is the strongest force on Earth. But we are still not using the sun to the greatest extent possible. Instead, fossil fuels are presently the most common the source of electricity. However, these fuels are also one of the most serious causes of air pollution. To use the force of the sun to the maximum, we need our most creative thinking and our greatest efforts.

Exercise 9

Fill in the blanks with a Superlative in each of the following sentences:

Question 1. Who made the_____(early) spaceship?

Answer: Who made the earliest spaceship?

Question 2. Which country has the _________ (large) number of spaceships?

Answer: Which country has the largest number of spaceships?

Question 3. Which spaceship made the_____________(long) journey in space?

Answer: Which spaceship made the longest journey in space?

Question 4. Is a space module the _______ (easy) way to travel in space?

Answer: Is a space module the easiest way to travel in space?

Question 5. Isn’t space travel the __________ (cost) and not the _________(easy) way to travel?

Answer: Isn’t space travel the most costly, and not the easiest way to travel?

Exercise 10

Change the following sentences as directed: 

Question 1. Ashoka was one of the greatest kings (Change to Positive degree)

Answer:

Positive degree: Very few kings were as great as Ashoka.

Question 2. I have not eaten a more delicious cake.( Change to Superlative degree)

Answer: Superlative degree: This is the most delicious cake i have ever eaten.

Question 3. This is the oldest church in Spain. (Change to Comparative degree)

Answer: Comparative degree: This church is older the any other church in spain.

Question 4. No pop singer is more famous than Michael Jackson. (Change to Superlative degree)

Answer: Superlative degree: Michael Jackson is the most famous pop singer.

Question 5. No one is as lazy as Mohan in the class.(Change to Comparative degree)

Answer: Comparative degree: Mohan is lazier than any other student in the class.

Question 6. Hari and you are taller than me. (Change to Positive degree)

Answer: Positive degree: I am not as tall as Hari and you.

CBSE Class 8 English Chapter 10 Active And Passive Voice

1. Let us have a quick recapitulation by looking at the chart given below

2. Miscellaneous Examples

Study the above forms thoroughly.

Exercise 1

Turn the following present-tense sentences from Active to Passive Voice:

Question 1. Simon teaches children the art of watercolour painting.

Answer:

Active Voice: Simon teaches children the art of watercolour painting.

Passive Voice: Children are taught the art of watercolour painting by Simon.

Question 2. We have donated a variety of books to the library.

Answer:

Active Voice: We have donated a variety of books to the library.

Passive Voice: A variety of books have been donated to the library.

Question 3. The captain always encourages us to do our best.

Answer:

Active Voice: The captain always encourages us to do our best.

Passive Voice: We are always encouraged to do our best by the captain.

Question 4. What does the company charge as fee for this course?

Answer:

Active Voice: What does the company charge as fee for this course?

Passive Voice: What is charged as the fee for this course by the company?

Question 5. Has someone seen my new bag?

Answer:

Active Voice: Has someone seen my new bag?

Passive Voice: Has my new bag been seen.

Question 6. You must help the poor.

Answer:

Active Voice: You must help the poor.

Passive Voice: The poor must be helped.

Question 7. Everyone laughed at the poor beggar.

Answer:

Active Voice: Everyone laughed at the poor beggar.

Passive Voice: The poor beggar was laughted at by everyone.

Exercise 2

The following sentences are in the Past Tense, Active Voice. Turn them from Active to Passive Voice

Question 1. My mother knitted this cardigan for me.

Answer:

Active Voice: My mother knitted this cardigan for me.

Passive Voice: This cardigan was knitted for me by my mother.

Question 2. The villagers had lost all their possessions during the floods.

Answer:

Active Voice: The villagers had lost all their possessions during the floods.

Passive Voice: All their possessions had been lost by the villagers during the floods.

Question 3. Did you forget to post this letter yesterday?

Answer:

Active Voice: Did you forget to post this letter yesterday?

Passive Voice: Was this letter forgotten to be posted (by you) yesterday?

Question 4. The children were helping the teacher decorate the class.

Answer:

Active Voice: The children were helping the teacher in decorating the class.

Passive Voice: The teacher was being helped by the children in decorating the class.

Question 5. Did the police stop the strikers from doing damage to public property?

Answer:

Active Voice: Did the police stop the strikers from doing damage to public property?

Passive Voice: Were the strikers stopped by the public from doing damage to public property?

Question 6. Why did you frighten the horse?

Answer:

Active Voice: Why did you frighten the horse?

Passive Voice: Why was the horse frightened by you?

Question 7. Someone stole my suitcase from the railway compartment.

Answer:

Active Voice: Someone stole my suitcase from the railway compartment.

Passive Voice: My suitcase was stolen from the railway compartment by someone.

Question 8. He did not tell the members about the meeting on time.

Answer:

Active Voice: He did not tell the members about the meeting on time.

Passive Voice: The members were not told about the meeting on time by him.

Question 9. She asked me to shut the door and lock it properly.

Answer:

Active Voice: She asked me to shut the door and lock it properly.

Passive Voice: I was asked by her to shut the door and lock it properly.

Question 10. They believed that the experiment failed because of bad planning.

Answer:

Active Voice: They believed that the experiment failed because of bad planning.

Passive Voice: It was believed by them that the experiment failed because of bad planning.

Exercise 3

Fill in the blanks with the Passive form of the verbs in the Future Tense:

Question 1. The complete details of the tour __________ (explain) to you by the leader.

Answer: The complete details of the tour will be explained to you by the leader.

Question 2. A new high rise building___________ ( construct) by us.

Answer: A new high rise building will be constructed by us.

Question 3. When________ the date___________ (new election announce)?

Answer: When will date be announced (new election announce)?

Question 4. The hotel__________(provide) guests with breakfast free of charge.

Answer: The hotel will be provided guests with breakfast free of charge.

Question 5. Many improvements_________(made) in controlling traffic at peak time by next month.

Answer: Many improvements will be made in controlling traffic at peak time by next month.

Exercise 4

Put the verbs in brackets into the correct passive form:-

This week a new Mall (1)____________(open) in South Delhi. The Mall (2)_________(believe) to be the largest in Delhi and it (3) ________(hope) that it (4)_________ (visit) by over a lakh of people in a month. Unfortunately, it (5)_________ (not/finish) yet, but it (6)________ (complete) by the next month. The Mall includes twelve cine complexes, food courts, and every possible foreign brand in clothes, cosmetics, and furnishings. Every kind of facilities and security (7)___________(provide) and people can shop here in peace and comfort.

Answer:

1. will be opened
2. is believed
3. is hoped
4. will be visited
5. has not been finished
6. will be completed
7. will be provided

Exercise 5

Rewrite the following passage in the Passive Voice in the Past Tense:

The villagers witnessed a terrible train accident last night. The fire brigade fought the fire involving five bogies, while ambulances rescued the survivors. Ambulances took all the survivors to the hospital. No one knows yet the cause of the accident. The government has ordered a full investigation. Newspapers and TV reporters have already interviewed many of the survivors. They say that there must be some eyewitnesses. The police and the reporters are continuing the search.

Answer:

The villagers was witnessed a terrible train accident last night. The fire brigade was fought the fire involving five bogies, while ambulances were rescued the survivors. Ambulances were taken all the survivors to hospital. No one is not yet known yet the cause of the accident. The government has been ordered a full investigation. Newspapers and TV reporters have already been interviewed many of the survivors. It is said that there must be some eye witnesses. The police and the reporters is beeing continued the search.

Exercise 6

Rewrite the following passage in the passive form. (Future Tense)

The government is going to make an important announcement tomorrow. They will ban all cars from entering Delhi. They will enter according to their serial numbers. Cars ending in numbers 123 will not enter on Monday, 456 on Tuesdays, 678 on Wednesdays, and so on. This will help people, as pollution is seriously affecting their health. The government is making plans for a new environmental police force. After all, they must do something before it is too late.

Answer:

The government is going to will be made an important in the announcement tomorrow. They will be banned all cars from entering Delhi. They will be allowed according to their serial numbers. Cars ending in numbers 123 will not be permitted on Monday, 456 on Tuesdays, 678 on Wednesdays and so on. This will be helped people, as pollution is being seriously affected their health. The government are being made plans for a new environmental police force. After all they must be done something before it is too late.

3. Modals

Look at the following examples.

Examples:

1. Everyone should obey the laws of the country. (Active)

The laws of the country should be obeyed by everyone. (Passive)

2. Ramesh could have avoided the accident if he had been careful. (Active)

The accident could have been avoided by Ramesh if he had been careful. (Passive)

Exercise 7

Change the following sentences into the passive form according to the examples given:

Question 1. One must keep one’s promises.

Answer:

Active voice: One must keep one’s promises.

Passive voice: Promises must be kept.

Question 2. The police may have caught the culprit by now.

Answer:

Active voice: The police may have caught the culprit by now.

Passive voice: The culprit may have been caught by the police by now.

Question 3. You should do your duty come what may.

Answer:

Active voice: You should do your duty come what may.

Passive voice: your duty should be done come what may.

Question 4. Without sincere hard work, you cannot achieve success.

Answer:

Active voice: Without sincere hard work, you cannot achieve success.

Passive voice: Success cannot be achieved without sincere, hard work.

Question 5. You should have helped your brother when he needed it.

Answer:

Active voice: You should have helped your brother when he needed it.

Passive voice: Your brother should have been helped when he needed it.

Question 6. You ought to win this race, you have worked hard for it.

Answer:

Active voice: You ought to win this race, you have worked hard for it.

Passive voice: This race ought to be won by you; you have worked hard for it.

Question 7. You might disturb the whole system by what you are doing.

Answer:

Active voice: You might disturb the whole system by what you are doing.

Passive voice: The whole system might be disturbed by what you are doing.

Question 8. We may revise the pay scales shortly.

Answer:

Active voice: We may revise the pay scales shortly.

Passive voice: The pay scales may be revised shortly.

Question 9. We could hear the noise of the drums from a distance.

Answer:

Active voice: We could hear the noise of the drums from a distance.

Passive voice: The noise of the drums could be heard from a distance.

Question 10. Why couldn’t you complete the building in the stipulated time?

Answer:

Active voice: Why couldn’t you complete the building in the stipulated time?

Passive voice: Why couldn’t the building be completed in stipulated time?

4. Command Sentences

Active – Go away!

Passive – You should be gone.

Active – Do this work now.

Passive – This work should be done now.

Active – Do not neglect anyone.

Passive – Let no one be neglected.

Active – Help the poor.

Passive – Let the poor be helped.

Exercise 8

Change the following from Active into Passive

Question 1. Shut the door.

Answer: Let the door be shut.

Question 2. Do not tell him anything about our new plan.

Answer: Let nothing be told to him about our new plan.

Question 3. Spare no efforts in completing this assignment.

Answer: Let no efforts be spared in completing this assignment.

Question 4. Clear all the dues by the end of this week.

Answer: Let all the dues be cleared by the end of this week.

Question 5. Don’t move.

Answer: Let nothing be moved.

5. Use Of Let

Exercise 9

Use Let at the beginning of each of the sentences given in Exercise 8 above

Example:

Question 1. ____ us shut the door.

Answer: Let us shut the door

Question 2. ___________

Answer: Let us not tell him anything about our new plan.

Question 3. ___________

Answer: Let us spare no effort in completing this assignment.

Question 4. ____________

Answer: Let us clear all the dues by the end of this week.

Question 5. ____________

Answer: Let us not move.

6. Sometimes, Commands Are Expressed In The Passive In Another Way

Examples: Please don’t make a noise.

You are requested not to make a noise.

Exercise 10

Change the following sentences into Passive form with the help of the words given in the box. One is done for you:

requested, ordered, expected, believed, advised, warned, hoped

Question 1. Keep off the grass.

Answer:

You are requested to keep off the grass.

Question 2. Do not pluck flowers.

Answer: You are advised not to pluck flowers.

Question 3. Do not trespass or you will be prosecuted.

Answer: You are warned not to trespass, or you will be prosecuted.

Question 4. All guests should be in their seats by five o’clock.

Answer: All guests are expected to be in their seats by five O’clock.

Question 5. All members must follow the new rules.

Answer: All members are ordered to follow the new rules.

Question 6. Everyone expected Akhil Singh to win a medal at the Beijing Olympics.

Answer: Akhil Singh was expected to win a medal at the Beijing Olympics.

Question 7. They hope to find a cure for this disease soon.

Answer: A cure for this disease is hoped to be found soon.

Question 8. Some still believe that Subhash Chandra Bose did not die in the air crash.

Answer: It is still believed by some that Subhash Chandra Bose did not die in the air crash.

Exercise 11

Change the verbs in the following sentences into either Active or Passive Form:

Question 1. His performance in the shooting event was praised by everyone.

Answer: Everyone praised his performance in the shooting event.

Question 2. This Mall was built ten years ago.

Answer: They built this mall ten years ago.

Question 3. By whom was this exercise written?

Answer: Who wrote this exercise?

Question 4. I was astounded by her stupid behaviour at the club.

Answer: Her stupid behaviour at the club astonished me.

Question 5. Let the post be advertised.

Answer: Advertise the post.

Question 6. I should be allowed to attend the meeting by them.

Answer: They should allow me to attend the meeting.

Question 7. You are not allowed to walk on the grass.

Answer: They do not allow you to walk on the grass.

Question 8. It is expected that the new changes in the salary structure will be announced shortly.

Answer: We expect that they will announce the new changes in the salary structure shortly.

Question 9. You are requested to be seated on time.

Answer: We request you to be seated on time.

Question 10. I found that my bag had been stolen from the bus before it reached Delhi.

Answer: I found that someone had stolen my bag from the bus before it reached Delhi.

Question 11. The ticket will be given to you by my secretary tomorrow.

Answer: My secretary will give the ticket to you tomorrow.

Question 12. The parents will have been informed by post by them.

Answer: They will have informed the parents by post.

CBSE Class 8 English Chapter 30 Words Followed By Prepositions

Study the following and learn the correct use of Prepositions.

A

1. Tom agreed with me on that point.

2. She did not agree to my proposal.

3. He acted upon my advice.

4. He is addicted to smoking.

5. He was ashamed of his conduct.

6. I am not afraid of death.

7. Harry is very fond of reading novels.

8. She was very kind to us all.

9. I prefer riding to walking.

10. Be careful about your health.

B

11. You must take care of your health.

12. The teacher was angry with me for my misconduct.

13. He died of fever.

14. He is proud of his wealth.

15. Ali begged for mercy from the king.

16. The teacher was displeased with me.

17. Sita was born of rich parents.

18. She takes delight in swimming.

19. I was then busy with my lessons.

20. We were astonished at her rudeness.

C

21. We all wondered at her success.

22. The people were alarmed at this news.

23. The dog is ever faithful to his master.

24. He is ill with fever.

25. The boy jumped for joy.

26. My book is different from Harry’s.

27. Please excuse me for coming late.

28. The basket is full of flowers.

29. Fill the bottle with hot water.

30. He invited me to dinner.

D

31. She prays to God daily.

32. He quarrelled with me over this point.

33. He is tired of this life.

34. I am satisfied with your statement.

35. Harish warned me of the danger.

36. He is ignorant of the facts.

37. The accused was charged with murder.

38. He has no pity for poor labourers.

39. Have pity on us.

40. He prevented me from going there.

E

41. He was rewarded with a medal.

42. She was very anxious about her son’s health.

43. We laughed at her dress.

44. Who rules over England?

45. It is a pleasure to deal with him.

46. At last fortune smiled on him.

47. He is now free from cares.

48. We arrived in Mumbai at noon.

49. We arrived at the station just in time.

50. He introduced me to his uncle.

F

51. He did not reply to my letter.

52. She lives close to my house.

53. She had her revenge on her enemies.

54. He parted with all his property.

55. We were surprised at her success.

56. He parted from his friends.

57. He supplied the poor with clothing.

58. He fought against his enemies.

59. He complained to the Headmaster.

60. He complained against me.

G

61. Bali depends on your help.

62. He deals in Japanese silk.

63. Harry borrowed money from me.

64. Satish has failed in Englis.

65. He has applied for leave.

66. She is suffering from fever.

67. I am very sorry for my mistake.

68. She comes of a rich family.

69. Rama is married to Kamala.

70. He is true to his word.

H

71. She is related to me.

72. He was accused of theft.

73. She was annoyed with me.

74. I congratulate you on your success.

75. I always bathe in cold water.

76. He objected to my proposal.

77. I beg of you to forgive me.

78. I am obliged to you for your kindness.

79. He will not hide the truth from her.

80. I sympathise with you in your misfortune.

I

81. I am prepared for the worst.

82. I called on her yesterday.

83. I waited for you for an hour.

84. I explained the whole thing to him.

85. I inquired of her about the matter.

86. He is contented with his lot.

87. I was annoyed at her conduct.

88. She is obedient to her parents.

89. He is blind in the right eye.

90. He has a taste for painting.

J

91. I listened to what she said.

92. I was accompanied by my sister.

93. We rejoiced at his success.

94. Alcohol is injurious to health.

95. My pen is superior to yours.

96. Attend to what I say.

97. Trust in God.

98. Save me from such friends.

99. Do not lean against the door.

100. He is negligent in his work.

K

101. Are you acquainted with her?

102. He has no affection for his parents.

103. He is guilty of theft.

104. This book is useful for the junior boys.

105. A thief broke into his house.

106. We all grieved for her.

107. We were grieved to hear this.

108. We were grieved at the news.

109. He insisted on going there.

110. Has she recovered from her illness?

L

111. He is always short of money.

112. They set her house on fire.

113. They robbed him of his money.

114. I presented a silver watch to her.

115. The new king is popular with his subjects.

116. The old mother looks after her children.

117. He is jealous of your fame.

118. He was inquiring after your health.

119. Her face seems to be familiar to me.

120. He proved generous to his friends.

Exercise 1

Fill in the Blanks With Suitable Prepositions:

Question 1. The policeman is ______ duty.

Answer: The policeman is on duty.

Question 2. I met a beggar _______ the way.

Answer: I met a beggar on the way.

Question 3. Father is ______ home.

Answer: Father is at home.

Question 4. I was talking ____ my friend.

Answer: I was talking to my friend.

Question 5. He died _____ plague.

Answer: He died of plague.

Question 6. She is proud ______ her beauty.

Answer: She is proud of her beauty.

Question 7. I was suprised _____ his failure.

Answer: I was suprised at his failure.

Question 8. I congratulate you ____ your success in the examination.

Answer: I congratulate you on your success in the examination.

Question 9. I am not acquainted ______ her.

Answer: I am not acquainted with her.

Question 10. I agree ____ you ____ all points.

Answer: I agree with you on all points.

Question 11. Be kind ______ the poor.

Answer: Be kind to the poor.

Question 12. He is married _____ Tita.

Answer: He is married to Tita.

Question 13. I warned him _____ the danger.

Answer: I warned him about the danger.

Question 14. Beware ______ mad dogs.

Answer: Beware of mad dogs.

Question 15. He is famous _____ his learning.

Answer: He is famous for his learning.

Question 16. He is related ___ me.

Answer: He is related to me.

Question 17. She laughed ____ my face.

Answer: She laughed in my face.

Question 18. I have no taste ______ music.

Answer: I have no taste for music.

Question 19. I am sorry ____ my mistake.

Answer: I am sorry for my mistake.

Question 20. Her face is familiar ______ me.

Answer: Her face is familiar to me.

Question 21. He is always in need ____ money.

Answer: He is always in need of money.

Question 22. She is very fond ______ sweets.

Answer: She is very fond of sweets.

Question 23. This pen differs ______ that.

Answer: This pen differs from that.

Question 24. I prefer milk ____ tea.

Answer: I prefer milk to tea.

Question 25. She agreed ________ my proposal.

Answer: She agreed to my proposal.

Question 26. We deeply sympathised _____ her.

Answer: We deeply sympathised with her.

Question 27. She acted ______ my advice.

Answer: She acted on my advice.

Question 28. The hall was full ____ people.

Answer: The hall was full of people.

Question 29. I am obliged _____ you ____ your kindness.

Answer: I am obliged to you for your kindness.

Question 30. She insisted _______ going there.

Answer: She insisted on going there.

Exercise 2

Fill in the blanks with suitable Prepositions:

Question 1. I left my suitcase ______ the station.

Answer: I left my suitcase at the station.

Question 2. The train is ______ time.

Answer: The train is on time.

Question 3. The train will arrive ______ platform 2.

Answer: The train will arrive at platform 2.

Question 4. Are you going to compete _______ the prize?

Answer: Are you going to compete for the prize?

Question 5. This book is full ____ mistakes.

Answer: This book is full of mistakes.

Question 6. We were glad ______ her success.

Answer: We were glad of her success.

Question 7. His character is different _____ yours

Answer: His character is different from yours

Question 8. I am anxious ____ your health.

Answer: I am anxious about your health.

Question 9. Are you familiar ___ her?

Answer: Are you familiar with her?

Question 10. He was found guilty ____ murder.

Answer: He was found guilty of murder.

Question 11. He parted _______ his children with tears.

Answer: He parted from his children with tears.

Question 12. We waited _____ the rain.

Answer: We waited for the rain.

Question 13. Take care _______ your health.

Answer: Take care of your health.

Question 14. She does not care _______ anyone.

Answer: She does not care for anyone.

Question 15. The dog is faithful ____ his master.

Answer: The dog is faithful to his master.

Question 16. We should be thankful ____ God _____ His gifts.

Answer: We should be thankful to God for His gifts.

Question 17. Don’t listen _____ her.

Answer: Don’t listen to her.

Question 18. The king ruled ____ a vast country.

Answer: The king ruled over a vast country.

Question 19. Talk _____ something else.

Answer: Talk about something else.

Question 20. I will not hide the truth ______ toy.

Answer: I will not hide the truth from toy.

Question 21. I am not afraid ____ death.

Answer: I am not afraid of death.

Question 22. I am preparing _____ the examination.

Answer: I am preparing for the examination.

Question 23. I relied _____ the information you gave me.

Answer: I relied on the information you gave me.

Question 24. We searched _____ the dog everywhere.

Answer: We searched for the dog everywhere.

Question 25. She was angry ______ me for nothing.

Answer: She was angry with me for nothing.

Question 26. He is now free ______ pain.

Answer: He is now free from pain.

Question 27. Health is necessary _____ successful life.

Answer: Health is necessary for a successful life.

Question 28. He is sure  ______ success.

Answer: He is sure of success.