1. Why do most of us fail in our efforts for self-improvement?
Answer:
Most of us fail in our efforts for self-improvement because our plans are too ambitious and unrealistic. We often lack the time and self-discipline required to implement them. Consequently, we become frustrated by failure and eventually give up on our resolutions
2. Why is it a basic mistake to announce our resolution to everybody?
Answer:
Announcing our resolution to everyone is a fundamental mistake because when we fail to stick to it, we appear foolish and lose credibility. Public failure causes embarrassment and adds pressure, which discourages consistency and perseverance.
3. Why did the writer not carry out his resolution on New Year’s Day?
Answer:
The writer did not carry out his resolution on New Year’s Day because he had attended an overnight party on New Year’s Eve. This served as a convenient excuse for postponing his plan to start the resolutions.
4. Find out the words in the passage which convey the similar meanings to the following:
Word Given | Similar Word from Passage | Explanation |
(1) Intimidating | Formidable | Refers to something daunting or difficult to deal with |
(2) Peril | Pitfalls | Represents dangers or hidden risks in resolution-making |
(3) Dwindle | Diminished | Describes the gradual reduction in exercise time |
(4) Repel | Fend off | Means to resist or push away, as the writer did with taunts |
(5) Barb | Jibes | Refers to mocking remarks or taunts from the family |
Q.5 (b) Dialogue Conversion into Indirect Speech
Helen asked Mr. West what had happened to John. Mr. West told her that John had left the company. When Helen inquired why he had done that, Mr. West explained that John had asked him for a raise but he had refused. Helen then asked why he had not given John the raise, to which Mr. West replied that John had been lazy. Helen further asked if John had found another job, and Mr. West confirmed that he was working in a film company. Helen wanted to know what his salary was like, and Mr. West said he thought John earned quite a lot. Finally, Helen asked whether John liked his new job, but Mr. West responded that he did not know.
Q.6 (b): Idioms and Phrases (Any Five)
(i) Smash hit
The new superhero film turned out to be a smash hit at the box office.(ii) Murphy’s Law
(iii) Place in the Sun
I had everything planned for the picnic, but then it rained—classic Murphy’s Law!
After years of struggle, she finally found her place in the sun as a successful entrepreneur