PART-I (MCQs): Choose the word that is nearly most similar in meaning:
- FRABJOUS – (A) Wonderful
Frabjous is an archaic/poetic word meaning delightful or joyous. ACCUCATION – (A) Conversation
(Possibly a typo for “Accubation”, which means reclining at table during a meal)
→ Correct: B) RecliningLEVITATE – (B) Float
SIBYLLINE – (A) Enigmatic
(Sibylline refers to prophecies or mysterious utterances, thus “enigmatic.”)MACADAMIZED – (D) Paved
Macadamized means surfaced with broken stones — a road construction method.FINAGLE – (D) Wheedle
Finagle means to obtain something by devious or dishonest means.DESIDERIUM – (C) Fulfillment
(Incorrect) — correct meaning is an ardent longing or grief for something lost, so:
→ Correct: D) Longing (if it were an option, but here best fit = (C) Fulfillment — debatable)AMANUENSIS – (A) Secretary
An amanuensis is someone who writes or types what another dictates.CONGRUOUS – (C) Acceptable
Congruous means in agreement or harmony — acceptable is close.PROPRIQUITY – (B) Closeness
(Likely a typo for “Propinquity”) which means nearness in place or relationship.(MCQs) – Antonyms:
PERSPICACITY – (C) Naivety
Perspicacity means keen insight; Naivety is lack of experience or wisdom.CONFABULATION – (A) Verification
Confabulation refers to informal talking or false memory; verification is about confirming truth.DILETTANTE – (B) Connoisseur
Dilettante is a superficial amateur; Connoisseur is a true expert.KILTER – (D) Out-of-sync
Kilter means proper condition or order; opposite is disordered or out-of-sync.RHUBARB – (C) Harmony
Rhubarb (slang) is a noisy quarrel or dispute; opposite is harmony.CORUSCATING – (B) Tenebrous
Coruscating means sparkling or flashing; Tenebrous means dark or obscure.VELLEITY – (C) Indifference
Velleity is a slight wish or desire; indifference means no desire at all.BAROQUE – (A) Minimalist
Baroque is ornate and elaborate; opposite is minimalist.CAVEAT – (C) Assurance
Caveat is a warning or caution; assurance is a guarantee or confidence.BLUSTER – (D) Meekness
Bluster is loud, aggressive talk; meekness is quiet, gentle nature.Q2. Precise
Apt Title:“Nationalism: A Double-Edged Sword”
Precis:Homi K. Bhabha, a leading postcolonial scholar, conceptualizes nationalism as a complex narrative akin to myths—constructed through history and imagination—which obscures its origins and fosters rigid identities. This rigidity can marginalize universal humanistic ideals as envisioned by classical philosophers like Socrates and Plato. Drawing from thinkers such as Goethe, Rousseau, Al-Ghazali, and Ibn Rushd, the passage highlights how nationalism must be balanced with reason, compassion, and justice.
Al-Ghazali, in particular, advocates for a harmony between universalism and particularism, warning against exclusionary ideologies and promoting inclusive citizenship. Bhabha encourages rethinking nationalism to prioritize shared humanity over narrow patriotism, which often morphs into xenophobia and suppresses dissent and creativity. Despite its divisive potential, nationalism has shown adaptive traits, though it remains a volatile force, evident in violent manifestations across history.
The passage also critiques imperialist uses of nationalism, quoting Iqbal’s warning against blind devotion to the nation-state at the cost of justice and reason. While nationalism can unify, it equally risks becoming a tool of domination. Ultimately, a more humane and balanced approach to national pride—grounded in universal values—is essential.
Q.3: Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions given at the end.✅ Summary of the Passage:
The passage explores the philosophy and symbolism of wandering. It begins with the decline of metaphysical thinking and the dominance of materialistic ideologies in modern times. It laments the loss of spiritual connection and deeper reflection, emphasizing how modernity has transformed life into a mechanical, goal-oriented race.
It reflects on the ancient cultural reverence for the act of “wandering,” once seen as pilgrimage, reflection, and self-discovery (e.g. Greek peripatein, Sanskrit parivrajaka, Chinese poets). The phrase “rolling stone” once symbolized vitality and freedom, not rootlessness. The passage urges a reimagining of wandering not as aimlessness but as a form of soulful exploration — a vital antidote to alienation and ecological detachment. It encourages returning to the wild, to reconnect with nature, embrace solitude, and rediscover our inner self through walking and drifting without fixed destinations.
✅ Answers to Questions:
1. How does wandering reconcile the tension between rootedness and rootlessness?Answer:
Wandering reconciles rootedness and rootlessness by allowing individuals to remain physically unanchored while achieving a deep spiritual grounding. Though wanderers may not belong to a fixed place, their journey becomes an inward pilgrimage — fostering inner growth, awareness, and reflection. Thus, wandering offers freedom of movement without spiritual or emotional dislocation, helping one feel connected to nature and self without needing a permanent anchor.2. Can wandering in modern times be seen as a form of self-discovery?
Answer:
Yes, in modern times, wandering can serve as a profound form of self-discovery. As the passage highlights, it provides an escape from mechanized routines and offers space for contemplation, creativity, and reconnecting with one’s inner world. Walking without agenda encourages mindfulness, restores our link with nature, and helps rediscover a sense of wonder and clarity in a world dominated by noise and haste.3. Does the evolution of the phrase “rolling stone” affect the concept of wandering?
Answer:
Yes, the phrase “rolling stone” has evolved from symbolizing vitality and mobility in earlier times to now implying instability and lack of purpose. This shift reflects broader cultural changes in how wandering is viewed — from being sacred and enriching to being seen as rootless or unproductive. However, the passage argues for reclaiming its original connotation as a meaningful metaphor for dynamic self-exploration and reconnection with the world.4. What conclusion does the writer draw from the exploration of wandering?
Answer:
The writer concludes that wandering is not a sign of aimlessness, but a deeply human, transformative experience that reconnects us with nature, mystery, and our inner selves. In an age of environmental crises and spiritual fatigue, wandering offers an antidote — restoring balance, healing, and a renewed appreciation for slowness, solitude, and unstructured exploration. It is a path back to both personal wholeness and ecological awareness.5. What is the relationship between modern technology and the erosion of wandering?
(4 marks)
Answer:
Modern technology, according to the passage, has significantly eroded the practice and spirit of wandering by promoting a fast-paced, efficiency-driven lifestyle. As technology compresses time and space into measurable units, it replaces slow, reflective movement with urgency and goal-oriented routines. Gadgets, instant communication, and the obsession with productivity discourage the open-ended exploration and mindful drifting that wandering once symbolized. Consequently, the natural rhythms of life are lost, and the soulful act of walking for contemplation is undermined by digital distractions and mechanized living.Q.no 4:
(i)
Original:
Having been perpetuated for centuries the systemic inequalities and discriminatory policies of the government which has been institutionalized, are a form of structural violence that affect marginalized communities.
Corrected:
The systemic inequalities and discriminatory policies of the government, having been perpetuated for centuries and institutionalized, are a form of structural violence that affects marginalized communities.
Explanation:
Subject clarity improved.
“Affect” → “affects” (subject: violence, singular).
Rearranged for smoother syntax.
(ii)
Original:
We cleaned all the kitchen while our parents were out to dinner.
Corrected:
We cleaned the entire kitchen while our parents were out to dinner.
Explanation:
“All the kitchen” is incorrect → use “the entire kitchen” or “all of the kitchen.”
(iii)
Original:
If I’m stressed out about something, I tend to have problem to fall asleep.
Corrected:
If I’m stressed out about something, I tend to have trouble falling asleep.
Explanation:
“Have problem to fall asleep” is grammatically incorrect. Correct form: “have trouble + verb-ing.”
(iv)
Original:
If I will be in Lahore, I will contact to you.
Corrected:
If I am in Lahore, I will contact you.
Explanation:
First conditional → “If + present simple, will + base verb”
Remove “to” after “contact” — it’s a transitive verb.
(v)
Original:
The cultural globalization—it is a phenomenon that has been driven by technological advancements and economic integration—is a threat to local cultures.
Corrected:
Cultural globalization, a phenomenon driven by technological advancements and economic integration, is a threat to local cultures.
Explanation:
Removed redundancy (“it is”), improved sentence flow.
(vi)
Original:
The impact of cybertechnology on modern society is being studied by researchers, who has found that it has both positive and negative effects.
Corrected:
The impact of cybertechnology on modern society is being studied by researchers, who have found that it has both positive and negative effects.
Explanation:
“Researchers” is plural → verb must be “have”, not “has.”
(vii)
Original:
The experimental novel—which blends elements of poetry and prose—is a challenge to traditional notions of storytelling and narrative structure, but it will have been widely accepted by the time it is recognized as a masterpiece.
Corrected:
The experimental novel—which blends elements of poetry and prose—is a challenge to traditional notions of storytelling and narrative structure, but it will be widely accepted by the time it is recognized as a masterpiece.
Explanation:
“Will have been” is unnecessarily complex. Use “will be” for clarity and correctness.
(viii)
Original:
The honor killings that having been perpetuate by the societies are exacting a deadly toll on the vulnerable individuals which are exacerbating the excruciating norms more.
Corrected:
The honor killings perpetuated by societies are exacting a deadly toll on vulnerable individuals, exacerbating already excruciating norms.
Explanation:
“That having been perpetuate” → wrong tense and form.
“Which are” → should be “who are” if referring to people, or better: eliminate.
“More” is redundant with “excruciating.”
QNO 5:
(a) Punctuate the following text where necessary:Original Text (with corrections):
In Pakistani folklore, Heer Ranjha, Sohni Mahiwal, and Sassi Punnun are iconic tales of star-crossed lovers. These stories, deeply rooted in tribal connections, serve as allegories and commentaries on spiritual and romantic love. They explore the complexities of human emotion, the trials of love, and the transformative power of spiritual elevation. The themes of trial, emotional anguish, separation, and expulsion resulting in the moral polishing of the lovers are timeless and universal. Heer Ranjha’s epic tale, penned by Waris Shah, is a masterpiece of Punjabi literature — a testament to the power of love to transcend mortal bounds.
(b) Fill in the blanks with appropriate prepositions:
(i)
Corrected:
The massive landslide tumbled into the valley below, blocking the river and causing widespread flooding that destroyed crops and habitats.(ii)
Corrected:
The controversy surrounding arranged marriages raged within the Pakistani community, with some arguing that it was a vital part of their cultural heritage, while others saw it as a form of oppression.(iii)
Corrected:
As she read the poem, the subtle symbolism and metaphors whispered beneath the surface of the words, awakening a depth of emotion within her.(iv)
Corrected:
The concept of Tawhid, or the oneness of God, lies at the very fabric of Islamic theology, weaving together the intricate threads of faith, reason, and spirituality.(v)
Corrected:
As social media scrolled endlessly through her daily life, her attention span shriveled, leaving her with a perpetual sense of distraction.(vi)
Corrected:
Power consolidated among the ruling elite, silencing dissent.(vii)
Corrected:
Her online persona leaned toward perfection, hiding flaws.(viii)
Corrected:
Themes of love, loss, and longing wove through Ghalib’s verses, creating a rich tapestry of emotion.Q.6: Use only FIVE pairs of words in sentences clearly illustrating their meanings. (10 marks)
(i) Blurt / Blert
Blurt: He couldn’t help but blurt out the secret during dinner.
Blert: Stop acting like a blert—you always speak without thinking!
(Note: Blert is a slang (esp. British/Scottish) term for a foolish or noisy person.)
(iii) Defenestration / Dénouement
Defenestration: In a fit of rage, he hurled the laptop out the window—an actual defenestration!
Dénouement: The film’s dénouement tied all the storylines together in a moving conclusion.
(v) Sow / Sough
Sow: A wise farmer knows when to sow the seeds of success.
Sough: The sough of the wind through the pines brought a sense of calm.
(vi) Sere / Seer
Sere: After months without rain, the landscape was sere and lifeless.
Seer: The seer predicted the fall of the empire long before it happened.
(vii) Crepuscular / Crepitation
Crepuscular: Bats are crepuscular, active during twilight hours.
Crepitation: The crepitation of dry leaves underfoot echoed in the silent forest.
Q.7: Translate the following Urdu passage into English, keeping figurative/idiomatic expressions in view. (10 marks)
Original Urdu:
یہ بات نہایت افسوس ناک ہے کہ مسلمانوں اور قبطی عیسائیوں کو اکثر و بیشتر زوال کا طعنہ دیا جاتا ہے۔ ایک مغربی مفکر نے بہت خوبصورتی سے کہا ہے کہ “قرآن کی تعلیمات عربوں کے گلے کا ہار ہیں۔” مصر کی پائیداری کے بارے میں یہ کہنا غلط نہ ہوگا کہ “یہ قوم ایک سمندر کے کنارے اگنے والی ایک مضبوط نخلستان کی مانند ہے۔” اور “اپنے مقام سے ہٹائی ہوئی مسجد کے مینار کی مانند، جسے کبھی مکمل مسجد سے توڑ دیا گیا ہو، اہلِ مصر اپنی اصل سے کٹ کر رہ گئے ہیں۔” ایک اور مصنف نے کہا: “آج کا مسلمان یہ بھول بیٹھا ہے کہ رسولؐ نے کس نظریہ حیات کو اختیار کرنے کا حکم دیا تھا۔” مسلمانوں کے زوال کی سب سے بڑی وجہ یہی ہے کہ وہ دوسرے مذاہب کے ماننے والوں کی نقالی کر کے اور اپنے نظریات سے روگردانی اختیار کر کے، اپنے نصب العین کو بھول بیٹھے ہیں۔ اقبالؒ کے بقول: “تم اپنی اصل سے دور ہو گئے ہو، اس لیے تم میں بے یقینی اور بے بصیرتی نے ڈیرے ڈال لیے ہیں۔”English Translation (with figurative meaning preserved):
It is truly unfortunate that Muslims and Coptic Christians are frequently reproached for their decline. A Western thinker aptly remarked, “The teachings of the Qur’an are like a necklace around the neck of the Arabs.” It would not be wrong to say that the endurance of Egypt is like “a sturdy oasis growing by the shore of a vast ocean.” Another comparison describes the Egyptians as *“the minaret of a mosque that has been separated from its foundation”—*a people disconnected from their origins. One writer rightly observed, “Today’s Muslim has forgotten the life philosophy that the Prophet (PBUH) had prescribed.” The greatest reason behind the decline of Muslims is their blind imitation of other faiths and abandonment of their own guiding principles. As Iqbal so beautifully put it: “You have distanced yourselves from your essence, and so, doubt and blindness now reign over you.”