190+ Vocabulary Strategy for SSC CGL
"Unlock the universe of knowledge and expression
by embracing a new word each day."
- In English Paper -5 to 6 questions (Synonyms and Antonyms
- 5 to 6 questions (Idioms & phrases
- 4 to 6 questions (One word substitution)
- 3 to 4 questions (Spellings')
Mastering vocabulary ensures 14 marks score with ease.
How to increase your vocabulary:
Learn at least 25 words daily (Synonyms & Antonyms together). After then, write
these words in your notebook, try to use them in your daily life. Revise after two
repeatedly for twenty days.
Next, first of all, learn 8 idioms and 10 one-word substitution, after then, use themin your own words. When you feel confident, write down in your notebook. Revise them after two days. Do this repeatedly for 20 to 40 days. Finally, start doing Online and offline Mock Test.
Start Using Memorization Tricks:
- Learn in Pairs:
- Root Method
- Three -Time Revision Rule
Focus on High Repetition Words:
These words are frequently asked in exams
Plan Weekly Structure:
Learn 20 words and revise 20 words from Monday to Friday. Practice at least
10 PYQ questions daily. On Saturdays, learn and revise idioms and one word
substitution. On the last day, that is Sunday, Practice full Mock Test and do
revision consistently.
Avoid Such Type of Mistake:
Strategies to Enhance Strong Vocabulary
Preparing for the SSC CGL exam requires a strong vocabulary, which is crucial for success in
the English comprehension section. Here are some effective vocabulary strategies to enhance
your preparation, along with examples for each point:
1. Flashcards:
Example: Write "Pulchritudinous" on one side of the flashcard. On the other side, include its meaning ("beautiful"), synonyms ("attractive, lovely"), antonyms ("ugly, unattractive"), and a sample sentence ("The pulchritudinous landscape took our breath away.").
2. Reading:
Example: Regularly read editorials from The Hindu. You might come across a word like "taciturn," which means reserved or uncommunicative. Reading it in context: "The taciturn leader's actions spoke louder than words."
3. Word Lists:
Example: Use a word list from an SSC CGL prep book that includes the word "ubiquitous," meaning present everywhere. Recognize it as a high-frequency exam word.
4. Apps and Online Tools:
Example: Use Quizlet to learn the word "gregarious," which means sociable. The app might offer a quiz where you match "gregarious" with its definition.
5. Root Words:
Example: Learn the root "bene," meaning good. Words like "benevolent" (kind) and "beneficiary" (recipient of benefits) can be easier to understand by recognizing the root.
6. Daily Practice:
Example: Set a goal to learn five new words daily, such as "ephemeral"
(lasting a very short time) and use them in sentences to reinforce their meanings.
7. Group Study:
Example: In a study group, take turns quizzing each other on words like "obfuscate," which means to confuse or bewilder, using it in sentences to enhance memory retention.
By incorporating these strategies into your study routine, you can significantly improve your vocabulary and boost your performance in the SSC CGL exam.
Exercise to Beat the SSC CGL Exams
Here's a set of 20 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) on synonyms, antonyms, one-word substitutions, phrases, and idioms, along with answers and explanations.
Synonyms
1. Select the synonym for "abundant":
a) Scarce
b) Plentiful
c) Sparse
d) Rare
Answer: b) Plentiful
Explanation: "Abundant" means having plenty of something. "Plentiful" is synonymous, suggesting a large or ample quantity.
2. Choose the synonym for "elated":
a) Depressed
b) Joyful
c) Anxious
d) Indifferent
Answer: b) Joyful
Explanation: "Elated" means extremely happy or joyful, making "joyful" its synonym.
3. Identify the synonym for "obscure":
a) Clear
b) Vague
c) Bright
d) Popular
Answer: b) Vague
Explanation: "Obscure" means not clear or hard to understand, which aligns with "vague."
Antonyms
4. Select the antonym for "benevolent":
a) Kind
b) Cruel
c) Generous
d) Polite
Answer: b) Cruel
Explanation: "Benevolent" means kind and helpful; "cruel" is the opposite, meaning harsh or unkind.
5. Choose the antonym for "diligent":
a) Industrious
b) Lazy
c) Careful
d) Smart
Answer: b) Lazy
Explanation: "Diligent" means showing care and effort in one's work, whereas "lazy" means unwilling to work or use energy.
6. Identify the antonym for "optimist":
a) Hopeful
b) Positive
c) Pessimist
d) Cheerful
Answer: c) Pessimist
Explanation: A pessimist and an optimist represent two contrasting outlooks on life and future events. A pessimist tends to focus on the negative aspects of situations, often expecting unfavorable outcomes and believing that challenges and difficulties are more likely to arise. This perspective can lead to a cautious approach to life, sometimes resulting in an emphasis on preparing for the worst-case scenarios. On the other hand, an optimist maintains a positive attitude, expecting favorable outcomes and focusing on the potential for good in any situation. Optimists are often seen as hopeful and resilient, believing that challenges can be overcome and that opportunities are abundant. These differing viewpoints can significantly influence how individuals interpret events and make decisions, impacting their overall happiness and resilience in the face of adversity.
One Word Substitution
7. What is the one word for "a person who speaks many languages"?
a) Linguist
b) Polyglot
c) Translator
d) Expert
Answer: b) Polyglot
Explanation: A "polyglot" is someone who knows and uses several languages.
8. What is the one word for "a place where birds are kept"?
a) Aviary
b) Apiary
c) Sanctuary
d) Kennel
Answer: a) Aviary
Explanation: An "aviary" is a large enclosure for confining birds.
9. What is the one word for "a person who loves books"?
a) Bibliophile
b) Bibliographer
c) Bibliomaniac
d) Bibliopole
Answer: a) Bibliophile
Explanation: A "bibliophile" is someone who has a great love for books.
Phrases
10. What does the phrase "burning the midnight oil" mean?
a) Staying up late to study
b) Lighting a candle at night
c) Working during the day
d) Saving energy
Answer: a) Staying up late to study
Explanation: "Burning the midnight oil" refers to staying up late at night to work or study.
11. What does the phrase "a blessing in disguise" mean?
a) A hidden curse
b) A true blessing
c) A misfortune that turns out to be good
d) A gift in a costume
Answer: c) A misfortune that turns out to be good
Explanation: This phrase refers to an apparent misfortune that ends up having a beneficial result.
12. What does the phrase "a picture is worth a thousand words" imply?
a) Pictures are expensive
b) Visuals can convey complex ideas
c) Words are more valuable than pictures
d) Art is superior to writing
Answer: b) Visuals can convey complex ideas
Explanation: The phrase suggests that a single image can provide a more complex message than a lengthy description.
Idioms
13. What does the idiom "break the ice" mean?
a) Literally break ice
b) End a cold war
c) Initiate conversation in a social setting
d) Start an adventure
Answer: c) Initiate conversation in a social setting
Explanation: "Break the ice" means to do or say something to relieve tension or get a
conversation going.
14. What does the idiom "spill the beans" mean?
a) Make a mess
b) Reveal a secret
c) Cook a meal
d) Plant seeds
Answer: b) Reveal a secret
Explanation: To "spill the beans" means to reveal confidential information or secrets.
15. What does the idiom "hit the nail on the head" mean?
a) Use a hammer correctly
b) Solve a problem exactly
c) Make a mistake
d) Strike a deal
Answer: b) Solve a problem exactly
Explanation: "Hit the nail on the head" means to do or say something precisely right.
Synonyms
16. Select the synonym for "frugal":
a) Extravagant
b) Thrifty
c) Wasteful
d) Lavish
Answer: b) Thrifty
Explanation: "Frugal" and "thrifty" both imply careful management of resources and avoiding waste.
Antonyms
17. Choose the antonym for "expand":
a) Extend
b) Contract
c) Enlarge
d) Increase
Answer: b) Contract
Explanation: "Expand" means to increase in size or scope, while "contract" means to decrease.
One Word Substitution
18. What is the one word for "a speech delivered without preparation"?
a) Manuscript
b) Extempore
c) Monologue
d) Dialogue
Answer: b) Extempore
Explanation: "Extempore" refers to speaking or performing without preparation.
Phrases
19. What does the phrase "let the cat out of the bag" mean?
a) Free a trapped animal
b) Reveal a secret
c) Start a new trend
d) Cause chaos
Answer: b) Reveal a secret
Explanation: "Let the cat out of the bag" means to reveal a secret or disclose information that was supposed to be kept confidential.
Idioms
20. What does the idiom "once in a blue moon" mean?
a) Very frequently
b) Very rarely
c) Every month
d) Once a year
Answer: b) Very rarely
Explanation: "Once in a blue moon" refers to something that happens very infrequently.
These questions cover various aspects of language skills, involving vocabulary building with synonyms and antonyms, understanding concise language through one word substitutions, and comprehending the nuanced meanings of phrases and idioms.
Final Golden Rule:
Learn Smart, Not Hard 
