Master 'Who' to 'By whom' Passive Voice Conversion: Rules, Formula & Practice | How to Change 'Who' and 'Whom' Questions from Active to Passive Voice

Master Interrogative Active and Passive Voice Rules: Easy Guide for Competitive Exams 

Wh-Words in Passive Voice: Who vs Whom

who-whom-voice-change-rules

Interrogative sentences are broadly divided into two types:

1. Yes/No Questions: Questions that can be answered with yes or no.

   

    Active: Did you watch the movie, "Hanuman Ansh" yesterday?

    Passive: Was the movie, "Hanuman Ansh", watched by you yesterday?

Explanation:

In English grammar, forming the passive voice involves a few key steps:   

Identify the object of the active sentence:

In the active sentence, the object is "the movie, "Hanuman Ansh".

Move the object to the subject position:

In the passive voice, the object of the active sentence becomes the subject of the passive sentence.

Use the appropriate form of the verb "to be":

The word "to be" must match the tense of the main verb in the active sentence.

Here, " watch" is in the simple past tense, so "was" is used.

Use the past participle of the main verb:

The main verb "watch" becomes "watched".

Include the original subject as the agent:

In passive constructions, the agent (the doer of the action) can be included using "by". Here, "by you" is used.

This structure shifts the focus from the doer of the action to the action itself or the recipient of the action.

2. Wh-Questions: Questions that begin with Wh-words such as who, whom, whose, what, which, when, where, and why.

Point to remember:

Yes /No starts with auxiliary verb (Be, Do, Have, Modals)

Wh-Word starts with question word.

Today, we are going to discuss Wh-questions, with a special focus on “Who” and “Whom” in Passive Voice.

Many students find it confusing to change Who into By whom and Whom into Who while transforming active voice into passive voice.

Don't worry! In this lesson, we will understand the rules step by step, using simple formulas and examples to make voice change easier for SSC and other competitive examinations.

Who and Whom in Voice Change

Converting questions that begin with "Who" and "Whom" into Passive Voice can feel tricky because these words shift roles between the subject and the object of a sentence.

Master "Who" and "Whom" quickly with this visual trick - ideal for competitive exams.

Don't just read Grammar - see it, understand it, and remember it Forever 

Understanding the core mechanics behind these two relative pronouns makes converting any question seamless and accurate.

The Core Concept: Subject vs. Object

Before diving into the formulas, keep this simple rule in mind:

"Who" acts as the Subject ( the doer of the action) in Active Voice.

"Whom" acts as the Object ( the receiver of the action) in Active Voice.

When converting to passive voice, subjects and objects swap places:

Who (Active Subject) - By whom (passive object)

Whom (Active Object) - Who (passive subject)

Questions starting with "Who"

 Since "Who" is the subject performing the action, it moves to the end of the preposition in Passive Voice, changing into " By whom".

Standard Formula:

• Active: Who + Verb + Object?
• Passive: By whom + Auxiliary Verb + Object + third form of the verb.

Tense-Wise Breakdown and Examples 

Simple Present Tense 

Formula: By whom + is/ am/are + Object + third form of the verb?

• Active: Who teaches you French?
• Passive: By whom are you taught French?

Simple Past Tense 

Formula: By whom + was/were + Object + third form of the verb?

• Active: Who broke the windowpane?
• Passive: By whom was the windowpane broken?

Continuous Tense 

Formula: By whom + is/am/are/was/were + Object + being + third form of the verb.

• Active: Who is abusing your friend?
• Passive: By whom is your friend being abused?

Perfect Tense 

Formula: By whom + has/have/ had + Object + been + third form of the verb?

• Active: Who has written this application?
• Passive: By whom has this application been written?

Modals (Can, Could, Will, Should)

Formula: By whom + Modal + Object + be + third form of the verb?

• Active: Who can solve this miscellaneous exercise?
• Passive: By whom can this miscellaneous exercise be solved?

Note: In casual or spoken English, starting with Who and ending with by is also common.

For example,

Who was this book written by?

However, for formal writing and competitive exams, the traditional 

"By whom...." structure is preferred.

Questions Starting with "Whom"

In Active Voice, "Whom" is the object of the verb. 

When converting to Passive Voice, this object becomes the new subject and 

turns into "Who".

Standard Formula 

• Active: Whom + Auxiliary Verb + Subject + Verb?
• Passive: Who + Auxiliary Verb + Third form of the verb + by + Subject?

Tense-Wise Breakdown &; Examples 

Simple Present Tense 

Active: Whom do you select?

Passive: Who is selected by you?

Simple Past Tense 

Active: Whom did the team support?

Passive: Who was supported by the team?

Continuous Tense 

Active: Whom were they searching for?

Passive: Who was being searched for by them?

Modals

Active: Whom should we discuss?

Passive: Who should be discussed by us.

Quick Comparison Chart 📉 

• Active Sentence: Who wrote War and Peace?
• Passive Conversion: By whom was War and Peace written?
• Focus Rule: Who - By whom

• Active Sentence: Whom did you punish?
• Passive Conversion: Who was punished by you?
• Focus Rule: Whom - Who

• Active Sentence: Who has taken my favourite smartwatch?
• Passive Conversion: By whom has my favourite smartwatch been taken?
• Focus Rule: Who - By whom

• Active Sentence: Whom will they appreciate?
• Passive Conversion: Who will be appreciated by them?
• Focus Rule: Whom - Who

Practice Exercise ✍️

• Active: Who is flying a kite?
• Passive: By whom is a kite being flown?

Explanation:

 Identify the Subject, Verb, and Object:

In the active sentence, 

• "Who" is the subject
• "is flying" is the verb
• "a kite" is the object.

Make the Object the New Subject:

In passive voice, the object of the active sentence becomes the subject of the passive sentence. Therefore "a kite" becomes the subject.

Introduce the Original Subject with 'By':

The original subject "Who" is introduced in the passive sentence with "by", resulting in "By whom".

This is structure emphasizes the action and the recipient of the action rather than the doer.

Use an Appropriate Form of "to be":

The verb "is flying" is changed to the appropriate form of "to be" plus the past participle of the main verb. In this case, "is being flown".

Introduce the Original Subject with 'By':

The original subject "Who" is introduced in the passive sentence with "by", resulting in "By whom".

This is structure emphasizes the action and the recipient of the action rather than the doer.

Active Voice:

Who designed the national emblem of India?

Passive Voice:

By whom was the national emblem of India designed?

Explanation: Identify the question word.

The sentence begins with "Who", which ask about the doer of the action. When changing this type of question into passive voice, "Who" changes to "By whom".

Identify the Tense:

The verb "designed" is in the Simple Past Tense.

Active Voice Structure:

Who + Second Form of the Verb + Object?

Passive Voice Structure:

By whom + was /were + Object + Third Form of the Verb 

Change the Object into the Subject:

Object in the active voice: The national emblem of India

It becomes the subject in the passive voice

Use the correct helping verb and past participle.

• The national emblem is singular, so we use "was".
• The past participle of "design" is "designed".

Retain the question mark (?)

Since the original sentence is an interrogative sentence, the passive sentence must also end with a question mark.

Step by step transformation:

Active Voice 

Who designed the national emblem of India?

Apply the rules 

Who - By whom

Active: Designed (second form of the verb)

Passive: was designed (was + third form of the verb)

Passive Voice 

By whom was the national emblem of India designed?

Exam tips for SSC CGL, and other government exams (Most Important)

Remember this pattern:

Active Voice: Who + second form of the verb + object

• Active Voice: Who wrote this message?
• Passive Voice: By whom was this message written?

• Active Voice: Who invented the thermometer?
• Passive Voice: By whom was the thermometer invented?

• Active Voice: Who designed this corridor?
• Passive Voice: By whom was this corridor designed?

Point to Remember: Don't write "By whom did the national emblem of India designed?"

 The passive voice requires:  was/were + third form of the verb, not did + form of the verb.

Active and Passive Voice 

"Let's Stop Guessing 

and Start Understanding"!

If you are preparing for SSC CGL, SSC Stenographer, SSC CHSL,UPSC, & Other Government Exams, this comprehensive guide will help you understand rules instead of simply memorizing them.

Stop! Confusing while transforming Active Voice to Passive Voice:

Who vs Whom in Voice Change:

 Rules, Formulas and Examples for SSC Exams

One of my followers recently told me, “I am confused about the use of Who and Whom while changing sentences from Active Voice to Passive Voice.”

I advised him to learn the basic formulas and understand how these question words change in the passive voice. I also assured him that I would write a detailed article to clear up his confusion.

In grammar, "rule" and "formula" are related, but they are not exactly the same.

Rule: Explains when and why a grammatical structure is used.

Formula: Gives a fixed pattern to follow when constructing or transforming a sentence.

So, in this article, we will learn how to change “Who” into “By whom” and “Whom” into “Who” in the Passive Voice, with simple explanations, tense-wise formulas, solved examples, and interactive practice questions.

For example,

• Who - By whom 
• Whom - Who 

• Active: Who washed these utensils?
• Passive: By whom were these utensils washed?

Formula:

Who + V² + object?

→ By whom + was/were + object + V³?

More examples:

• Active: Who broke these cups?
• Passive: By whom were these cups broken?

• Active: Who wrote these letters?
• Passive: By whom were these letters written?

• Active: Whom did you teach?
• Passive: Who was taught by you?

• Active: Whom did you call?
• Passive: Who was called by you?

To change an active sentence like "Whom did you call?" into passive voice, we need to make the object of the active sentence the subject of the passive sentence.

 However, since this is a question, the structure changes slightly while maintaining the interrogative form. The passive voice of "Whom did you call?" would be "Who was called by you?"

 Explanation:

Identify the Components:

In the active sentence, "Whom did you call?"

•  "whom" is the object
•  'you' is the subject, 
•  "call" is the verb.

Change the Structure:

In a passive voice , the object (whom) becomes the subject of the sentence. The verb " call" changes to its past participle form "called".

Rearrange the Sentence:

The sentence becomes " Who was called by you?" Here, "who" takes the place of "whom" in passive voice as the subject of the sentence is indefinite.

 Formula:

Active Voice:

Subject + Verb + Object 

Passive Voice (Question Form): 

Question Word (Who/What) + auxiliary verb (was/were) + past participle of the main verb + by + subject 

By following these steps and formula, you can convert questions from active to passive voice while maintaining their interrogative nature.

Important Exam Tip: Always put a question mark (?) at the end of an interrogative sentence in the passive voice, just as you do in the active voice.

Quick Memory Trick:

See the image and learn the difference  because images stay in our mind for a long time.

Choose the correct option:

MCQS with Answers for Competitive Exams:

Who played Minecraft all the time? 

Passive Voice: By whom was Minecraft played all the time?

Explanation: In the simple past tense, the passive voice follows this structure:

Object + was/were + third form of the verb + by + subject 

Point to remember: When changing an interrogative sentence beginning with 

 Who into passive voice, use "By whom". 

By whom has the bone china cup broken?

Who had broken the bone china cup?

Who have broken the bone china cup?

Who has broken the bone china cup?

Who broke the bone china cup?

Answer: Who has broken the bone china cup?

Explanation: When changing a question beginning with “By whom” from passive to active voice, use “Who” as the subject.

Who has seen the latest news?

1. Have my charger been seen by you?
2. Has my charger been seen by you?
3. Had my charger been seen by you?

Active Voice: Who has seen the latest news?

Passive Voice: By whom has the latest news been seen?

Explanation: When changing an interrogative sentence beginning with Who into passive voice, use By whom.

Structure:

Active: Who + has/have + V³ + object?

Passive: By whom + has/have + object + been + V³?

Who wrote the novel," A Noble Name"?

1. By whom had the novel, "A Noble Name " written?
2. By whom was the novel, "A Noble Name" written?
3. By whom was the novel, "A Noble Name" wrote?

Ans: By whom was the novel," A Noble Name" written?

1. Whom are you going to invite to the housewarming party?
2. By whom is going to be invited to the housewarming party?
3. Who is going to be invited to the housewarming party?

Ans: Who is going to be invited to the housewarming party?

Note: 'Who ' changes into 'By whom' and 'Whom' into 'Who'.

Active Voice vs Passive Voice 

The easiest way to solve MCQs is to learn formula first and then practise solving exercises. This is one of the best ways to boost your confidence.

The more you practise, the better you become!

Don't cram the rules. Instead, understand them, learn the formulas, and apply them while solving questions. Regular practice will help you improve your accuracy and perform better in competitive exams.

Follow these steps:

1. Understand the rule instead of memorising it blindly.
2. Learn the formula and identify the sentence pattern.
3. Practise 10 - 20 MCQs on the same topic.
4. Analyse your mistakes and revise the relevant rule.
5. Take time tests to improve your speed and accuracy.

Point to remember: Don't cram the rules. Understand the concept, learn the formula, and apply it through regular practice. The more you practise, the better you become!

Here is a set of 20 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) focused on changing interrogative sentences in active voice 

to passive voice, specifically using "who" and "whom."

1. Who is calling you?

    A) By whom are you being called?

    B) Who is being called by you?

    C) Who is calling you by whom?

Answer: A) By whom are you being called?

Explanation: In passive voice, the subject becomes the object, and "who" changes to "by whom."

2. Who wrote the book?

    A) By whom was the book written?

    B) Who was the book written by?

    C) Whom was the book written by?

Answer: A) By whom was the book written?

Explanation: The active subject "who" changes to "by whom" in the passive voice.

3. Who will teach the class?

    A) By whom will the class be taught?

    B) Who will the class be taught by?

    C) Whom will the class be taught by?

Answer: A) By whom will the class be taught?

Explanation: The future tense structure remains intact, with "who" changing to "by whom."

4. Who has painted this picture?

    A) By whom this picture has been painted?

    B) By whom has this picture been painted?

    C) Who has this picture been painted by?

Answer: B) By whom has this picture been painted?

Explanation: The auxiliary verb "has" precedes the subject in the passive voice.

5. Who built the house?

    A) Who was the house built by?

    B) By whom the house was built?

    C) By whom was the house built?

Answer: C) By whom was the house built?

Explanation: The question is correctly structured with "by whom" and the auxiliary "was."

6. Who will clean the room?

    A) By whom will the room be cleaned?

    B) Who will the room be cleaned by?

    C) Whom will the room be cleaned by?

Answer: A) By whom will the room be cleaned?

Explanation: The future tense "will" remains before the subject in passive voice.

7. Who discovered America?

    A) By whom was America discovered?

    B) Who was America discovered by?

    C) Whom America was discovered by?

 Answer: A) By whom was America discovered?

 Explanation: In passive voice, "discovered is preceded by "was" and "by whom."

8. Who can solve this problem?

    A) By whom can this problem be solved?

    B) Who can this problem be solved by?

    C) Whom can this problem be solved by?

Answer: A) By whom can this problem be solved?

Explanation: "Can" is followed by the subject in passive voice, with "by whom."

9. Who is baking the cake?

    A) By whom is the cake being baked?

    B) Who is the cake being baked by?

    C) Whom is the cake being baked by?

Answer: A) By whom is the cake being baked?

Explanation: Present continuous tense uses "is being" in passive voice.

10. Who did you meet at the party?

     A) Whom were you met by at the party?

     B) By whom were you met at the party?

     C) By whom were they met at the party?

Answer: B) By whom were you met at the party?

Explanation: "Did" changes to "were," and "who" to "by whom."

11. Who should we invite?

     A) By whom should we be invited?

     B) By whom should this invitation be?

     C) Whom should be invited by us?

Answer: C) Whom should be invited by us?

Explanation: "Should" remains, and the question is rephrased in passive voice.

12. Who is helping you?

     A) By whom are you being helped?

     B) Who are you being helped by?

     C) Whom are you being helped by?

Answer: A) By whom are you being helped?

Explanation: "Who" changes to "by whom," maintaining present continuous tense.

13. Who composed this song?

     A) By whom was this song composed?

     B) Who was this song composed by?

     C) Whom was this song composed by?

 Answer: A) By whom was this song composed?

 Explanation: The passive voice requires "by whom" followed by "was composed."

14. Who will organize the event?

     A) By whom will the event be organized?

     B) Who will the event be organized by?

     C) Whom will the event be organized by?

Answer: A) By whom will the event be organized?

Explanation: The future tense in passive voice correctly uses "by whom."

15. Who has signed the document?

     A) By whom has the document been signed?

     B) Who has the document been signed by?

     C) Whom has the document been signed by?

Answer: A) By whom has the document been signed?

Explanation: "Has" is followed by "by whom" in passive voice format.

16. Who is playing the piano?

     A) By whom is the piano being played?

     B) Who is the piano being played by?

     C) Whom is the piano being played by?

 Answer: A) By whom is the piano being played?

 Explanation: Maintains present continuous tense with "by whom."

17. Who may attend the meeting?

     A) By whom may the meeting be attended?

     B) Who may the meeting be attended by?

     C) Whom may the meeting be attended by?

Answer: A) By whom may the meeting be attended?

Explanation: The modal "may" is followed by the subject in passive voice.

18. Who has been watching the movie?

     A) By whom has the movie been being watched?

     B) By whom has the movie been watched?

     C) Who has the movie been watched by?

    Answer: B) By whom has the movie been watched?

    Explanation: The present perfect tense is used in passive voice.

19. Who should clean the windows?

     A) By whom should the windows be cleaned?

     B) Who should the windows be cleaned by?

     C) Whom should the windows be cleaned by?

 Answer: A) By whom should the windows be cleaned?

 Explanation: "Should" is retained, and "by whom" is correctly used in passive voice.

20. Who had won the prize?

     A) By whom had the prize been won?

     B) Who had the prize been won by?

     C) Whom had the prize been won by?

Answer: A) By whom had the prize been won?

 Explanation: The past perfect tense uses "had" followed by "by whom" in passive voice.

These questions and explanations help clarify how to transform active interrogative sentences using "who" into passive voice using "by whom."

Remember the more you practise, 

the better you become! Don't cram

 the rules; understand them, apply

 them, and revise them regularly. 

Consistent practice is the key to building confidence and scoring well in competitive exams.

SSC CGL Notification 2026 Out: 12,256 Vacancies, Exam Date, Eligibility & Apply Online 2026 - 2027 | Most Repeated English (100 MCQ) Questions with Answers 2026 for SSC CGL, CHSL, CPO, MTS Exams

SSC Exams 2026–27: Notification Schedule 

(Important for Aspirants)

According to the official SSC examination calendar, the following major notifications 

are scheduled for 2026–27. 

Exam Notification Application Period Exam

SSC CGL 2026

Selection Post Phase-XIV March 2026

March–April 2026

May–July 2026

SSC CHSL 2026 April 2026 April–May 2026

July–September 2026

Stenographer Grade C & D April 2026

 April–May 2026 August–September 2026

SSC JHT (Hindi Translator) April 2026

 April–May 2026 August–September 2026

SSC CPO (Delhi Police SI/CAPF SI) May 2026 May–June 2026 October–November 2026

SSC MTS & Havaldar June–July 2026

 June–July 2026 September–November 2026

SSC GD Constable 2027 

 September–October 2026

September–October 2026 January–March 2027

SSC CGL 2026 Notification released for 12,256 vacancies. Check eligibility, age limit, exam pattern, syllabus, important dates, and application process.

Particulars                Details

 Notification     

 Release Date             21 May 2026  

 Last Date to Apply    22 June 2026

Vacancy                12,256

Tier-I Exam         Aug–Sep 2026

Tier-II Exam        Dec 2026

Drishti SSC +1

2. Include New Changes

Mention important updates such as:

Sectional timing in Tier-I and Tier-II.

Live photo capture during application.

Fresh OTR registration requirements

1. SSC CHSL 2026

SSC CGL Syllabus (English)

Basic Grammar

Synonyms & Antonyms

One-Word Substitution

Idioms & Phrases

2. SSC CPO 2026

Moderate-to-Advanced English

Reading Comprehension

Sentence Improvement

3. SSC GD Constable 2027

Basic English Grammar

Vocabulary

Common Error Detection

[SSC Examination Calendar 2026–27]

(https://ssc.gov.in/for-candidates/examination-calendar?)

Practice these 100 multiples - choice questions with answers for practice. 

Attempt these questions to assess your preparation, strengthen your concepts, and clear your doubts.

Top 40 Error Detection questions for SSC CGL 2026

Here are 40 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) focused on error detection and grammar rules:

Question 1:

Identify the error in the sentence:

 "Neither the teacher nor the students is happy with the new schedule."

A) No error  

B) Neither the teacher nor the students are  

C) is happy with  

D) the new schedule

Answer: B) Neither the teacher nor the students are  

Explanation: When using "neither...nor" the verb should agree with the noun closest to it. Since "students" is plural, the correct verb is "are."

Question 2:

Select the option with the correct form of the verb:

 "Each of the participants __________ awarded a certificate."

A) was  

B) were  

C) have been  

D) are

Answer: A) was  

Explanation: "Each" is singular, so the verb should be singular. The correct form is "was."

Question 3:

Find the error in this sentence: 

"She is more smarter than her brother."

A) She is  

B) more smarter  

C) than her brother  

D) No error

Answer: B) more smarter  

Explanation: "Smarter" is a comparative adjective, so "more" is unnecessary. The correct form is "smarter."

Question 4:

Choose the correct sentence:

A) The committee has made their decision.  

B) The committee have made their decision.  

C) The committee has made its decision.  

D) The committee have made its decision.

Answer: C) The committee has made its decision.  

Explanation: "Committee" is a collective noun treated as singular when it acts as a single unit, requiring "has" and "its."

Question 5:

Identify the error:

 "Everyone should do their best in the exam."

A) Everyone  

B) should do  

C) their best  

D) No error

Answer: C) their best  

Explanation: "Everyone" is singular and should be paired with "his or her" instead of "their.

 "The correct form is "his or her best."

Question 6:

Select the correct sentence:

A) The news are very exciting.  

B) The news is very exciting.  

C) The news are very excited.  

D) The news is very excited.

Answer: B) The news is very exciting.  

Explanation: "News" is a singular noun and should be followed by "is."

Question 7:

Choose the option that corrects the error:

 "Neither the manager nor his assistant have prepared the report."

A) No error  

B) have prepared  

C) has prepared  

D) the report

Answer: C) has prepared  

Explanation: With "neither...nor" the verb agrees with the closest noun. "Assistant" is 

singular, so "has" is correct.

Question 8:

Identify the error:

 "The team play their best only when they are under pressure."

A) The team  

B) play their best  

C) only when  

D) No error

Answer: B) play their best  

Explanation: "The team" is a collective noun treated as singular, so it should be "plays its best."

Question 9:

Select the correct sentence:

A) Mathematics are a subject I enjoy.  

B) Mathematics is a subject I enjoy.  

C) Mathematics are subjects I enjoy.  

D) Mathematics is subjects I enjoy.

Answer: B) Mathematics is a subject I enjoy.  

Explanation: "Mathematics" is considered singular, so it takes "is."

Question 10:

Find the error in the sentence: 

"The number of participants have increased significantly."

A) The number of  

B) participants  

C) have increased  

D) No error

Answer: C) have increased  

Explanation: "The number of" is treated as singular, so it should be "has increased."

Question 11:

Identify the error: "Each of the boys were given a book."

A) Each of  

B) the boys  

C) were given  

D) No error

Answer: C) were given  

Explanation: "Each" is singular, so the verb should be "was given."

Question 12:

Choose the correct sentence:

A) Either the manager or the employees has to attend the meeting.  

B) Either the manager or the employees have to attend the meeting.  

C) Either the manager nor the employees have to attend the meeting.  

D) Either the manager nor the employees has to attend the meeting.

Answer: B) Either the manager or the employees have to attend the meeting.  

Explanation: With "either...or," the verb agrees with the closest noun. "Employees" is plural, so "have" is correct.

Question 13:

Select the option that corrects the error:

 "One of the cars are parked illegally."

A) One of  

B) the cars  

C) are parked  

D) No error

Answer: C) are parked  

Explanation: "One of" implies singularity, so it should be "is parked."

Question 14:

Identify the error: 

"Neither of them have been to Paris."

A) Neither of  

B) them  

C) have been  

D) No error

Answer: C) have been  

Explanation: "Neither of" is singular, so it should be "has been."

Question 15.

Find the error in the sentence:

 "The pair of shoes are on sale."

A) The pair of  

B) shoes  

C) are on sale  

D) No error

Answer: C) are on sale  

Explanation: "Pair" is singular, so it should be "is on sale."

Question 16:

Choose the correct sentence:

A) The data is being analyzed.  

B) The data are being analyzed.  

C) The data is being analyzing.  

D) The data are being analyzing.

Answer: A) The data is being analyzed.  

Explanation: "Data" is often treated as singular in modern usage, so "is being analyzed"

 is correct.

Question 17:

Select the option that corrects the error: "Each of the players have their own locker."

A) Each of  

B) the players  

C) have their  

D) No error

Answer: C) have their  

Explanation: "Each" is singular, so it should be "has his or her own locker."

Question 18:

Identify the error: "She and her brother has a great relationship."

A) She and  

B) her brother  

C) has a great  

D) No error

Answer: C) has a great  

Explanation: "She and her brother" is plural, so it should be "have a great."

Question 19:

Choose the correct sentence:

A) A number of students is absent today.  

B) A number of students are absent today.  

C) A number of student is absent today.  

D) A number of student are absent today.

Answer: B) A number of students are absent today.  

Explanation: "A number of" is treated as plural, so it takes "are."

Question 20:

Find the error in the sentence: "The team has won their first championship."

A) The team  

B) has won  

C) their first championship  

D) No error

Answer: C) their first championship  

Explanation: "The team" is singular, so it should be "its first championship."

Question 21:

Identify the error: "Either the clerk or the manager are available."

A) Either the clerk  

B) or the manager  

C) are available  

D) No error

Answer: C) are available  

Explanation: "Manager" is singular, so it should be "is available."

Question 22:

Select the correct sentence:

A) The scissors is on the table.  

B) The scissors are on the table.  

C) The scissor is on the table.  

D) The scissor are on the table.

Answer: B) The scissors are on the table.  

Explanation: "Scissors" is always plural, so it takes "are."

Question 23:

Choose the option that corrects the error:

 "There is many reasons for his decision."

A) There is  

B) many reasons  

C) for his decision  

D) No error

Answer: A) There is  

Explanation: "Reasons" is plural, so it should be "There are."

Question 24:

Identify the error:

 "One of the girls have lost her book."

A) One of  

B) the girls  

C) have lost  

D) No error

Answer: C) have lost  

Explanation: "One of" implies singular, so it should be "has lost."

Question 25:

Find the error in the sentence:

 "The news about the elections are very surprising."

A) The news  

B) about the elections  

C) are very surprising  

D) No error

Answer: C) are very surprising  

Explanation: "News" is singular, so it should be "is very surprising."

Question 26:

Choose the correct sentence:

A) The family are planning a vacation.  

B) The family is planning a vacation.  

C) The families is planning a vacation.  

D) The families are planning a vacation.

Answer: B) The family is planning a vacation.  

Explanation: "Family" is a collective noun treated as singular, so it takes "is."

Question 27:

Select the option that corrects the error: 

"None of the information were accurate."

A) None of  

B) the information  

C) were accurate  

D) No error

Answer: C) were accurate  

Explanation: "Information" is singular, so it should be "was accurate."

Question 28:

Identify the error: 

"Either the students or the teacher have to clean the board."

A) Either the students  

B) or the teacher  

C) have to  

D) No error

Answer: C) have to  

Explanation: "Teacher" is singular, so it should be "has to."

Question 29:

Find the error in the sentence: "The variety of options are overwhelming."

A) The variety of  

B) options  

C) are overwhelming  

D) No error

Answer: C) are overwhelming  

Explanation: "Variety" is singular, so it should be "is overwhelming."

Question 30:

Choose the correct sentence:

A) The police is investigating the case.  

B) The police are investigating the case.  

C) The policemen is investigating the case.  

D) The policemen are investigating the case.

Answer: B) The police are investigating the case.  

Explanation: "Police" is always plural, so it takes "are."

Question 31:

Identify the error: "Each of the children are playing in the park."

A) Each of  

B) the children  

C) are playing  

D) No error

Answer: C) are playing  

Explanation: "Each" is singular, so it should be "is playing."

Question 32:

Select the option that corrects the error: "There is several factors to consider."

A) There is  

B) several factors  

C) to consider  

D) No error

Answer: A) There is  

Explanation: "Factors" is plural, so it should be "There are."

Question 33:

Choose the correct sentence:

A) The trousers is too tight.  

B) The trousers are too tight.  

C) The trouser is too tight.  

D) The trouser are too tight.

Answer:B) The trousers are too tight.  

Explanation: "Trousers" is always plural, so it takes "are."

Question 34:

Find the error in the sentence: "The pair of scissors are on the desk."

A) The pair of  

B) scissors  

C) are on the desk  

D) No error

Answer: C) are on the desk  

Explanation: "Pair" is singular, so it should be "is on the desk."

Question 35:

Identify the error: "Neither of the plans have been approved."

A) Neither of  

B) the plans  

C) have been  

D) No error

Answer: C) have been  

Explanation: "Neither of" is singular, so it should be "has been."

Question 36:

Select the correct sentence:

A) The furniture has been delivered.  

B) The furniture have been delivered.  

C) The furnitures has been delivered.  

D) The furnitures have been delivered.

Answer: A) The furniture has been delivered.  

Explanation: "Furniture" is a collective singular noun, so it takes "has."

Question 37:

Choose the option that corrects the error: 

"Each of them are responsible for their actions."

A) Each of  

B) them  

C) are responsible  

D) No error

Answer: C) are responsible  

Explanation: "Each" is singular, so it should be "is responsible."

Question 38:

Identify the error:

 "The council has made their decision public."

A) The council  

B) has made  

C) their decision  

D) No error

Answer: C) their decision  

Explanation: "Council" is singular, so it should be "its decision."

Question 39:

Find the error in the sentence:

 "The number of errors in the report are significant."

A) The number of  

B) errors  

C) are significant  

D) No error

Answer: C) are significant  

Explanation: "The number of" is singular, so it should be "is significant."

Question 40:

Choose the correct sentence:

A) The staff is busy today.  

B) The staffs is busy today.  

C) The staff are busy today.  

D) The staffs are busy today.

Answer: A) The staff is busy today.  

Explanation: "Staff" is a collective noun treated as singular, so it takes "is."

Master subject verb agreement with easy rules, examples, and quick tricks. Perfect for SSC, banking, and competitive exams. Save this for revision.

 40 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) for the SSC CGL exam vocabulary section involves 

covering a range of topics such as one-word substitutions, idioms and phrases, synonyms, and antonyms. 

 One-Word Substitution

1. A person who is indifferent to the pains and pleasures of life:

    a) Stoic

    b) Cynic

    c) Epicurean

    d) Hedonist

   Answer: a) Stoic

    Explanation: A "stoic" is someone who can endure pain or hardship without showing 

their feelings or complaining. The term originates from Stoicism, a school of philosophy.

2. A place where coins are made:

    a) Factory

    b) Mint

    c) Forge

    d) Treasury

 

Answer: b) Mint

 Explanation: A "mint" is an establishment where currency, in the form of coins, is produced.

 It's a specialized facility distinct from a factory, which produces goods in general.

3. A speech delivered without preparation:

    a) Monologue

    b) Soliloquy

    c) Extempore

    d) Eulogy

Answer: c) Extempore

    Explanation: "Extempore" refers to a speech or performance made without preparation. 

It emphasizes spontaneity and the ability to think on one’s feet.

4. A person who loves mankind:

    a) Misogynist

    b) Philanthropist

    c) Misanthrope

    d) Narcissist

Answer: b) Philanthropist

 Explanation:A "philanthropist" is someone who seeks to promote the welfare of others, often through generous donations. The term originates from the Greek words "philos" (loving) and "anthropos" (man).

5. The practice of having more than one husband at a time:

    a) Polygyny

    b) Polyandry

    c) Bigamy

    d) Monogamy

   Answer: b) Polyandry

   Explanation: "Polyandry" is a form of marriage in which a woman has more than one husband.

 It’s the counterpart to "polygyny," where a man has multiple wives.

 Idioms and Phrases

6. To turn a deaf ear:

    a) To be hard of hearing

    b) To ignore what someone says

    c) To listen carefully

    d) To misunderstand

   Answer: b) To ignore what someone says

   Explanation: "To turn a deaf ear" is an idiom meaning to ignore either advice or a request. 

It suggests a deliberate act of not listening.

7. Bite the bullet:

    a) To endure a painful experience

    b) To be wounded

    c) To be reckless

    d) To be aggressive

Answer: a) To endure a painful experience

 Explanation: "Bite the bullet" refers to facing a painful or difficult situation with courage.

 Historically, soldiers would bite on bullets to endure pain during medical procedures without anesthesia.

8. Hit the nail on the head:  

   a) To miss the point

    b) To be exact or correct

    c) To hurt someone

    d) To fix something

   Answer: b) To be exact or correct

    Explanation: "Hit the nail on the head" means to describe exactly what is causing a situation or problem. It implies pinpoint accuracy in addressing an issue.

9. A blessing in disguise:

    a) A hidden curse

    b) A good thing that initially seemed bad

    c) A fortunate meeting

    d) A deceptive promise

Answer: b) A good thing that initially seemed bad

Explanation: This idiom refers to an apparent misfortune that results in something good. The true benefit is not immediately obvious.

10. Burning the midnight oil:

     a) Wasting time

     b) Working late into the night

     c) Sleeping late

     d) Being lazy

    

Answer: b) Working late into the night

    Explanation: "Burning the midnight oil" means staying up late to work or study. It originates from the time when oil lamps were used for lighting.

 Synonyms

11. Abundant:

     a) Scarce

     b) Plentiful

     c) Rare

     d) Minimal

    

Answer: b) Plentiful

Explanation:"Plentiful" is a synonym for "abundant," both indicating a large quantity or ample supply.

12. Candid:

     a) Secretive

     b) Honest

     c) Deceitful

     d) Reserved

    

Answer: b) Honest

Explanation: "Candid" means being open, sincere, and honest in expression. It is the opposite of being deceitful or secretive.

13. Hasten:

     a) Delay

     b) Slow

     c) Expedite

     d) Procrastinate

    

Answer: c) Expedite

Explanation: To "hasten" means to accelerate or speed up, which is synonymous with "expedite."

14. Imminent:

     a) Distant

     b) Forthcoming

     c) Recent

     d) Delayed

   Answer: b) Forthcoming

Explanation: "Imminent" refers to something that is about to happen very soon, akin to 

"Forthcoming."

15. Luminous:

     a) Dark

     b) Dull

     c) Radiant

     d) Opaque

    

Answer: c) Radiant

Explanation: "Luminous" means emitting or reflecting light, which is synonymous with "radiant."

Antonyms

16. Affluent:

     a) Rich

     b) Impoverished

     c) Wealthy

     d) Prosperous

    

Answer: b) Impoverished

Explanation: The antonym of "affluent," which means wealthy, is "impoverished," indicating a lack of wealth or resources.

17. Mandatory:

     a) Optional

     b) Compulsory

     c) Necessary

     d) Required

    Answer: a) Optional

Explanation: "Mandatory" means required by law or rules, so its opposite is "optional," meaning

 left to personal choice.

18. Optimistic:

     a) Hopeful

     b) Pessimistic

     c) Positive

     d) Encouraging

   Answer: b) Pessimistic

  Explanation: "Optimistic" refers to having a hopeful and positive view of the future, 

while "pessimistic" means having a negative outlook.

19. Conceal:

     a) Hide

     b) Reveal

     c) Cover

     d) Bury

    

Answer: b) Reveal

Explanation: "Conceal" means to hide or keep secret, whereas "reveal" means to make something known or visible.

20. Gregarious:

     a) Sociable

     b) Introverted

     c) Friendly

     d) Outgoing

    

Answer: b) Introverted

Explanation:"Gregarious" refers to someone who enjoys being in groups and is sociable, which is the opposite of "introverted," indicating a preference for solitude.

 Additional Questions

21. A government by the few:

     a) Autocracy

     b) Oligarchy

     c) Democracy

     d) Bureaucracy

    Answer: b) Oligarchy

Explanation: "Oligarchy" is a form of government in which power is held by a small group of people.

22. To cry wolf:

     a) To raise a false alarm

     b) To be brave

     c) To be cautious

     d) To seek help

    

Answer: a) To raise a false alarm

Explanation: "To cry wolf" means to repeatedly call for help when it is not needed, causing others to ignore future calls.

23. A short, amusing story about a real incident or person:

     a) Novel

     b) Anecdote

     c) Biography

     d) Fable

    

Answer: b) Anecdote

Explanation: An "anecdote" is a brief, entertaining story about a real incident or person.

24. The ball is in your court:

     a) You have the responsibility to make the next decision

     b) The game has ended

     c) The situation is out of your hands

     d) You are at fault

    

Answer: a) You have the responsibility to make the next decision

 Explanation: This idiom means it is now someone else's turn to take action or make a decision.

25. A person who opposes war or violence:

     a) Pacifist

     b) Anarchist

     c) Nihilist

     d) Militarist

    

Answer: a) Pacifist

Explanation: A "pacifist" is someone who believes that war and violence are unjustifiable and who seeks peaceful solutions.

26. A wild goose chase:

     a) A successful hunt

     b) A futile pursuit

     c) A planned event

     d) A dangerous adventure

    Answer: b) A futile pursuit

Explanation: "A wild goose chase" refers to a pursuit or task that is futile or has no purpose.

27. A person who talks too much:

     a) Reticent

     b) Garrulous

     c) Taciturn

     d) Silent

    

Answer: b) Garrulous

Explanation: "Garrulous" is an adjective used to describe someone who is excessively talkative, especially on trivial matters.

28. To smell a rat:

     a) To detect something suspicious

     b) To find something pleasant

     c) To uncover a hidden treasure

     d) To catch a criminal

   Answer: a) To detect something suspicious

 Explanation: This idiom means to suspect that something is wrong or that someone is being deceitful.

29. A person who collects and studies stamps:

     a) Philatelist

     b) Numismatist

     c) Ornithologist

     d) Cartographer

    

Answer: a) Philatelist

Explanation: A "philatelist" is one who collects and studies stamps, while a "numismatist" collects coins.

30. A piece of cake:

     a) Something very easy

     b) Something very difficult

     c) A delicious dessert

     d) A complicated task

    

Answer: a) Something very easy

Explanation: This idiom means that a task or activity is very easy or simple to accomplish.

31. A person who believes in fate:

     a) Fatalist

     b) Atheist

     c) Agnostic

     d) Optimist

    

Answer: a) Fatalist

Explanation: A "fatalist" believes that all events are predetermined and inevitable, 

and thus, inevitable.

32. To pull someone's leg:

     a) To play a joke on someone

     b) To assist someone

     c) To encourage someone

     d) To harm someone

Answer: a) To play a joke on someone

Explanation: This idiom means to tease or joke with someone in a playful manner.

33. A person who withdraws from the world to live in seclusion:

     a) Recluse

     b) Extrovert

     c) Diplomat

     d) Socialite

    Answer: a) Recluse

   Explanation: A "recluse" is someone who lives in voluntary seclusion from the world, 

    often to seek solitude or avoid society.

34. To hit the books:

     a) To study hard

     b) To play with books

     c) To write a novel

     d) To buy new books

 Answer: a) To study hard

 Explanation: This idiom means to begin studying intensely, typically for an exam or test.

35. A person who is always dissatisfied:

     a) Malcontent

     b) Pessimist

     c) Optimist

     d) Realist

    

Answer: a) Malcontent

Explanation: A "malcontent" is someone who is dissatisfied with existing conditions and

 often expresses their discontent.

36. To sit on the fence:

     a) To be undecided

     b) To make a decision

     c) To relax

     d) To take a risk

   Answer: a) To be undecided

   Explanation: This idiom means not to make a decision or take a side in a dispute, 

   often to avoid offending either party.

37. A person who pretends to be someone else for deceitful purposes:

     a) Impostor

     b) Philanthropist

     c) Benefactor

     d) Connoisseur

    Answer: a) Impostor

    Explanation: An "impostor" is someone who pretends to be someone else in order to 

    deceive others, typically for gain.

38. To read between the lines:

     a) To understand the hidden meaning

     b) To read quickly

     c) To ignore the text

     d) To focus on the main idea

Answer: a) To understand the hidden meaning

Explanation: This idiom suggests looking beyond the surface to understand the deeper meaning or subtext of a situation or statement.

39. A person who renounces the world and practices self-discipline:

     a) Ascetic

     b) Hedonist

     c) Libertine

     d) Epicurean

    Answer: a) Ascetic

    Explanation: An "ascetic" practices severe self-discipline and abstention from all forms of                         indulgence, often for religious reasons.

40. To let the cat out of the bag:

     a) To reveal a secret

     b) To hold a grudge

     c) To free a pet

     d) To take a risk

    

Answer: a) To reveal a secret 

Explanation: This idiom means to disclose a secret or reveal information inadvertently or prematurely.

These questions are designed to test knowledge of vocabulary, idioms, and phrases, which are essential components of the SSC CGL exam.

 The more MCQs and mock tests you solve, the more comfortable SSC CGL English will feel on exam day.

 20 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) on the topics of Active and Passive Voice, and Direct and Indirect Speech for the SSC CGL exam is a great way to help in preparation. 

 Active and Passive Voice

1. Identify the passive voice sentence:

    a) The chef cooked a delicious meal.

    b) A delicious meal was cooked by the chef.

    c) The chef is cooking a delicious meal.

    d) The chef has cooked a delicious meal.

   Answer: b) A delicious meal was cooked by the chef.

 Explanation: In passive voice, the focus is on the action or the object receiving the action, not the doer. The structure is: “Object + was/were + past participle + by + Subject.”

2. Convert to passive voice: "She writes a letter."

    a) A letter was written by her.

    b) A letter is written by her.

    c) A letter will be written by her.

    d) A letter wrote by her.

 Answer: b) A letter is written by her.

 Explanation: Present simple active voice is converted to passive voice using “is/am/are + past participle.”

3. Choose the sentence in active voice:

    a) The car was repaired by the mechanic.

    b) The mechanic repairs the car.

    c) The car is being repaired by the mechanic.

    d) The car had been repaired by the mechanic.

Answer: b) The mechanic repairs the car.

Explanation: In active voice, the subject performs the action, typically following the structure: “Subject + verb + object.”

4. Convert to active voice: "The homework is completed by the student."

    a) The student completes the homework.

    b) The student is completing the homework.

    c) The student has completed the homework.

    d) The student completed the homework.

Answer: a) The student completes the homework.

Explanation: In active voice, the subject performs the action directly.

5. Identify the passive voice form of this sentence: "They will announce the results tomorrow."

    a) The results are announced tomorrow by them.

    b) The results will be announced by them tomorrow.

    c) The results have been announced by them tomorrow.

    d) The results will announce tomorrow by them.

Answer: b) The results will be announced by them tomorrow.

 Explanation: Future simple passive voice is formed as “will be + past participle.”

 Direct and Indirect Speech

6. Convert to indirect speech: "He said, 'I am reading a book.'"

    a) He said that he was reading a book.

    b) He said that he is reading a book.

    c) He said that he reads a book.

    d) He said that he has been reading a book.

Answer: a) He said that he was reading a book.

Explanation: When converting to indirect speech, present continuous tense changes to past continuous tense (am/are is converted to was/were).

7. Convert to direct speech: He said that he had finished his work.

    a) He said, "I finished my work."

    b) He said, "I have finished my work."

    c) He said, "I had finished my work."

    d) He said, "I finish my work."

Answer:b) He said, "I have finished my work."

Explanation: In indirect speech, past perfect is used to indicate a completed action in the past, which is shown as present perfect in direct speech.

8. Identify the indirect speech: "She said, 'I will call you tomorrow.'"

    a) She said that she would call me tomorrow.

    b) She said that she will call me tomorrow.

    c) She said that she would call me the next day.

    d) She said that she will call me the next day.

Answer: c) She said that she would call me the next day.

   Explanation: "Will" becomes "would," and "tomorrow" changes to "the next day" in indirect speech.

9. Convert to indirect speech: "They asked, 'Do you like chocolate?'"

    a) They asked if I like chocolate.

    b) They asked if I liked chocolate.

    c) They asked do I like chocolate.

    d) They asked did I like chocolate.

Answer: b) They asked if I liked chocolate.

Explanation: In indirect speech, present simple interrogative changes to past simple, and "do/does" is omitted.

10. Identify the correct indirect speech: "He said, 'I must leave now.'"

    a) He said that he must leave now.

    b) He said that he must leave then.

    c) He said that he had to leave then.

    d) He said that he has to leave now.

Answer: c) He said that he had to leave then.

Explanation: "Must" often changes to "had to," and "now" becomes "then" in indirect speech.

 Additional Questions

11. Convert to passive voice:

 "The teacher will explain the lesson."

    a) The lesson will be explained by the teacher.

    b) The lesson is explained by the teacher.

    c) The lesson was explained by the teacher.

    d) The lesson has been explained by the teacher.

   Answer: a) The lesson will be explained by the teacher.

   Explanation: Use “will be + past participle” for future passive voice.

12. Convert to active voice: 

"The song was sung by her."

    a) She was singing the song.

    b) She has sung the song.

    c) She sang the song.

    d) She sings the song.

   Answer: c) She sang the song.

   Explanation: In passive voice, the subject (performer) comes after the preposition "by" 

    and becomes the subject in active voice.

13. Identify the direct speech: 

He said that the movie was interesting.

    a) He said, "The movie was interesting."

    b) He said, "The movie is interesting."

    c) He said, "The movie has been interesting."

    d) He said, "The movie will be interesting."

   Answer: a) He said, "The movie was interesting."

   Explanation: In indirect speech, past simple remains past simple when converting 

   back to direct speech.

14. Convert to indirect speech:

 "She said, 'I can't find my keys.'"

    a) She said that she can't find her keys.

    b) She said that she couldn't find her keys.

    c) She said that she can't found her keys.

    d) She said that she couldn't found her keys.

 Answer: b) She said that she couldn't find her keys.

  Explanation: "Can't" becomes "couldn't" in indirect speech.

15. Convert to active voice: 

"The book was read by John."

    a) John reads the book.

    b) John is reading the book.

    c) John read the book.

    d) John was reading the book.

   Answer: c) John read the book.

   Explanation: In active voice, the subject directly performs the action.

16. Convert to direct speech:

 She told me that she was going to the market.

    a) She told me, "I am going to the market."

    b) She told me, "I was going to the market."

    c) She told me, "I were going to the market."

    d) She told me, "I have gone to the market."

   Answer: a) She told me, "I am going to the market."

   Explanation: Indirect past continuous converts to direct present continuous.

17. Convert to passive voice:

 "The team won the match."

    a) The match was won by the team.

    b) The match is won by the team.

    c) The match will be won by the team.

    d) The match has been won by the team.

   Answer: a) The match was won by the team.

  Explanation: Past simple active changes to “was/were + past participle” in passive voice.

18. Identify the passive voice sentence:

    a) The manager will review the report.

    b) The report has been reviewed by the manager.

    c) The manager reviews the report.

    d) The manager has reviewed the report.

   Answer: b) The report has been reviewed by the manager.

   Explanation: The use of “has been + past participle” indicates passive voice.

19. Convert to indirect speech: 

"He said, 'We are watching a movie.'"

    a) He said that we were watching a movie.

    b) He said that they were watching a movie.

   c) He said that we are watching a movie.

    d) He said that they are watching a movie.

   Answer: b) He said that they were watching a movie.

   Explanation: "We" changes to "they" and present continuous changes to past continuous.

20. Convert to direct speech: 

She explained that the project had been completed.

    a) She explained, "The project has been completed."

    b) She explained, "The project had been completed."

    c) She explained, "The project was completed."

    d) She explained, "The project is completed."

   Answer:b) She explained, "The project had been completed."

   Explanation: Indirect past perfect remains past perfect in direct speech.

These questions and explanations should help solidify understanding of active and passive voice, as well as direct and indirect speech, in preparation for the SSC CGL exam.

“Instead of preparing only for the cut-off, candidates should prepare for a safe score with high accuracy. Consistent mock analysis and smart attempts can significantly improve selection chances.”