BIRLA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, MESRA

Assignment on:

Business Communication

Module -3

Submitted By: Submitted To:

Shivam Kumar Mr. Hemant Shrivastav
Roll No- MBA/40050/21
Class – MBA 1A
Email Id- [email protected]
Contact No- 7301919976
Session – 2021-23
 Contents

1) Differences between GD and Debate

2) Strategies that you can attempt in a GD
3) GD different from Extempore
4) Various strategies of reading and understanding
5) 100 Idioms and 100 Phrases
6) 100 Prefix and suffix
7) Improve our Comprehension
Q1. Write a short note on giving the difference between GD and Debate?

The distinction between group discussion and argument is that the former is more of a social
activity. Either the entire team wins or the entire team loses. In the discussion, on the other hand,
there is a clear winner.

A group discussion is a type of activity that takes place in 'groups.' The group engages in a
'conversation' about the topic. The name "group discussion" speaks for itself. A discussion plus a
group.

Organizations and institutions use group discussions. The GD (Group Conversation) is an effective
technique to evaluate their interpersonal skills, listening aptitude, and ability to contribute
effectively to the discussion. GD can also be used to evaluate a candidate's leadership,
management, problem-solving, and creative abilities.

A debate is a type of conversation that takes place between two people. Individuals 'argue' an issue
and compete to prove their point of view is correct. These individuals can also speak on behalf of
a group. Rather of the entire team speaking, the speakers take the stage and dispute.

Main differences between the Group Discussion and Debate are:

1. In most cases, a group discussion takes place in groups. A discussion, on the other hand, is
usually between two people who may or may not be representing a whole team.
2. In most cases, a group discussion takes place in groups. A discussion, on the other hand, is
usually between two people who may or may not be representing a whole team.
3. A group conversation should last between 10 and 40 minutes. A debate, on the other hand,
usually has a time limit of 30 to 100 minutes.
4. A group conversation can take place at any level, from institutional to social. A discussion,
on the other hand, can be held at any level from a competition to a parliamentary level.
Q2. Highlight the various strategies that you can attempt in a GD? How can you emerge as
a true leader in a GD situation?

A discussion group is a collection of people who meet informally or formally to discuss ideas,
solve problems, or make comments about something they care about. Meeting in person, having
conference calls, text messaging, or using a website such as an Internet forum are all common
ways to communicate. On such forums, as well as on established mailing lists, news groups, and
IRC channels, people respond, contribute comments, and make posts. Other members of the group
could respond by adding text or a picture.

Following strategies that we can attempt in a Group Discussion:

In organizations, public limited firms, and multinational corporations, group discussions now play
a significant role in the hiring process.

The major goal is to assess a candidate's breadth and depth of knowledge, as well as his or her
ability to persuasively deliver that knowledge orally, as well as his or her group management,
leadership, and team management skills.

To improve his or her chances of passing this key step of the selection process, a candidate must
focus on the following areas:

1) Subject Knowledge:
The first criterion for effective participation in a group discussion is subject expertise.
Candidates must have a broad understanding of a variety of topics, including
national/international affairs, hot social, political, and economic challenges, scientific and
environmental disputes, and current controversies.
Though the purpose of the group discussion is not to assess the candidate's
knowledge of current events, it is assumed that applicants have the perspective of an
educated man.
People with a broad range of knowledge are usually sought after in dynamic firms, so depth
of knowledge considerably boosts your chances.

2) Oral Communication Skills:

The capacity to talk effectively and eloquently is the second prerequisite for success in
group discussions. Because group discussions are mostly conducted through speech, good
oral communication is an essential component of any effective group discussion.

3) Listening Skills:
 It is one of the most critical communication skills for group discussion effectiveness. Only
by being an active listener can any person make a major contribution to group discussions.
Not only that, but active engagement in a group conversation as a listener makes a person
a successful leader, because a good leader is a good listener.

4) Appropriateness of Language:
The ability to use proper phrases and expressions demonstrates a candidate's command of
the language. Appropriate language indicates that there should be no grammatical or usage
errors.

5) Clarity of Expression:
The art of making your meaning plain to your audience is known as clarity. Clear thinking
is the key to clear expression. During a GD, sloppy, irrational, or inadequate reasoning
might lead to a lack of clarity.

6) Clear Articulation:
During a GD, the quality of a person's voice and articulation is crucial. With a happy voice
and good and clear articulation, a participant can easily impress others.

7) Non-verbal Clues:
Eye contact, bodily movements, gestures, facial expressions, and other nonverbal cues
speak louder than words. Employers examine the candidate's body language for signs of
uneasiness, cooperation, frustration, vulnerability, uncertainty, self-confidence,
defensiveness, and other personality traits. Self-assurance, cooperation, a good attitude,
openness of mind, and honesty must all be reflected in a person's body language.

8) Communicate Effectively:
In a group discussion, what matters is how well you express your ideas and how convincing
your arguments are to the interviewers and other participants. It's critical to communicate
clearly not only to get your argument through, but also to make a great impression with
your speech. Check out these basic exercises on YouTube to help you enhance your vocal
clarity and give a crisper speech.

Another thing to remember is that after you've made your opening statement, you shouldn't
sit back. Use the terms from the previous section to make an entry into the discussion
whenever you feel it is acceptable.

9) Avoid Deviating from the topic:

To stay on track, focus on the content of your speech rather than its duration to prevent
getting off track. If the conversation veers off subject, make an attempt to bring it back on
 course. Attempting to keep the group focused on the topic will show the interviewers that
you are a leader.

Tips which help us to emerge as a leader in Group Discussion:

• Learn the art of participation - The first and most important guideline for performing
effectively in a GD is to master the art of participation. Expect no one to compel you to
talk. Take the initiative, join the conversation, and share your thoughts with others. In a
group conversation, never shout and always wait your turn to speak. It's important to
remember that this is a conversation forum, not a battleground. Maintain a pleasant yet
forceful demeanor.

• Try to take the initiative - Don't wait for others to initiate the conversation. Always offer
to help and begin conversations with a strong sense of self-assurance. Introduce yourself
and your team members before moving on to the topic. One thing to keep in mind is that
the Group Discussion should only be initiated by someone who is well-versed in the
subject. If you're not sure of your own thoughts, don't take the chance.

• One must speak only if he is well prepared with the topic - Don't just speak for the sake
of getting points or getting a good grade; speak only when you're certain about what you're
saying. In group conversations, never rely on guesswork because it can occasionally
backfire. It is regarded exceedingly unprofessional to use slang or crack jokes in between
sessions.

• Never be rigid in group discussion - Always remember that the other individual is just as
knowledgeable as you are. Always pay attention to what he's saying before responding. Be
a patient and good listener. Don't just draw conclusions since there's always room for
debate. Debate intelligently and sensibly and strive to win over everyone.

• Read a lot and always keep your eyes and ears open - Always read the newspaper first
thing in the morning to keep up with what's going on in the world. To succeed in a group
discussion, an individual must be current with current events.

• Be alert always - A participant is usually given 15 minutes to consider the topic. You must
think quickly and cover as much ground as possible. Always be cautious with your words.
The text must be logical, concise, and well-supported by examples or real-life scenarios.
In between group conversations, don't yawn or assume a laid-back demeanor.

• Take care of your dressing as well - When attending a group discussion or interview,
avoid wearing showy clothing. Female applicants should likewise avoid wearing caked-on
 makeup or wearing a lot of jewelry. The clattering sounds of bangles might be distracting
during professional conversations. Wear business clothing and avoid bright colors.

• Direction Oriented - One of the most crucial qualities of a leader is that he or she never
loses sight of their goal. This holds true for GDs as well.

It's very easy for the conversation to veer off track. If you notice that the conversation is
deviating from its original topic, try to steer it back on track. This can be accomplished by
gently reminding everyone that "we've gotten a little off track."

• Patience - Do not engage in a debate. Try to be patient and listen to what others have to
say. If you disagree, you have the opportunity to explain why when it is your turn to speak.
If you notice someone not allowing the other members to talk, kindly request
that they do so.

• Body language - A leader's body language is always confident, yet it isn't intimidating to
his team members. He always appears friendly and genuinely interested in their
development. The same can be said for group talks.

Conclusion:

There is a wealth of information available about group work and the advantages of collaboration.
Students can obtain a deeper understanding of issues presented in class as well as develop skills
such as writing and communication when they spend time meeting in groups. Overall, it appears
that the whole is larger than the sum of its parts when it comes to group work. While creating,
monitoring, and evaluating groups is a recursive process, students benefit from active learning
strategies. Students learn about different backgrounds, cultures, ideas, and attitudes through group
work, which helps them build cooperation skills and social relationships. Group work does not
have to result in "group hatred," and if the instructor is adequately prepared to introduce and
support group involvement and participation, group work can generate very positive and long-term
results.
Q3. How is a GD different from the Extempore?

The word ‘Extempore’ has actual meaning lying in the context of stage or theatre performance that
are carried out without preparation or impromptu performances. An extempore speech is an
impromptu speech which the candidate is required to make on a topic given there and then. In
some instances, the panel provides the candidate write about a minute or so to organize his/her
thought before speaking.

An impromptu presentation puts the candidates to the test on the following:

– Ability to think on one's feet

– Topic analysis and identification of the problem to be solved

– Idea development

– Prioritization and sequencing to demonstrate logical thinking

- Communication skills

– Body language, confidence, poise, and composure, among other things

Candidates must be fluent, knowledgeable, and articulate to be good extempore speakers.

Tips for Extempore Speech:

➢ Mental Preparation:
Before giving a speech, make sure you know what you're going to say. Consider the issue
for a while and plan your speech flow. Understanding the audience and which direction
they are most likely to accept aids in the structuring of the speech flow.

➢ Start speaking in an even pace:

Don't get off to a rapid start because you'll likely run out of things to say.

➢ Confidence:
Even in abstract themes where the candidate's presence of mind, spontaneity, and analytical
skills are examined, confidence combined with knowledge always helps.

➢ Control on Speech:
Don't become emotional about the subject, don't get too personal on delicate topics, and
don't even stray from the issue by talking about unrelated topics. It is usually preferable to
 use your information intelligently while maintaining control over your words for a
satisfactory performance.

In the academic, business, and administrative worlds, group discussion is essential. It is a

methodical and planned speech interaction. Oral communication is used to exchange ideas,
emotions, and feelings in this setting. The exchange of ideas takes place in a planned and
systematic manner. The participants sit in a semi-circle, facing each other, and voice their opinions
on the specified topic/issue/problem.

It assists you in training as a student to discuss and fight about the provided issue, as well as voice
your opinions on serious subjects and in formal contexts. It boosts your ability to think, listen, and
speak. It also boosts your self-assurance. It's a useful tool for problem-solving, decision-making,
and personality evaluation. Academic success, popularity, and a good entrance or job offer may
all be enhanced by GD skills. As a result, being able to participate in a GD effectively and
confidently is critical. Participants should be able to talk with confidence, demonstrate leadership,
and motivate the group to achieve its objectives.
Q4. What are the various strategies of reading and understanding?

Reading is the act of obtaining and comprehending information in language from a printed media.
Reading is the act of constructing meaning from text. The researcher finds that reading must grow
such that the reader can comprehend the meaning of the passage as well as the meaning of the text,
based on the definitions.

Reading Comprehension Techniques in General When someone reads a picture book to a child
before they can read, the process of interpreting text begins. They may begin to correlate the words
on the page with the words they are hearing and the thoughts they represent after listening to the
words and seeing the pictures in the book.

Comprehension Questions and Answers

When students are asked various types of questions, they must find answers in a variety of ways,
such as locating literal answers in the text or relying on prior knowledge and then inferring
responses based on clues in the text.

Types of Reading:

✓ Intensive Reading:
Intensive reading is a style of reading that focuses on idioms and vocabulary that are taught
in the classroom and that can be found in poems, poetry, novels, or other sources.

✓ Extensive Reading:
Extensive reading is a style of reading in which students read literature for pleasure and to
improve their overall reading skills. For example, students read as many various types of
literature as they can, such as journals, newspapers, and magazines, primarily for
enjoyment and with only a basic knowledge of the contents.

✓ Aloud Reading:
Aloud reading is when you read something out loud and clearly. Reading poetry, dialogue,
and other types of texts, for example.

✓ Silent Reading:
The purpose of the silent reading activity is to teach pupils how to read silently so that they
can focus their attention and absorb the contents. Consider the students who are
memorizing a text.
Various strategies of reading and understanding:

The High 5 Reading Strategy is a simple and effective approach formulated to enhance the
comprehensive abilities of students. By using this technique, students are able to understand the
material and direct their attention to the details. It thus enhances students learning and helps them
prepare for an essay or report submission or even for a test.

▪ Activating background knowledge:

According to research, students who participate in activities that connect old and new
knowledge have higher comprehension. For example, a simple query such as "what do
you know about... (a specific topic)" will elicit previous knowledge of that issue from
students. This will enable them to connect what they're reading now to what they already
know, making the new material more intriguing and engaging. Instead of starting from
scratch, students can use this method to build on an existing schema.

▪ Questioning:
To improve comprehension, encourage students to frame questions before and after
reading. A right now inquiry, an analytical question, and a research question should all be
able to be reflected on by each learner.
Students must ponder what they have learned in order to answer "analytical question."
What do you think the author wants me to take away from this?
Students are encouraged to hunt for information outside of the text by using a "research
question." This enables more extensive active learning to take place.

▪ Analyzing text structure:

This necessitates pupils learning how to examine or grasp a text's structure. Students are
taught to recognize the manner in which authors organize their information. This could
be a cause-and-effect pattern, a problem-solution pattern, or a descriptive pattern like a
list, web, or matrix. Students can better comprehend the content if they understand the
pattern in which the material is given. Because each structure is unique and requires time
to understand, it is critical to teach all of the patterns of a text structure to students. They
should also be taught how to use subheadings, labels, captions, tables, graphs, and other
visual aids to help pupils comprehend the material.

▪ Visualization:
The fourth strategy emphasizes the significance of visualizing the content. Students
should be encouraged to create mental images of the material as they read it, as this will
 aid comprehension. According to research, students should imagine them as structural
images or diagrams rather than just photos, because photographs fade over time.

▪ Summarizing:
The final technique is to summarize what you've read. According to research, the
capacity to summarize improves comprehension. “The capacity to remove irrelevant
details, integrate related ideas, condense important concepts, and connect major themes
into short statements that convey the objective of a reading for the reader,” according to
Block and Pressley. It will be easier for a student to summarize the material if they
employ the other four tactics. They can use diagrams to summarize the subject, either
visually or in text.
Q5. Choose 100 idioms and 100 phrases. Give their meaning. Then use these idioms and
phrases in a sentence.

100 Idioms with their meaning

1) Stir up a hornets’ nest

Meaning - Provoke trouble
Example - It’s not that the management is not aware of few false bills here and there,
but they don’t call it because it would expose many and stir up a hornet’s nest.

2) Back against the wall

Meaning – Be in a difficult situation from where escape is difficult.
Example – With banks paying for his blood over default in payments, he has his back
against the wall.

3) Chase your tail-

Meaning - Spending a lot of time and energy doing a lot of things but actually
achieving too little.
Example - He's been chasing his tail all week collecting data but the report is still not
ready

4) Whole bag of tricks

Meaning - Means trying all the clever means to achieve something.
Example - It was really difficult to find the information even after applying the whole
bag of tricks.

5) Hit the road running

Meaning - Start performing immediately.
Example - She was our old employee. She hit the road running when she joined us
back.

6) Live in an ivory tower

Meaning - Living a lifestyle that saves you from the real-world problems.
Example - Her inexperience in dealing with tough situations is because she has lived
in an ivory tower

7) Live beyond means

Meaning - Spending more money than you can afford.
 Example - He has a habit of living beyond his means. Most of the times, you will find
him borrowing the money from his friends.

8) Have the world by its tail

Meaning - Very successful person who can choose from a lot of opportunities.
Example - Being the pioneers in the pharmaceutical industry, they are now having the
world by its tail.

9) Wooden spoon
Meaning - Imaginary prize for the last person in a race.
Example We won a wooden spoon at the Fashion show.

10) Keep up appearances

Meaning - Maintaining an outward show of prosperity or
wellbeing while hiding your difficulties.
Example - Keeping up the appearances was important for him to secure the new big
projects.

11) Top dog

Meaning - Very successful group, company, person, country etc.
Example - The economic survey proved that they are the top dogs of the IT industry.

12) Champagne on a beer budget

Meaning - Wanting expensive things that you cannot afford.
Example - She always buys things out of her budget. She has developed a taste for
champagne on beer budget.

13) Sink or swim

Meaning - fails or succeed.
Example - The test will decide if he sinks or swims.

14) Place in the sun

Meaning - Finding a place in the sun refers to a position which provides you all the
success and happiness you want in your life.
Example - Getting married into the renowned business family in the town, she found
a place in the sun.

15) Murphy's law

Meaning - Means that if anything can go wrong, it will.
Example - Let's be prepared for the worst but don't forget the Murphy's law.

16) Smash hit

Meaning - Refers to music, films which are very successful.
Example - His music became a smash hit in a week's time.
17) Miss the boat
Meaning - Failing to take advantage of an opportunity because of slow actions.
Example - I managed to get a discount of 10% but could not get an early bird offer.
Reaching late made me miss the boat.

18) On the pig's back

Meaning - Refers to a person in successful and well situation.
Example - The tourism in the state was on the pig's back before the terror attacks hit
the capital.

19) Rags to riches

Meaning - Becoming very rich while starting very poor.
Example - His innovative ideas in business got him from rags to riches.

20) Let slip through fingers

Meaning - Failing to obtain or keep up a good opportunity.
Example - This opportunity can be your breakthrough in the industry. Don't let it slip
through your fingers.

21) Landslide victory

Meaning - Overwhelming victory received by a candidate of political party at an
election.
Example - With a win of more of than 40% seats in the first two hours of counting,
they are expecting a landslide victory.

22) Make or break

Meaning - Circumstances causing total success or total ruin.
Example - The huge investments in this big project with make or break him.

23) Live on the breadline

Meaning - Having very little income.
Example - The partition of the country has left many people on the breadline.

24) Go up in smoke
Meaning - Something that ends before getting a result.
Example - With a vigilant police force around the town, the plan of antisocial
elements to cause chaos went up in smoke.

25) Go to the dogs

Meaning - Getting comparably less successful than before.
Example - With new corruption scams un-veiling every day, the country is going to
dogs.
26) Make a go of
Meaning - Succeeding in your enterprise.
Example - With his hard work and dedication, he has made a go of his new venture.

27) Flying start

Meaning - Something that is immediately successful.
Example - The film hit the box office with a flying start and collected the highest
revenue on day 1.

28) Dead in the water

Meaning - Plan or project that has ceased to function and is not expected to be
reactivated in future.
Example - Because of the revolt from the civil society, the plan to get the FDI in various
sectors is now dead in the water.

29) Go great guns

Meaning - Being successful.
Example - Ram's preparation for the final exams is going great guns. He scored 90%
marks in the practice test.

30) Foot in the door

Meaning - Small but good start with a possibility for a bright future.
Example - With customers coming in, his new venture has got a foot in the door.

31) Cut one's own throat

Meaning - Doing something that will cause your own failure.
Example - Raghav is not sincere in the class since the beginning. He is cutting his own
throat.

32) Cook someone's goose

Meaning - Spoil other person's chances of success.
Example - When the opponent team saw Indian batsmen taking wicket after wicket,
they realized that their goose was cooked.

33) Come up roses

Meaning - Successful end results even though there may be some initial hiccups.
Example - After initial hiccups, the project seems to be coming up roses.

34) Chance one's arm

Meaning - Deciding to do something even though the chances of success are very
little.
 Example - She knew there was little chance of getting through the audition test but
she decided to chance her arm.

35) Cake not worth the candle

Meaning - Refers to something in which result vs. efforts are too less.
Example - He worked very hard to organize the party but very few guests walked in.
The cake wasn't worth the candle.

36) Bottom fell out

Meaning - Refers to a situation when a plan or project fails.
Example - When the police announced a red alert in the city, the bottom fell out of their
plan to hold a rally.

37) Blow up in face

Meaning - Refers to a situation when a plan or project suddenly fails.
Example - It was difficult to get a place in the train to Mumbai. It blew up in the face
when a train derailed and blocked the track.

38) In the bag

Meaning - Refers to a situation when you are sure that success
is sure.
Example - The wickets of opponent team fell down very fast,
victory seemed to be in the bag at the end of 25 over.

39) Reduce to tears

Meaning - Getting into tears because of some one's behavior.
Example - Her best friend stopped talking to her. This reduced her to tears.

40) Not turn a hair

Meaning - Refers to not exhibiting any emotion where it is expected.
Example – He didn't turn a hair even after his office was raided by the
CBI.

41) Speak volumes

Meaning - Expresses a reaction without words.
Example - She came to pick me at the station at an odd hour. Her actions spoke
volumes about her brevity.

42) Makes your flesh crawl

Meaning - Something that makes you feel disgusting or nervous.
Example - The sight of the accident made my flesh crawl.

43) Swallow one's pride

Meaning - Accepting something humiliating or embarrassing.
 Example - When his son was caught cheating in the exam. He had to swallow his pride
and meet the principal.

44) Look on the bright side

Meaning - View an unpleasant situation in a positive
light.
Example - You met with an accident but look on the
bright side you managed to get away just with some
bruises.

45) Tongue-tied
Meaning - Difficulty in expressing yourself because of nervousness or embarrassment.
Example - As her prospective in laws came to see her, she was completely tongue
tied.

46) Proud as a peacock

Meaning - Refers to an extremely proud person.
Example - His son is has finally become a doctor. He is as proud as a peacock.

47) Lick one's wounds -

Meaning - Trying to regain their confidence or boost up the spirits after a defeat.
Example - Raja is licking his wounds after being dropped from the Indian Cricket
Team.

48) Hard as nails

Meaning - Refers to a person without sentiments and sympathy for anyone.
Example - He has become as hard as a nail after his brother was brutally murdered.

49) Lump in your throat

Meaning - Refers to a tight feeling in your throat because of an emotion like
sadness or gratitude.
Example - After all the hardships, I saw my son winning a gold medal today I
had a lump in my throat.

50) Go bananas
Meaning - Refers to someone who behaves in a crazy way out of emotions.
Example - Your decision to go abroad for a year will make your family go bananas.

51) Keep a stiff upper lip

Meaning - Refers to a person who doesn't show off his emotions.
Example - He heard the news about his father's demise but kept a stiff upper lip.

52) Beard the lion in his den

Meaning - Challenge someone in his own area.
 Example - If he doesn't come to see me today, I'll have to beard the lion in his den.

53) Groan inwardly

Meaning - Refers to a feeling where you want to express despair, disapproval or
distress, but you keep quiet.
Example - She was quite disappointed at the sarcastic remark by her friend but looking
at the situation groaned inwardly.

54) Have your heart in the right place

Meaning - Refers to a person with good intentions; even though the results are not that
impressive.
Example - The dinner she had cooked wasn't the best but she had her heart in the right
place.

55) Pull out all the stops

Meaning - Doing everything you can to make something successful.
Example - The deadline for the project is fast arriving; we have pulled out all the stops
for timely completion.

56) Buckle down

Meaning - Doing some hard work with determination and full attention.
Example - Getting through the exam for civil services is possible when you have
buckled down yourself.

57) First out of the gate

Meaning - Being the first one to make a start at something.
Example - John and his friends had decided to voice their opinion against the new
economic policy. John was the first one to be out of the gate.

58) Going places

Meaning - Exhibiting talent and ability that will lead to a successful future.
Example - Rakesh was a performer at the school sports club. It was obvious that he was
going places.

59) Have one's heart set on-

Meaning - Possessing a determination to obtain something.
Example - He has not become a renowned cardiologist just by chance. He has his heart
set on it after his father passed away with a cardiac arrest.

60) Make headway

Meaning - Progress in what you are trying to achieve.
 Example - The police have made headway with their investigation in the terror attack
on the city last Friday.

61) Punch above one's weight-

Meaning - Performing beyond your ability.
Example - He was not the best swimmer around but he could win the gold medal at the
state swimming competition by working hard and punching above his weight in the
finals.

62) Sink your teeth into -

Meaning - doing something with a lot of energy and enthusiasm.
Example - Marie joined the badminton coaching classes. She sank her teeth into the
practice sessions.

63) Stand one's ground -

Meaning - Maintaining your position.
Example - He stood his ground in support of his friend in spite of several family
interferences.

64) Close to home –

Meaning - A comment which is true and makes you uncomfortable is close to home.
Example - Tom's comment about his friend's unethical activities was quite close to
home. He looked quite embarrassed.

65) Carry the torch for -

Meaning - Having strong feelings for someone who cannot be yours.
Example - He has been carrying a torch for Manta, who is now married to Nitin, since
they studied together in college.

66) Cork up something -

Meaning - Failing to express your emotions.
Example - She did not let her grief pour out when her father passed away. It’s not good
for her to cork up his feelings.

67) Cut to the quick -

Meaning - Hurting someone deeply or offending them.
Example - Joe had worked for 10 years with all his loyalty for his company. He was
cut to the quick when his boss held him responsible for the theft.

68) Fish out of water -

Meaning - Feeling uncomfortable in unfamiliar surroundings.
Example - Being French, I felt like a fish out of water in the group of Japanese.
69) Bee in one's bonnet -
Meaning - Carrying an idea which constantly occupies your thoughts.
Example - She is not happy in Africa. She has a bee in the bonnet about moving to
Dubai.

70) Deep down -

Meaning - Describing what a person really feels deep inside or what is he like.
Example - He appears to be indifferent to the success or failure of his children but deep
down he is highly concerned.

71) Deliver the goods -

Meaning - Do what is expected or promised.
Example - I have given my car to a new mechanic for repair, hope he delivers the goods.

72) Fine-tooth comb -

Meaning - Examining something carefully to not miss out any details.
Example - The boss examined my report with a fine- tooth comb before submitting it
to the senior management.

73) Explore all avenues-

Meaning - Trying out every possibility to get a result.
Example - It is a difficult thing to do but if we really want it done, we must explore all
avenues.

74) Fast track something –

Meaning - Rating something higher on your priority list to achieve the desired result.
Example - In view of the seriousness of the crime, the civil society is pressing up on a
fast track decision from the court.

75) Get ducks in a row

Meaning - Getting your things well organized.
Example - To ensure a successful product launch, we must get our ducks in a row.

76) Get the show on the road -

Meaning - Putting up a plan or idea into action.
Example - Now that we have completed all the legal formalities, let's get the show on
the road.

77) Keep your fingers on the pulse -

Meaning - Being constantly aware of the most recent developments.
Example - An entrepreneur must keep his fingers on the pulse of the market to be
successful.
78) Mean business -
Meaning - Being serious about what you announce.
Example - Now that all our policies about work are put up on intranet, we mean
business.

79) Think on your feet -

Meaning - Adjusting quickly to changes and making fast decisions.
Example - A good sales man must be able to think on his feet to close the deal.

80) Sail through something -

Meaning - Being successful in doing something without difficulty.
Example - The presentation at the national conference was extremely important for the
company. We sailed through it.

81) Tricks of the trade:

Meaning - Clever or expert way of doing something.
Example - Being into the construction business for last 10 years, I know all tricks of
the trade.

82) Not let grass grow under feet -

Meaning - Don't delay in getting something done.
Example - As soon as he finished all the registration formalities, he put the house on
sale. He doesn't let the grass grow under his feet.

83) Work like a charm -

Meaning - Works very well or has the desired effect.
Example - I had cloves from my sore throat and they worked like a charm.

84) Back-room boys –

Meaning - People who perform important work but have no contact with the public.
Example - Our back- room boys deserve applause for the success of this
advertisement.

85) Dead wood -

Meaning - People or things which are no longer useful or necessary.
Example - The Company bought in a lot of new computers. They no longer want the
dead woods.

86) Get the axe -

Meaning - lose the job.
Example - The projects team was undergoing a major restructuring; recruitment
executives were the first to get the axe.
87) Plum job -
Meaning - Desirable position which is well-paid and considered relatively easy.
Example - This looks like a plum job but it has its own bunch of complications.

88) Shape up or ship out –

Meaning - This expression is used to warn someone that if they do not improve their
ways, they will have to leave their job.
Example - When Tom started neglecting the customers, he was told to shape up or ship
out.

89) Golden handshake –

Meaning - Big sum of money given to a person when they leave a company or retire.
Example - The management of various PSUs wanted to cut down on the man power.
They offered a golden hand shake to many of their aged employees.

90) Separate sheep from goats -

Meaning - Examining a group of people and deciding their suitability
Example - Audition test was conducted by the director to separate sheep from goats.

91) Waiting in the wings –

Meaning - Waiting for an opportunity to take action, mostly to replace someone else in
their job.
Example - The senior manager is going to retire in next 2 months. Two of his juniors
who are waiting in the wings will have a fierce competition.

92) Eat, sleep and breathe something -

Meaning - Being so enthusiastic and passionate about something that you think about
it all the time.
Example – My son has recently learnt cycling. He eats, sleeps and breathes it now.

93) With bells on -

Meaning - When you are delighted and eager to go somewhere, you are said to go with
bells on.
Example - The New Year party at the beach is most awaited. I will be there - with bells
on
94) Blood, sweat and tears -
Meaning - Something that requires a lot of effort and hard work.
Example - Being the team of Indian cricket team is not just a matter of luck for him, it is his
blood, sweat and tears which has got him here.

95) Have on the brain -

Meaning - Thinking or talking about it all day long.
Example - He has just got engaged. Now, he has his fiancé on his brain all the time.

96) Fling yourself into -

Meaning - Doing something with a lot of energy and enthusiasm.
Example - Flinging himself into the exercise routine is the reason for his good physique.

97) Raring to go -
Meaning - Being very eager and enthusiastic about the idea of doing something.
Example - My kids wish to see the animals. They are raring to go to zoo.

98) Xerox subsidy -

Meaning - Using the office photocopier for personal use.
Example - The office now has a strict policy about Xerox subsidy.

99) Get a grip on yourself -

Meaning - Controlling your feelings to deal with a situation.
Example - Reema saw her jewelry and cash missing from the almirah. After the initial shock,
she got a grip on herself and called up the police.

100) Hang on by fingernails -

Meaning - Continuing to do something in a very difficult situation.
Example - The market of watches has suffered a big loss after the arrival of mobile phones.
The survivors are just hanging on by their fingernails.

100 phrases and their meanings

1) A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush- Having something that is certain is much
better than taking a risk for more, because chances are you might be losing everything.

2) A blessing in disguise- Something good that isn’t recognized by first

3) Bull in china shop- One who causes damage

4) A chip on your shoulder- Being upset for something that happened in the past
5) A damp squib- Complete failure

6) A dime A dozen- Anything that is common and easy to get

7) A doubting Thomas- A skeptic who needs physical or personal evidence in order to
believe something

8) A drop in the bucket- A very small part of something big or whole

9) A fool and his money are easily parted- It’s easy for a foolish person to lose his/ her
money

10) A gentleman at large- An unreliable person

11) A green horn- Inexperienced

12) A house divided against itself cannot stand- Everyone involved must unify and function
together or it will not work out.

13) A leopard can’t change his spots- You cannot change who you are

14) A lost cause- A hopeless case, a person or situation having no hope of positive change.

15) A man of straw- A weak person

16) A mare’s nest- A false invention

17) A penny saved is a penny earned- By not spending money, you are saving money (little
by little)

18) A picture paints a thousand words- A visual presentation is far more descriptive than
words

19) A piece of cake- A task that can be accomplished very easily

20) A slap on the wrist- A very mild punishment

21) A stalking horse- Pretense

22) A steal- Very inexpensive, a bargain

23) A taste of your own medicine- When you are mistreated the same way you mistreat others

24) A toss-up- A result hat is still unclear and can go either way

25) A wolf in sheep’s clothing- A dangerous person pretending harmless

26) ABC: Very common knowledge about to- Ready to, just going to
27) Above all- Mainly, especially

28) Above board- Fair and honest

29) According to- In the order of; on the authority of

30) Actions speak louder than words- It’s better to actually do something than hust talk about
it

31) Add fuel to the fire- Whenever something is done to make a bad situation even worse than
it is

32) Against the clock- Rushed and short on time

33) All (day, week, month, year) long- The entire day, week, month, year

34) All along- All the time, from the beginning (without change)

35) All and Sundry- Without making any distinction

36) All bark and no bite- When someone is threatening and/ or aggressive but not willing to
engage in a fight

37) All Greek to me- Meaningless and incomprehensible like someone who cannot read,
speak, or

38) All in all- Considering everything

39) All in the same boat- When everyone is facing the same challenges

40) All of a sudden- Suddenly, without warning (All at once)

41) All right- Acceptable, fine; yes, okay

42) Alpha and omega- First and last letter of Greek alphabet, means beginning and end

43) An arm and a leg- Very expensive, A large amount of money

44) An axe to grind- To have a dispute with someone

45) An eye wash- A pretense

46) An iron hand- By force

47) Apple to my eye- Someone who is cherished above all others

48) As a matter of fact- Really, actually (also: as to)

49) As for- Regarding, concerning (also: as to)

50) As high as a kite- Anything that is high up in the sky

51) As soon as- Just after, when

52) As usual- as is the general case, as is typical

53) At all- To any degree (also: in the least)

54) At heart- Basically, fundamentally

55) At last- Finally, after a long time

56) At least- A minimum of, no fewer (or less) than

57) At odds- In dispute

58) At sixes and seven- Persons who are having different opinions

59) At the drop of a hat- Willing to do something immediately

60) Back and call- At the service

61) Back and forth- In a backward and forward motion

62) Back seat driver- People who criticize from the sidelines, much like someone giving
unwanted advice

63) Back to square one- Having to start all over again

64) Back to the drawing board- When an attempt fails and it’s time to start all over

65) Bag and baggage- with all goods

66) Baker’s dozen- Thirteen

67) Bank on- Depend on, count on

68) Barking up the wrong tree- A mistake made in something you are trying to achieve

69) Bated breath- In anxiety, expectancy

70) Beat a dead horse- To force an issue that has already ended
71) Beating around the bash- Avoiding the main topic, not speaking directly about the issue

72) Bend over backwards- Do whatever it takes to help. Willing to do anything

73) Between a Rock and a Hard place- Stuck between two very bad options

74) Between Scylla and Charybdis- Choice between two unpleasant alternatives

75) Between the cup and the lips- On the point of achievement

76) Bite off more than you can chew- To take on a task that is a way to big

77) Bite your tongue- To avoid talking

78) Black and white- In writing

79) Blood is thicker than water- The family bond is closer than anything else

80) Blow hot and cold- Having no stand, shows favor at one time and unfavored at another

81) Blue moon- A rare event or occurrence

82) Body and soul- Entirely

83) Break a leg- A superstitious way to say ‘Good Luck’ without saying ‘Good Luck’,

84) Buy a lemon- To purchase a vehicle that constantly gives problems or stops running after
you drive it

85) By & by- Gradually

86) By all means- Certainly, definitely, naturally (also: of course); using any possible way or
method

87) By far- By a great margin, clearly

88) By fits and starts- Irregularly

89) By heart- By memorizing

90) By hook or by crook- By any means

91) By leaps and bound- speedily

92) By oneself- Alone, without assistance

93) By the way- Incidentally

94) Call a spade a spade- Straight talks

95) Can’t cut the mustard- Someone who isn’t adequate enough to compete or participate

96) Cast iron stomach- Someone who has no problems, complications or ill effects with eating
anything

97) Cats and bull story- Untrue story

98) Cats and dogs- Heavy rain

99) Charley horse- stiffness in the leg/ A leg cramp

100) Chew someone out- Verbally scold someone

Q6. Give 100 words each with -prefix and -suffix?

PREFIX MEANING EXAMPLES

biannual, bicycle, bifocals, bisect,
bi- two
bivalve, biweekly
circum- around circumstance, circumvent, circumnavigate
decode, decrease, deflate, degenerate,
de- from
depress
non- not nonsense, nonentity, nondescript
co- with co-worker, co-pilot, co-operation
disagree, disallow, disarray, disconnect,
dis- not
disloyal, disrespect
extracurricular, extraordinary, extra-
extra- more than
terrestrial
en- to put into encrypt, enmesh
em- cause to embrace, embed
exceed, exclusive, exhale, explosion, ex-
ex- out of
wife
fore- before forearm, forecast, forerunner, foresee
homo- same homosexual, homonuclear, homoplastic
im- without impossible, improper, impure
 hyper- above hyperactive, hyperventilate
in- not inaction, incapable, invisible
mal- bad malady, malicious, malnourished
infrastructure, infrared, infrasonic,
infra- below
infraspecific
mid- middle midlife, midnight
inter-, interact, intermediate, intergalactic,
between
intra- intranet, interstellar
misinform, misinterpret, mislead,
mis- wrong
misplace, mistake
macro- large macroeconomics, macromolecule
percent, percussion, perfect, perturb,
per- completely
pervade
microscope, microbiology, microfilm,
micro- small
microwave
pre- before prefix, preheat, prehistory, premature
mono- one monotone, monobrow, monolithic
proactive, produce, profess, program,
pro- before
progress, propel
omni- all omnibus, omnivore, omnipotent
react, reappear, reform, report, rerun,
re- again
retrieve, revert, revise
para- beside parachute, paramedic, paradox
submerge, submarine, sub-category,
sub- under
subtitle
post- after post-mortem, postpone, post-natal
transatlantic, transcribe, transfer,
trans- across
transform
semi- half semicircle, semi-final, semiconscious
tri- three triangle, triathlon, tricycle, trilateral
superfood, superstar, supernatural,
super- above
superimpose
un- opposite unable, undo, unequal, unusual, untie
therm- heat thermometer, thermostat, thermodynamic
antibiotic, antidepressant, antidote,
anti against
antisocial
uni- one unicycle, universal, unilateral, unanimous
Suffix Meaning Suffix Examples
Word
-able, can be done doable, identifiable, predictable, possible
ible
-al, ial has property of personal, partial, legal,
-ant having an effect disinfectant, coolant, accelerant
–based performing a major part of computer-based, oil-based, genetic-based
–cy state or quality accuracy, literacy, urgency,
-ed past tense of verb turned, ruined, cooked, cleaned
–ee person affected by something employee, interviewee, trainee, addressee
-en made of, being made golden, broaden, lighten
-er comparative higher, lighter, sooner, later
-er one who perform or do something doer, painter, singer, performer
-est superlative slightest, lightest, best, biggest
–free without hasslefree, carefree, debt-free, pain-free
–ful full of grateful, forgetful, fearful, careful, joyful
–hood condition, period, state childhood, brotherhood, adulthood,
motherhood
–ic having property of linguistic, photographic, electric, democratic,
heroic
–ics study of genetics, electronics, aeronautics
–ify giving quality to something defy, clarify, purify, solidify, classify
–ing present participle cooking, dancing, running
–ism behaviour or belief liberalism, modernism, heroism
-ist one who follows certain Philanthropist, anarchist, optimist, activist
behaviours or belief
–(t)ion act or process reaction, action, projection
–(i)ty state of extremity, infinity, sanity
–(t)ive adjective active, motive, positive
–ize, -ise bring about a condition or state modernize/modernise, colonize/colonise
–less without fearless, careless, meaningless
–like resemble another alike, bird-like, child-like
–ly, -y having \quickly, quietly, wordy, handy
–ment action, process fulfilment, enjoyment, development
–ness state of, quality Happiness, newness, kindness, effectiveness,
openness
–ocracy type of ruling body democracy, autocracy, meritocracy,
bureaucracy
–ocrat person ruling autocrat, technocrat, democrat
–ology, - study of archaeology, geology, biology, physiological,
ological biological,
–ous having callous, joyous, religious
–proof safe, protected against stain-proof, waterproof, dustproof,
soundproof
–ship state or experience of specific partnership, entrepreneurship, professorship,
position leadership
-ee individual does something referee, employee, trustee, retiree

-eer engaged in something, associated auctioneer, volunteer, engineer, profiteer

with something
-er someone who performs an action helper, teacher, preacher, dancer

-ion the action or process of celebration, opinion, decision, revision

-ism theory, act or belief criticism, humanism, professionalism,

patirotism
-ity the state or condition of probability, equality, abnormality, civility

-ment the action or result of movement, retirement, abandonment,

establishment
-ness a state or quality fondness, awareness, kindness, darkness

-or a person who is something distributor, investigator, translator, conductor

-sion state or being depression, confusion, tension, compulsion

-ship position held worship, ownership, courtship, internship

-th state or quality strength, labyrinth, depth, warmth

-able, - capable of being preventable, adaptable, predictable, credible

ible
-al pertaining to theatrical, natural, criminal, seasonal

-ant inclined to or tending to vigilant, defiant, brilliant, reliant

-ary of or relating to budgetary, planetary, military, honorary

-ful full of or notable of grateful, beautiful, wonderful, fanciful

-ic relating to iconic, organic, heroic, poetic

-ious, - having qualities of gracious, cautious, humorous, fabulous

ous
-ive quality or nature of creative, expensive, expressive, pensive

-less without something hopeless, faultless, fearless, restless

-y made up of or characterized by brainy, fruity, tasty, grouchy

-ed past-tense version of a verb laughed, climbed, called, missed

-en become soften, fasten, lengthen, strengthen

-er action or process, making an faster, bigger, fuller, longer

adjective comparative
-ing verb form/present participle of an laughing, swimming, driving, writing
action
-ize, -ise to cause or to become memorialize, authorize, comm

-ly in what manner something is bravely, simply, honestly, gladly

being done
-ward in a certain direction backward, wayward, awkward, afterward

-wise in relation to clockwise, edgewise, lengthwise, otherwise

Q7. How can we improve our comprehension?

Reading comprehension is the ability to comprehend or understand, what you are reading. This is
an intentional and active part of reading and takes place before, during and after you read
something. By being able to comprehend what you are reading, you can extract meaning from the
text and better realize what the author is trying to convey.

There are two components of reading comprehension: text comprehension and vocabulary
knowledge. Vocabulary knowledge is the ability to understand the language being used, while text
comprehension is using this language to develop an awareness of what the meaning is behind the
text.

Why are reading comprehension skills important?

Reading comprehension is important for several reasons and can provide many benefits. Being
able to effectively read can improve both your personal and professional life and can increase your
overall enjoyment of reading. Knowing how to understand a text can help boost your knowledge
in certain areas and help you learn new skills and information faster.

Additional benefits of good reading comprehension skills include:

• Being able to understand, analyze and respond to documents and written communication
in the workplace
• Improved your ability to write clearly and effectively
• The ability to comprehend and engage in current events that are in written form such as
newspapers
• Increased ability to focus on reading for an extended period
• Better enjoyment of and motivation to read

7 reading strategies you can use to improve your comprehension skills

There are several reading strategies that you can begin implementing today to improve your
reading comprehension skills. The more you practice, the better you will become at understanding
what you are reading. The following are seven simple strategies you can use to work on your
comprehension skills:

1. Improve your vocabulary.

2. Come up with questions about the text you are reading.
3. Use context clues.
4. Look for the main idea.
5. Write a summary of what you read.
6. Break up the reading into smaller sections.
7. Pace yourself.
1. Improve your vocabulary

Knowing what the words you are reading mean can improve your ability to comprehend the
meaning of the text. To improve your vocabulary, you can:

• Take an online vocabulary quiz to assess your current level of vocabulary understanding
• Use flashcards to quiz yourself on words you don’t know once or twice a week
• Make a point to use newly learned words in verbal and written communication
• Read as much as possible to improve your ability to guess what a word means in a certain
context
• Make a list of unfamiliar words as you read and look them up in the dictionary

2. Come up with questions about the text you are reading

Asking questions about what you are reading can help improve your reading comprehension by
allowing you to become invested in the text. It can also broaden your overall understanding of
what you are reading by enabling you to explore themes, motifs and other components of text that
you otherwise wouldn’t inquire about. The following are examples of questions you could pose as
you read:

• Why did the author begin the book at that location?

• What kind of relationship do these two characters share?
• What do we know about the main character up to this point in the book?
• Are there any themes that have consistently come up throughout the book? If so, what do
they mean?

The more specific your questions, the more likely you will gain further insight into the text and its
meaning.

3. Use context clues

Using context clues is a great way to understand what you are reading even if you don’t know all
the vocabulary being used. Context clues can be found in the words and sentences surrounding the
word that you aren’t familiar with. To use context clues, you can focus on the key phrases or ideas
in a sentence and deduce the main idea of a sentence or paragraph based on this information. You
can also look for nearby words that are synonyms or antonyms of the word you don’t know.

4. Look for the main idea

Identifying the main idea of a paragraph or article can help you determine the importance of the
article. Understanding why what you’re reading is important can give you a better comprehension
of what the author is trying to convey. When reading, pause every few paragraphs and see if you
can decipher what the main idea is. Then, try to put the main idea in your own words for even
further understanding.

5. Write a summary of what you read

A great way to increase your knowledge of what you have read is to write a summary.
Summarizing requires you to decide what is important in the text and then put it in your own words.
Summarizing allows you to determine if you truly understand what you have read and better
remember what you have read in the long term.

6. Break up the reading into smaller sections

If you are reading longer or more challenging text, consider breaking it up into smaller sections.
For example, you could read two paragraphs at a time and then pause to quickly summarize what
you just read in your mind. Breaking up what you are reading can help you feel less overwhelmed
and give you a better chance of truly comprehending the information in the text.

7. Pace yourself

Pacing yourself is also an effective way to work on your reading comprehension skills by allowing
you to set realistic goals for your reading practice and habits. This is especially true for books or
other literature that you find challenging. Set a goal for yourself that you know you can meet each
day. For example, rather than saying that you want to read an entire book in two days, say that you
will read three chapters a night. This allows you to reach your goals and also provides adequate
time for you to process what you are reading between each session.