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UPSC MainsENGLISH-COMPULSORY20115 Marks
Q13.

Rewrite the following sentences removing 'too ..... to': 1. He is too honest to steal. 2. He is too weak to run. 3. She is too shy to sing. 4. He was too shocked to speak. 5. The matter will be too complicated to resolve.

How to Approach

This question tests basic English grammar skills, specifically the ability to transform sentences by removing a particular grammatical construction ("too...to"). The approach involves understanding the meaning of the original sentences and then restructuring them using alternative grammatical structures that convey the same meaning. Focus should be on maintaining clarity and grammatical correctness in the rewritten sentences. Each sentence needs to be addressed individually, demonstrating a clear understanding of the transformation rule.

Model Answer

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Introduction

The English language, with its nuanced grammar, often presents challenges in sentence construction. The phrase "too...to" expresses inability – something is impossible because of a certain quality or degree. Rewriting sentences containing this construction requires a grasp of alternative grammatical structures that convey the same meaning without using "too...to". This exercise is fundamental to improving clarity and conciseness in written communication, skills crucial for effective expression in any field, including civil service. The following provides a rewritten version of each sentence, removing the specified construction while preserving the original intent.

Rewritten Sentences

Here are the rewritten sentences, removing the "too...to" construction:

  1. Original: He is too honest to steal.
  2. Rewritten: He is so honest that he would not steal. / He is very honest and would never steal.
  1. Original: He is too weak to run.
  2. Rewritten: He is so weak that he cannot run. / He is not strong enough to run.
  1. Original: She is too shy to sing.
  2. Rewritten: She is so shy that she cannot sing. / Her shyness prevents her from singing.
  1. Original: He was too shocked to speak.
  2. Rewritten: He was so shocked that he could not speak. / His shock left him speechless.
  1. Original: The matter will be too complicated to resolve.
  2. Rewritten: The matter will be so complicated that it cannot be resolved. / The matter will be very complicated and impossible to resolve. / The matter will be beyond resolution due to its complexity.

Explanation of Transformation

The transformation primarily involves replacing "too...to" with structures using "so...that" or alternative phrasing indicating inability. The key is to maintain the original meaning while adhering to correct grammatical principles. For example, replacing "too weak to run" with "He is not strong enough to run" utilizes a different phrasing to express the same lack of ability. Using "so...that" emphasizes the degree of the quality preventing the action.

Grammatical Considerations

  • "So...that" construction: This structure highlights the cause-and-effect relationship. The first clause describes the degree of a quality, and the second clause describes the resulting inability.
  • "Not enough" construction: This structure directly states the lack of a necessary quality.
  • Alternative phrasing: Using phrases like "prevents from" or "leaves him/her speechless" offers a more concise and elegant way to convey the meaning.

Conclusion

In conclusion, effectively rewriting sentences to remove the "too...to" construction requires a solid understanding of English grammar and the ability to express the same meaning using alternative structures. The transformations demonstrated above showcase the flexibility of the English language and the importance of choosing the most appropriate phrasing for clarity and conciseness. Mastering such grammatical transformations is a valuable skill for any aspirant aiming for effective communication in the UPSC examination and beyond.

Answer Length

This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.

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Additional Resources

Key Definitions

Grammatical Transformation
The process of altering the structure of a sentence or phrase while preserving its core meaning. This often involves substituting words or phrases with synonyms or restructuring the sentence to achieve a different emphasis or style.
Conciseness
The quality of being brief and to the point; expressing much in few words. Concise writing is valued for its clarity and efficiency.

Key Statistics

According to a 2023 study by Cambridge Assessment English, approximately 60% of candidates struggle with complex sentence structures in English language proficiency tests.

Source: Cambridge Assessment English, 2023

A 2022 report by the World Economic Forum identified analytical thinking and innovation as two of the top ten skills required for the future of work, both of which are enhanced by strong communication skills.

Source: World Economic Forum, Future of Jobs Report 2022

Examples

Transformation in Legal Documents

Legal documents often require precise and unambiguous language. Transforming sentences to avoid ambiguity, such as replacing "too...to" with more formal phrasing, is crucial for ensuring clarity and preventing misinterpretations.

Frequently Asked Questions

▶Is it always necessary to avoid using "too...to"?

Not necessarily. "Too...to" is grammatically correct and widely understood. However, in formal writing or when aiming for greater conciseness, alternative structures can be more effective.

Topics Covered

General EnglishSentence StructureGrammar
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