Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Vocabulary is a cornerstone of effective communication, particularly in the context of the Civil Services Examination. The ability to articulate thoughts precisely and comprehensively is crucial for both written and oral responses. This question assesses a candidate’s command over the English language by requiring them to demonstrate understanding of specific words through sentence construction. A well-crafted sentence not only uses the word correctly but also reveals its subtle shades of meaning, showcasing a nuanced understanding of the language.
Sentence Construction
Here are sentences using each of the provided words, designed to clearly illustrate their meaning:
- Ubiquitous: The presence of mobile phones has become ubiquitous in modern society, with nearly everyone owning one.
- Ephemeral: The beauty of cherry blossoms is ephemeral, lasting only a few days before the petals fall.
- Pernicious: The pernicious effects of misinformation can erode public trust in institutions.
- Laconic: His laconic response to the complex question suggested a lack of interest or understanding.
- Gregarious: She is a gregarious individual who thrives in social settings and enjoys meeting new people.
- Propinquity: The propinquity of the two villages facilitated frequent trade and cultural exchange.
- Obfuscate: The politician attempted to obfuscate the truth about the scandal with vague and misleading statements.
- Alacrity: She accepted the invitation with alacrity, eager to attend the event.
- Cacophony: The construction site produced a cacophony of sounds, making it difficult to concentrate.
- Proclivity: He has a proclivity for abstract art, often spending hours analyzing its symbolism.
Further Elaboration on Word Usage
To further demonstrate understanding, consider how these words might be used in the context of UPSC-relevant topics:
- Governance: The ubiquitous nature of digital technology presents both opportunities and challenges for effective governance.
- International Relations: The ephemeral nature of alliances in international politics requires constant reassessment of strategic partnerships.
- Social Issues: The pernicious effects of caste discrimination continue to plague Indian society despite constitutional safeguards.
- Personality & Ethics: A laconic leader might be perceived as decisive, but also as lacking empathy.
- Economic Development: The propinquity of India to resource-rich countries in Africa offers opportunities for economic cooperation.
Table Illustrating Word Families & Related Terms
| Word | Part of Speech | Related Term | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ubiquitous | Adjective | Ubiquity (Noun) | The ubiquity of plastic pollution is a global concern. |
| Ephemeral | Adjective | Ephemerality (Noun) | The ephemerality of life reminds us to cherish each moment. |
| Pernicious | Adjective | Perniciously (Adverb) | The rumour spread perniciously through the community. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, demonstrating a strong vocabulary is essential for effective communication in the UPSC examination. The ability to use words accurately and contextually showcases a candidate’s intellectual capacity and analytical skills. Constructing clear and concise sentences, as demonstrated above, is a fundamental skill that contributes to a well-written and persuasive answer. Continued reading and practice are vital for expanding one’s vocabulary and refining language proficiency.
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.