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UPSC MainsENGLISH-COMPULSORY202310 Marks
Q11.

He scarcely comes to see me now.

How to Approach

This question, while seemingly simple, tests understanding of grammatical tense and implied meaning. The approach should focus on identifying the tense used ("present perfect") and then elaborating on the reasons *why* someone might cease regular visits. The answer should explore potential relational dynamics, emotional distance, and life changes. A strong answer will demonstrate nuanced understanding of human relationships and the ability to infer meaning beyond the literal words. The structure will involve identifying the tense, explaining its implications, and then providing a range of possible explanations.

Model Answer

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Introduction

The sentence "He scarcely comes to see me now" expresses a decline in the frequency of visits from a male individual. The use of the adverb "scarcely" coupled with the present perfect tense ("comes") indicates a change over time – a past habit that is now rarely occurring. This isn't simply a statement of current absence, but a lament about a diminished relationship. Understanding the implications of this statement requires exploring the potential reasons behind this change, ranging from practical constraints to emotional distance and evolving life circumstances. The sentence hints at a sense of loss or disappointment on the part of the speaker.

Understanding the Grammatical Structure

The sentence employs the present perfect tense ("comes") with the adverb "scarcely." This combination is crucial. The present perfect doesn't specify *when* the visits stopped, only that they have decreased significantly. "Scarcely" emphasizes the rarity of these visits, highlighting a noticeable difference from a previous, more frequent pattern. This suggests a gradual decline rather than a sudden cessation.

Possible Reasons for Reduced Visits

1. Practical Constraints & Life Changes

  • Geographical Distance: The individual may have moved to a different city or country due to work, education, or personal reasons. This increased distance naturally limits the possibility of frequent visits.
  • Work Commitments: Increased work responsibilities, demanding schedules, or frequent travel could significantly reduce available free time.
  • Family Obligations: New family commitments, such as the birth of a child or caring for elderly parents, may take precedence over social visits.
  • Health Issues: Either the visitor or the speaker may be experiencing health problems that make travel or social interaction difficult.

2. Relational Dynamics & Emotional Distance

  • Strain in the Relationship: A disagreement, misunderstanding, or unresolved conflict could lead to emotional distance and a reluctance to visit.
  • Loss of Shared Interests: Over time, individuals may develop different interests and priorities, leading to a natural drift in the relationship.
  • Changing Priorities: Both individuals may have evolved and their lives have moved in different directions, making it harder to maintain the same level of connection.
  • Unrequited Feelings: If the speaker harbors romantic feelings that are not reciprocated, the visitor might subtly distance themselves.

3. External Factors & Circumstances

  • Social Circle Changes: The visitor may have become involved in a new social circle that occupies their time and attention.
  • Financial Constraints: Travel expenses can be a significant barrier, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources.
  • Global Events: Events like pandemics (e.g., COVID-19) or geopolitical instability can restrict travel and social interaction.

Illustrative Scenarios

Consider a scenario where the speaker is an elderly parent and the "he" is their adult child. The reduced visits could stem from the child's demanding career and family responsibilities. Alternatively, if the speaker and the visitor were close friends, a falling out over a political disagreement could explain the decline in visits. The context is crucial for interpreting the underlying reasons.

Scenario Possible Reason
Elderly Parent & Adult Child Career demands, family obligations, geographical distance
Close Friends Disagreement, loss of shared interests, changing priorities
Romantic Interest (Unrequited) Emotional distance, avoidance, subtle withdrawal

Conclusion

The sentence "He scarcely comes to see me now" is a poignant expression of a changing relationship. The reasons behind this decline are multifaceted and can range from practical constraints to emotional distance. A comprehensive understanding requires considering the context, the history of the relationship, and the potential life changes experienced by both individuals. The sentence serves as a reminder of the dynamic nature of human connections and the inevitability of change.

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

Present Perfect Tense
A verb tense used to express an action that started in the past and continues to have relevance in the present. It often implies a change over time or a past experience with present consequences.
Adverb of Frequency
A word that modifies a verb and indicates how often an action occurs (e.g., scarcely, rarely, often, always).

Key Statistics

According to a 2023 study by Pew Research Center, approximately 28% of U.S. adults report feeling lonely or isolated, which can contribute to decreased social interaction.

Source: Pew Research Center (2023)

A 2018 study by the Campaign to End Loneliness found that over 9 million people in the UK report feeling lonely often or always.

Source: Campaign to End Loneliness (2018)

Examples

The Impact of Migration

Many individuals migrate for work, leaving behind family and friends. This often leads to reduced visits, even with modern communication technologies, due to the practical challenges of travel and the demands of settling into a new environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

▶Does this sentence necessarily imply a negative relationship?

Not necessarily. While it often suggests a sense of loss or disappointment, the reduced visits could simply be due to unavoidable circumstances. The tone and context are crucial for determining the emotional undertones.

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