Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow. One would…
2023
Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
One would think that the larger the company is in which we are engaged, the greater variety of thoughts and subjects would be started in discourse; but instead of this, we find that conversation is never so much straitened and confined as in numerous assemblies. When a multitude meet together on any subject of discourse, their debates are taken up chiefly with forms and general positions; nay, if we come into a more contracted assembly of men and women, the talk generally runs upon the weather, fashions, news, and the like public topics. In proportion as conversation gets into clubs and knots of friends, it descends into particulars, and grows more free and communicative: but the most open, instructive, and unreserved discourse, is that which passes between two persons who are familiar and intimate friends. On these occasions, a man gives a loose to every passion and every thought that is uppermost, discovers his most retired opinions of persons and things, tries the beauty and strength of his sentiments, and exposes his whole soul to the examination of his friend.
What does the author mean when he says, ‘exposes his whole soul to the examination of his friend’?
Answer: B. Honest, truthful, sincere and committed talk — ConceptIn reading comprehension, a figurative expression must be interpreted from its surrounding context rather than from its literal words alone. The best…
- A.
Pretentious talk
- B.
Honest, truthful, sincere and committed talk
- C.
Roguery
- D.
More than one of the above
- E.
None of the above
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Concept
In reading comprehension, a figurative expression must be interpreted from its surrounding context rather than from its literal words alone. The best meaning is the one that preserves the author’s idea and tone across the nearby sentences.
Application
The passage says that conversation between intimate friends is open, instructive, and unreserved. It adds that a person releases every thought and passion, reveals private opinions, and allows a friend to examine them. Thus, “exposes his whole soul” means speaking with complete candour and sincerity.
Contrast
“Pretentious talk” aims to impress or appear important, whereas the passage stresses unreserved disclosure.
“Roguery” means dishonest or mischievous conduct, which does not express the passage’s idea of candid friendship.
“More than one of the above” requires at least two meanings to fit; the passage conveys one coherent idea of trust-based candid disclosure.
“None of the above” excludes every offered meaning; trust-based candid disclosure is represented among the offered values.
Result
Therefore, the expression means honest, truthful, sincere, and committed talk.