War and Peace — Study Notes & Solutions
Working with Words
A. Word Definitions
| Word | Best Meaning |
|---|---|
| Clamour | A loud and confused noise |
| Precariously | In a risky, unstable, or insecure manner |
| Scrutiny | Critical and detailed examination |
| Absconded | Departed secretly and hid |
| Anglicized | Adapted to or reflecting English characteristics |
| Platitudes | Trite, dull, or doubtful remarks |
B. Loanwords from Hindi in English
| Borrowed Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Veranda | A covered platform attached to the exterior of a house at ground level. |
| Khaki | A durable, dull yellowish-brown cloth widely used for military and formal uniforms. |
| Pashmina | Fine, high-grade fabric or shawl woven from goat wool. |
| Pajamas | Loose-fitting trousers and top worn primarily for sleeping. |
| Pukka | Authentic, excellent, proper, or highly reliable. |
| Pundit | An authoritative expert in a specific field who frequently shares commentary. |
| Avatar | An embodiment or manifestation of a deity (traditionally Lord Vishnu). |
| Bangle | A rigid ring-shaped ornament worn around the wrist or ankle. |
| Cheetah | A slender, fast-running spotted wild cat native to Africa and parts of Asia. |
| Guru | A spiritual master, guide, or esteemed teacher. |
| Jungle | Dense, tangled tropical forest or thick vegetation. |
| Karma | The principle of cause and effect where a person's actions dictate their future fate. |
| Nirvana | A state of ultimate liberation, spiritual awakening, and freedom from suffering. |
| Shampoo | A liquid formulation used for cleansing the hair and scalp. |
| Raita | A yogurt-based condiment mixed with seasoned vegetables or spices. |
C. Word Formation (Suffix Suffixation Rules)
- •
a. change
- •
- •-able changeable (retains 'e')
- •
- •
- •-ing changing (drops 'e')
- •
- •
- •-ed changed (drops 'e')
- •
- •
- •-less changeless (retains 'e')
- •
- •
b. time
- •
- •-ly timely (retains 'e')
- •
- •
- •-ing timing (drops 'e')
- •
- •
- •-ed timed (drops 'e')
- •
- •
- •-less timeless (retains 'e')
- •
- •
c. notice
- •
- •-able noticeable (retains 'e')
- •
- •
- •-ing noticing (drops 'e')
- •
- •
- •-ed noticed (drops 'e')
- •
- •
d. praise
- •
- •-worthy praiseworthy (retains 'e')
- •
- •
- •-ing praising (drops 'e')
- •
- •
- •-ed praised (drops 'e')
- •
- •
e. home
- •
- •-less homeless (retains 'e')
- •
- •
- •-ing homing (drops 'e')
- •
- •
- •-ly homely (retains 'e')
- •
Comprehension
Short Answer Solutions
a. Why did Iqbal want to sleep in the afternoon?
Iqbal needed sleep during the day because he had been awake all night resting on his bedding in a crammed third-class train compartment.
b. How did people react with each other in the train?
The commuters interacted boisterously, creating a noisy and chaotic environment inside the compartment.
c. Why did the book Iqbal was reading bring commotion in the compartment?
Because the book was in English, the passengers viewed him as an educated individual of high social standing, sparking curiosity and loud discussion among them.
d. Why did Iqbal have to give clarification with his personal details?
The commuters associated his English reading habits with elite intellectual status and eagerly questioned him to learn about his personal background.
e. Who was Meet Singh and what did he report to Iqbal?
Meet Singh was the priest of the local Gurudwara. He informed Iqbal about a recent murder in the village and noted that the local dacoit, Jugga Singh, was suspected.
f. How, according to Meet Singh, was Jugga Singh different from his forefathers?
Unlike his ancestors—who were also dacoits but protected their own community—Jugga targeted and harmed members of his own village.
g. How does the author show contradiction in Meet Singh's character?
Despite being a religious figure who condemned violence, Meet Singh was willing to defend Jugga and swear on the holy scripture for him despite serious murder accusations.
h. Who was Hukum Chand and how did he succeed in his career?
Hukum Chand was the Deputy Commissioner (Deputy Sahib) who advanced professionally by pleasing his superiors and securing steady administrative promotions.
Critical Thinking
A. Socio-Linguistic Status of English in Nepal
In Nepalese society, individuals fluent in English are often perceived as educated and socio-economically privileged. English proficiency opens doors in academic, corporate, technological, and international sectors.
However, command over English should not be treated as the sole benchmark of intelligence or character. While acquiring English is vital for global opportunities, preserving national and regional languages remains essential for safeguarding cultural heritage and social unity.
B. Maintaining Social Peace and Order
Sustaining a peaceful society relies on shared responsibility across three levels:
| Individual Level | Community Level | State Level |
|---|---|---|
| Respecting laws | Promoting unity | Fair law enforcement |
| Peaceful dialogue | Resolving disputes | Protecting human rights |
| Civic integrity | Youth support | Providing welfare & jobs |
Writing
A. Descriptive Paragraph: An Unworthy Friend
During my school years, I met an acquaintance who initially seemed trustworthy and warm. Believing his friendly behavior, I confided personal secrets to him. Over time, I discovered that he circulated my private thoughts among peers to create misunderstandings. Although this betrayal caused emotional hurt, I chose to forgive him, distance myself, and view the situation as a valuable lesson in exercising caution when choosing close companions.
B. Informal Letter: An Unforgettable Journey
Date: 2082-10-13
Location: Pokhara-7, Kaski
Dear Pratik,
I hope this letter finds you well! I am writing to share a memorable journey I recently experienced. Last week, I took an overland bus trip to my hometown in Sankhuwasabha, departing at 5:30 AM via Manakamana Yatayat and arriving around 6:30 PM.
Securing a window seat made the long ride delightful. As we traveled through winding mountain routes, I enjoyed breathtaking views of lush hills, rivers, and waterfalls. The passengers nearby were friendly; we spent time playing tabletop games like Ludo and chatting, which made the hours pass effortlessly.
It was a refreshing journey that brought me immense peace. Next time I plan a trip, I would love for you to join me!
Warm regards,
Aayusha Sharma
Grammar
A. Correct Verb Forms (Past Tenses)
It was Sunday afternoon. I was watching a cookery programme on TV when I realised how hungry I was. But of course, I was hungry; I hadn't eaten anything since lunch, and I had run a race in the morning. “Biscuits!” I thought. My mother had given me a jar of delicious home-made biscuits.
I went into the kitchen, opened the fridge and poured some milk into a big glass. Then I looked for the kitchen chair, but it wasn't there: somebody had taken it away. And there were no biscuits in the biscuit jar: somebody had eaten them all! I was sure I had put the jar there the previous day and I had eaten only one cookie. It was very strange.
A few minutes later, I was drinking my glass of milk when I heard a loud noise coming from the dining room. I went there quickly and opened the door. I couldn't believe my eyes. An enormous monkey was eating the biscuits excitedly on the kitchen chair.
B. Corrected Sentences
- •a. She played the flute and then she sang in the choir.
- •b. I borrowed Rima’s car. Did you know about it?
- •c. After the lesson finished, we ran out of school.
- •d. Have you been there? — Yes, last year.
- •e. Did you like my article published in the Himalayan Times yesterday?
- •f. I recognized him because I had seen him before.
- •g. I didn't go out because I hadn't finished my homework.
- •h. We were doing nothing like this at that time.
- •i. It was quite difficult; I had no idea what to do.
- •j. As far as I knew, she had always kept pets.
- •k. When I met Jim, he had already been a soldier for three years.
- •l. He went to the coffee shop because somebody had recommended it.