Question

Notice these expressions in the text. Infer their meaning from the context.

• blow-by-blow account

• morale booster

• relegated to

• political acumen

• de facto

• astute

• doctored accounts

• gave vent to

Answer 1

• blow-by-blow account: detailed account. In the text “The Adventure” this expression occurs in the context of Gangadharpant trying to understand the outcome of the Battle of Panipat by reading a book on the topic.

• morale booster: anything that serves to increase morale or confidence. The expression occurs in the text 'Adventure' where it is told that the Marathas emerged victorious in the Battle of Panipat which increased their morale or confidence in establishing their supremacy all over the country.

• Relegated to: assigned to a lower rank or position. In the text, it is said how Dadasaheb, a Maratha Chieftain was assigned to a lower rank after the Battle of Panipat.

• political acumen: political shrewdness with keen insight. In the text 'The Adventure' the expression is used to convey how Madhavrao and Vishwasrao because of their shrewdness could expand their influence all over India.

• de facto: existing in fact whether with lawful authority or not. In the text 'Adventure' the Peshwas is regarded as de facto rulers as they kept the Mughal regime alive in Delhi.

• astute: marked by practical hardheaded intelligence. In the text “The Adventure” this word is used to convey that the Peshwas were very intelligent to recognise the importance of technological age dawning in Europe.

• doctored accounts: manipulation of accounts. This expression conveys that the Bakhars were not providing historical facts but manipulated accounts of history.

• give vent to: to express one's feelings and ideas. Professor Gaitonde expressed his ideas in the public lecture on the Battle of Panipat.