English

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

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Question

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

  • the thought was almost revolting

  • an expanse of pure white serenity

  • a turning-point

  • accepted her seclusion with resignation

  • a veritable bedlam of chirrupings

  • frivolous rebukes

  • the sagging skins of the dilapidated drum

Answer in Brief
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Solution

  • the thought was almost revolting – The thought that the author’s grandmother was once young and pretty raises a doubt in the mind of the author. He finds it too hard to believe.

  • an expanse of pure white serenity – It refers to the calm, peaceful and serene character and conduct of the author’s grandmother. She is compared to the peaceful winter landscape in the mountains.

  • a turning-point – It refers to the point where the author’s relationship with his grandmother changes drastically after they move to the city-house.

  • accepted her seclusion with resignation – This shows the author’s grandmother’s passive submission to her secluded life after she gradually loses touch with her grandson.

  • a veritable bedlam of chirruping – It refers to the noise, confusion, and chaos caused by the chirruping of the sparrows that scattered and perched around the author’s grandmother.

  • frivolous rebukes – It refers to the casual and light-hearted rebukes of the grandmother to the sparrows.
     
  • the sagging skins of the dilapidated drum – It points to the shabby and deteriorated condition of the drum.
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Chapter 1.1: The Portrait of a Lady - Exercise [Page 3]

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NCERT English (Core) - Hornbill
Chapter 1.1 The Portrait of a Lady
Exercise | Q 1 | Page 3

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