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Para-jumble Sentences
Question 32: The four sentences (labelled 1, 2, 3, 4) given below, when properly sequenced would yield a coherent paragraph. Decide on the proper sequence of the order of the sentences and key in the sequence of the four numbers as your answer.
1. Metaphors may map to similar meanings across languages, but their subtle differences can have a profound effect on our understanding of the world.
2. Latin scholars point out carpe diem is a horticultural metaphor that, particularly seen in the context of its source, is more accurately translated as âplucking the day,â evoking the plucking and gathering of ripening fruits or flowers, enjoying a moment that is rooted in the sensory experience of nature, unrelated to the force implied in seizing.
3. The phrase carpe diem, which is often translated as âseize the day and its accompanying philosophyâ, has gone on to inspire countless people in how they live their lives and motivates us to see the world a little differently from the norm.
4. Itâs an example of one of the more telling ways that we mistranslate metaphors from one language to another, revealing in the process our hidden assumptions about what we really value.
Solution with Explanation
Answer: 3241
Detailed explanation by Wordpandit:
When it is difficult to find the opening line, the correct way to go about such questions is to try to find the logical flow of the things stated, and then try to put statements in coherent pairs or sets.
Here, Sentence-1 is a neutral statement, and can be either the opening sentence or the concluding sentence. Let us keep this aside for later.
Sentence-2 states what Latin scholars interpreted the phrase carpe diem âmore accuratelyâ. This implies that prior to this, the phrase must be already explained, that too in a different manner/meaning. And we find that alternate explanation in Sentence-3. So, Sentences 3 and 2 can be linked to form a âsetâ.
Sentence-4 starts with âitâs an example of one of the more telling ways that we mistranslate metaphors..â This should logically follow the example described in 3 and 2. Hence, the sentences 3-2-4 form a set.
Next we need to determine the placement of the rather neutral Sentence-1. If placed as the opening line, Sentence-1 seems to lose impact, as the long discussion on the example carpe diem follows for the next three sentences. However, when placed at the end of the passage, Sentence-1 acts like a decent conclusion that sums up all the points asserted in the first three sentences. It makes a better closing line.
Hence, the correct sequence should be 3241.
Word-1: Metaphors
Context:
"Metaphors may map to similar meanings across languages, but their subtle differences can have a profound effect on our understanding of the world." - Linguistic Studies
Explanatory Paragraph:
Metaphors are powerful linguistic tools that help us understand abstract concepts by comparing them to more familiar experiences or images. Rather than stating something directly, a metaphor suggests a similarity, allowing deeper or more imaginative interpretation. For instance, saying "time is a thief" conveys how quickly time can take things from us, without literally meaning time steals. Across cultures, metaphors reflect shared as well as unique perspectives, shaping how people conceptualize the world around them.
Meaning: A figure of speech that describes an object or action in a way that isnât literally true, but helps explain an idea or make a comparison (noun)
Pronunciation: MEH-tuh-fawrz
Difficulty Level: ââ Beginner
Etymology: From Greek "metaphora", meaning "a transfer", derived from "meta" (beyond) + "pherein" (to carry)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Metaphors are not just poetic devicesâthey shape how we think and speak every day. Even phrases like "grasping an idea" use metaphor to bridge thought and physical experience.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: analogy, symbol, image, comparison, allegory
Antonyms: literal statement, fact, reality, truth
Usage Examples:
- "He used the metaphor of a journey to explain his career path."
- "The poem is rich with metaphors that evoke a sense of loss."
- "âThe worldâs a stageâ is a classic metaphor from Shakespeare."
- "In therapy, metaphors can help patients reframe their struggles."
Cultural Reference:
"All the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players." - William Shakespeare, *As You Like It*
Think About It:
How do metaphors influence the way we perceive abstract ideas such as love, time, or freedom in different cultures?
Quick Activity:
Write down three metaphors you've heard recently. Try to explain what they really mean and why they were effective.
Memory Tip:
Remember: a metaphor âtransfersâ meaning, like a bus carrying ideas from one image to another.
Real-World Application:
Metaphors are widely used in advertising, politics, and everyday speech to persuade and connect with audiences on an emotional level. Understanding them helps improve communication and interpretation.
Word-2: Philosophy
Context:
"The phrase carpe diem, which is often translated as 'seize the day and its accompanying philosophy', has gone on to inspire countless people in how they live their lives and motivates us to see the world a little differently from the norm." - Modern Thought Review
Explanatory Paragraph:
Philosophy is the systematic study of fundamental questions concerning existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language. It explores how we understand the world and our place in it, often delving into abstract or conceptual territory. Whether through ancient wisdom like Stoicism or motivational phrases like "carpe diem," philosophy influences the ways people interpret life, make decisions, and shape their values. It's not just an academic discipline, but a guide to living thoughtfully and meaningfully.
Meaning: The study of the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality, and existence, especially when considered as an academic discipline (noun)
Pronunciation: fi-LAW-suh-fee
Difficulty Level: âââ Intermediate
Etymology: From Greek "philosophia" meaning "love of wisdom", combining "philo" (loving) + "sophia" (wisdom)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Philosophy isn't just about asking difficult questionsâit's a way of seeing the world with clarity and curiosity. Even simple life principles or mottos often stem from deep philosophical roots.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: worldview, ideology, belief system, logic, reasoning
Antonyms: superficiality, ignorance, thoughtlessness
Usage Examples:
- "Her personal philosophy revolves around kindness and honesty."
- "Eastern philosophy often emphasizes harmony with nature."
- "The professor made ancient philosophy feel surprisingly relevant."
- "Adopting a new philosophy of minimalism changed how he approached life."
Cultural Reference:
"The unexamined life is not worth living." â Socrates, as quoted in Platoâs *Apology*
Think About It:
What personal philosophy guides your choices in life, and how has it evolved over time?
Quick Activity:
Write a one-line personal philosophy you live by. Then try to trace where that idea might have come fromâculture, religion, or life experience.
Memory Tip:
Think of "philosophy" as the "love (philo) of wisdom (sophy)"âa love affair with deep thinking!
Real-World Application:
Philosophy shapes how we set goals, resolve conflicts, and define right and wrong. It influences legal systems, ethical debates, leadership styles, and even company mission statements.
Word-3: Translated
Context:
"Latin scholars point out carpe diem is a horticultural metaphor that, particularly seen in the context of its source, is more accurately translated as 'plucking the day,'" - Classical Studies Commentary
Explanatory Paragraph:
To translate something means to express its meaning in another language or form. It's not just about swapping words from one tongue to anotherâtrue translation involves conveying context, tone, and cultural nuance. In this example, the Latin phrase "carpe diem" is commonly rendered as âseize the day,â but scholars suggest âplucking the dayâ may be a more faithful translation, especially considering the original metaphor. The act of translation plays a crucial role in how ideas, literature, and philosophies travel across time and borders.
Meaning: To render text or speech from one language into another; also, to express in a different form or medium (verb - past tense)
Pronunciation: TRANS-lay-tid
Difficulty Level: ââ Beginner
Etymology: From Latin "translatus", past participle of "transferre" meaning "to carry across"
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Translation is about more than wordsâit's about meaning. When studying vocabulary, always check how a word has been translated across contexts to grasp its full flavor.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: interpreted, rendered, converted, rephrased
Antonyms: obscured, confused, misrepresented, garbled
Usage Examples:
- "The ancient poem was translated into over fifty languages."
- "Her emotions were beautifully translated into music."
- "That idiom doesnât translate well into English."
- "The novel was translated faithfully, preserving the authorâs style."
Cultural Reference:
"Lost in translation" â A common phrase and also the title of a popular 2003 film, symbolizing the subtle meanings that donât always carry over between languages.
Think About It:
Can any translation ever be fully accurate, or is every translation also an interpretation?
Quick Activity:
Pick a short quote in another language and try to translate it. Then compare your version to a published oneâwhat did you do differently?
Memory Tip:
Translate = "trans" (across) + "late" (carry) â carry meaning across languages or forms.
Real-World Application:
From international diplomacy to film dubbing, translation enables global communication. Itâs vital in literature, business, tech, and cultural preservation.
Word-4: Evoking
Context:
"Latin scholars point out carpe diem is a horticultural metaphor that, particularly seen in the context of its source, is more accurately translated as 'plucking the day,' evoking the plucking and gathering of ripening fruits or flowers, enjoying a moment that is rooted in the sensory experience of nature." - Classical Studies Commentary
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Evoking" means bringing a feeling, image, memory, or idea to mind, often vividly or emotionally. It is frequently used in literature and description to capture the sensory or emotional power of a word, scene, or symbol. In the given context, "evoking" refers to the image of gathering fruit or flowers, connecting the metaphor of âplucking the dayâ with the sensory richness of nature. The word highlights how language can stir imagination and memory, giving deeper texture to expression.
Meaning: Bringing or recalling a feeling, image, or memory to mind (verb â present participle)
Pronunciation: ee-VOH-king
Difficulty Level: âââ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin "evocare" meaning "to call out", from "e-" (out) + "vocare" (to call)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Writers often use "evoking" to create mood and atmosphere. A single word or image can evoke entire landscapes or memories in a reader's mindâthis is the magic of vivid language.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: summon, recall, stir, suggest, awaken
Antonyms: suppress, ignore, deaden, silence
Usage Examples:
- "The painting is successful in evoking the calm of a summer afternoon."
- "Her words evoked memories of childhood games in the rain."
- "The scent of jasmine evoked a deep emotional response."
- "He uses music as a way of evoking forgotten feelings."
Cultural Reference:
"A poem begins in delight and ends in wisdom." â Robert Frost, evoking the power of poetry to move the heart and mind.
Think About It:
What everyday objects or smells evoke strong emotions or memories for you, and why do you think they have that power?
Quick Activity:
Think of a favorite place and list three sensory details (smell, sound, sight) that evoke memories of that place.
Memory Tip:
âEvokingâ sounds like âawakeningââremember it as awakening feelings, images, or thoughts.
Real-World Application:
In storytelling, advertising, and therapy, evoking emotion is a key strategyâwhether to connect with an audience, trigger recall, or influence decision-making.
Word-5: Assumptions
Context:
"Itâs an example of one of the more telling ways that we mistranslate metaphors from one language to another, revealing in the process our hidden assumptions about what we really value." - Cross-Cultural Linguistics Journal
Explanatory Paragraph:
Assumptions are beliefs or ideas that we accept as true without questioning or verifying them. Often, these are formed unconsciously based on personal experience, culture, or upbringing. In communication and translation, assumptions can shape how we interpret metaphors, words, or actions. The quote emphasizes how these hidden assumptions can surface when we try to express meaning across languages, revealing what we value or take for grantedâsometimes without realizing it.
Meaning: Things that are accepted as true or certain to happen, without proof (noun â plural)
Pronunciation: uh-SUMP-shuns
Difficulty Level: ââ Beginner
Etymology: From Latin "assumere", meaning "to take up, adopt, or suppose", from "ad-" (to) + "sumere" (take)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Be aware of your assumptionsâthey influence how you interpret everything from texts to people. In critical thinking and vocabulary, questioning assumptions leads to better understanding.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: beliefs, suppositions, expectations, presumptions, theories
Antonyms: facts, evidence, proof, certainties
Usage Examples:
- "The debate was based on completely different assumptions."
- "We need to challenge our assumptions about success."
- "His argument fell apart because of flawed assumptions."
- "Cultural assumptions often go unnoticed but shape our actions deeply."
Cultural Reference:
"When you assume, you make an ass out of u and me." â A popular humorous phrase emphasizing the risks of unexamined assumptions.
Think About It:
What is one assumption youâve recently discovered about yourself or the world that changed your perspective?
Quick Activity:
Write down three assumptions youâve made recentlyâabout people, events, or outcomes. Were they true?
Memory Tip:
Think of âassumptionsâ as things we âassumeâ before checkingâthey go ahead of the facts.
Real-World Application:
Understanding assumptions is crucial in problem-solving, negotiations, cultural studies, and decision-making, especially in fields like psychology, business, and education.
