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Para-jumble Sentences
Question 34: 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. Such a belief in the harmony of nature requires a purpose presumably imposed by the goodness and wisdom of a deity.
2. These parts, all fit together into an integrated, well-ordered system that was created by design.
3. Historically, the notion of a balance of nature is part observational, part metaphysical, and not scientific in any way.
4. It is an example of an ancient belief system called teleology, the notion that what we call nature has a predetermined destiny associated with its component parts.
Solution with Explanation
Correct Answer: 3421
Detailed explanation by Wordpandit:
Sentences 1, 2 and 4 require a preceding statement to make sense, as they all begin with the words ‘such’, ‘these’, and ‘it’. Sentence-3 makes for the perfect opening line as it introduces the topic of ‘balance of nature’.
Sentence-4 then introduces the ancient belief system called teleology which combines nature’s components with a pre-determined destiny.
Sentence-2 confirms that all the parts fit together by design. Before placing this sentence, it is important to introduce all the parts.
Then, we can conclude with Sentence-1 which states that such belief in nature’s harmony requires the purpose granted by a deity.
Hence, 3421 is the correct sequence.
Word-1: Presumably
Context:
"Such a belief in the harmony of nature requires a purpose presumably imposed by the goodness and wisdom of a deity." - Contextual Usage
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Presumably" is used when we make a logical assumption based on what we know, even though we may not have absolute proof. It signals a high likelihood of something being true without directly stating it as a confirmed fact. In the sentence above, it shows that the speaker assumes the purpose is imposed by a divine being, although this is not definitively stated or proven.
Meaning: It is reasonable to assume or believe something to be true (Adverb)
Pronunciation: pri-ZOO-muh-blee
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic-Intermediate
Etymology: Derived from the verb "presume," which comes from Latin *praesumere*, meaning "to take for granted."
Prashant Sir's Notes:
This word often appears in analytical and philosophical contexts where assumptions are made based on reasoning rather than empirical evidence. It’s important to distinguish it from words like “probably” — “presumably” implies a stronger logical basis.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: supposedly, likely, probably, assumably
Antonyms: definitely, certainly, unquestionably
Usage Examples:
- Presumably, the train was delayed due to bad weather.
- She is, presumably, the new manager everyone's talking about.
- The keys were presumably left on the kitchen counter.
- Presumably, he didn't hear the alarm and overslept.
Cultural Reference:
"Presumably, God does not play dice." - Often attributed to Albert Einstein, critiquing quantum mechanics
Think About It:
Can a presumption be dangerous when it's accepted as fact without sufficient evidence? Where do we draw the line between reasoning and assumption?
Quick Activity:
Write down three statements using “presumably,” each based on a different type of assumption: logical, emotional, and observational.
Memory Tip:
Think: "PRE-SUMED" — Before it's confirmed, we assume it. "Presumably" means we assume it’s true before knowing for sure.
Real-World Application:
Used frequently in academic writing, legal arguments, and journalism when stating assumptions or drawing conclusions from available evidence.
Word-2: Integrated
Context:
"These parts, all fit together into an integrated, well-ordered system that was created by design." - Contextual Usage
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word "integrated" refers to the process of combining separate parts into a whole in such a way that they work harmoniously. When something is described as integrated, it means the components are unified and coordinated to form a complete, functioning system. In the context above, it emphasizes that the parts of the system are not random but are deliberately and thoughtfully brought together to serve a coherent purpose.
Meaning: Combined to work or function together as a whole (Adjective)
Pronunciation: IN-tuh-gray-tid
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *integratus*, past participle of *integrare* meaning "to make whole," from *integer* meaning "whole."
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Integrated” is commonly used in technical, educational, and organizational contexts. It reflects harmony, coordination, and a purposeful coming together of elements. Try to understand it as the opposite of "fragmented."
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: unified, combined, merged, cohesive
Antonyms: separated, fragmented, disjointed, isolated
Usage Examples:
- The school has an integrated curriculum that connects science, history, and literature.
- The software offers an integrated solution for data analysis and visualization.
- The company created an integrated marketing strategy across all platforms.
- Her approach to therapy is integrated, drawing from multiple disciplines.
Cultural Reference:
"An integrated society is one in which all people, regardless of race or background, live and work together in mutual respect." - Civil Rights Movement Ideology
Think About It:
Can systems truly be considered integrated if individual parts still function independently? What defines true integration?
Quick Activity:
Identify three systems around you (e.g., transportation, school, or digital apps) and explain how their parts are integrated.
Memory Tip:
Think of “integrated” as “in + grated” — all ingredients grated into one mix — forming a well-blended system!
Real-World Application:
Used in business, education, engineering, and healthcare to describe systems where different functions or components are combined for efficiency and effectiveness.
Word-3: Metaphysical
Context:
"Historically, the notion of a balance of nature is part observational, part metaphysical, and not scientific in any way." - Contextual Usage
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Metaphysical" refers to concepts or ideas that go beyond the physical and material world — dealing with abstract or philosophical issues such as existence, reality, and the nature of being. In the sentence above, it suggests that the idea of a balanced nature is rooted in abstract, philosophical thought rather than in measurable, scientific data. It signals a belief system or worldview rather than an evidence-based explanation.
Meaning: Relating to abstract thought or subjects beyond the physical world, such as existence, reality, and the nature of things (Adjective)
Pronunciation: meh-tuh-FIZ-i-kuhl
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate-Advanced
Etymology: From Greek *meta* meaning “beyond” and *physika* meaning “physical things.” Coined from the works that came *after* Aristotle’s *Physics*.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
"Metaphysical" is a powerful word in philosophy and literature. It refers to ideas that cannot be seen or measured but are fundamental to human thought — such as time, identity, or purpose. Understanding it can deepen your grasp of abstract arguments.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: philosophical, abstract, spiritual, transcendent
Antonyms: physical, material, empirical, tangible
Usage Examples:
- The poet's work explores metaphysical themes like eternity and the soul.
- She has a deep interest in metaphysical questions about the purpose of life.
- The novel blends realism with metaphysical speculation.
- Debates on free will often cross into metaphysical territory.
Cultural Reference:
"Metaphysical poets" like John Donne and George Herbert wrote about love, faith, and existence using intellectual and philosophical language — defining an entire literary movement of the 17th century.
Think About It:
Why do humans seek metaphysical explanations for things that cannot be seen or proven? Is metaphysical thinking still relevant in a scientific age?
Quick Activity:
List three everyday experiences or feelings (e.g., love, time, identity) and try to write one sentence about each from a metaphysical perspective.
Memory Tip:
Think "meta" = beyond + "physical" = the physical world. So “metaphysical” = beyond what’s physical — into the realm of the unseen or abstract.
Real-World Application:
Used in academic philosophy, spiritual discussions, and even creative arts to describe ideas that challenge our understanding of reality and go beyond physical evidence.
Word-4: Teleology
Context:
"It is an example of an ancient belief system called teleology, the notion that what we call nature has a predetermined destiny associated with its component parts." - Contextual Usage
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Teleology” refers to the philosophical idea that things in nature have a purpose or final goal. It suggests that processes and entities exist or evolve toward a specific end or design. In the context above, teleology is described as a belief that nature is not random or chaotic, but instead directed toward a certain outcome or destiny. This concept is central to many ancient and religious worldviews, though it's often debated in scientific discourse.
Meaning: The explanation of phenomena in terms of the purpose they serve rather than the cause by which they arise (Noun)
Pronunciation: tee-lee-OL-uh-jee
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Advanced
Etymology: From Greek *telos* meaning "end, purpose" + *logia* meaning "study of." Literally, "the study of ends or purposes."
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Teleology” is a high-level conceptual word, especially useful in philosophy, theology, and even biology debates. Understanding this word helps grasp how people interpret purpose or design in life and nature. It contrasts sharply with mechanistic or purely scientific views of the world.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: purposiveness, finalism, end-directedness
Antonyms: randomness, causality, mechanistic explanation
Usage Examples:
- Teleology suggests that everything in nature serves a specific purpose.
- Many religious doctrines are grounded in teleological thinking.
- Aristotle’s philosophy includes a strong element of teleology, particularly in biology.
- Some critics argue that evolutionary theory has no room for teleological interpretations.
Cultural Reference:
Aristotle’s works on biology and ethics often refer to teleology — the belief that everything has a purpose. This idea influenced medieval Christian theology and continues to appear in debates between science and religion.
Think About It:
If we assume everything has a purpose, does that change how we treat nature or people? What happens when science and teleology disagree?
Quick Activity:
Pick three natural objects (e.g., tree, heart, honeybee) and write what their teleological purpose might be, according to ancient belief systems.
Memory Tip:
Think: “Tele” (like telescope) = far/end + “logy” = study → Teleology = study of ultimate ends or purposes.
Real-World Application:
Used in debates about evolution, design in nature, artificial intelligence, ethics, and theology — especially when discussing whether actions or systems are driven by inherent goals.
Word-5: Predetermined
Context:
"It is an example of an ancient belief system called teleology, the notion that what we call nature has a predetermined destiny associated with its component parts." - Contextual Usage
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Predetermined” means something that has been decided or established in advance, before it actually happens. It implies that events or outcomes are fixed or planned beforehand, removing the element of chance or change. In the context above, it refers to the belief that nature and its components are moving toward a specific, fixed destiny — one that was set ahead of time and cannot be altered.
Meaning: Decided or established in advance; not subject to change (Adjective)
Pronunciation: pree-dih-TUR-mind
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *prae-* meaning “before” and *determinare* meaning “to determine or decide.”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
This word often appears in philosophical, religious, and even psychological discussions. It links closely with debates on fate vs. free will. It's useful when discussing structured plans, inevitable outcomes, or systems that seem guided by invisible forces.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: preordained, fated, destined, fixed
Antonyms: spontaneous, random, uncertain, undecided
Usage Examples:
- Her career path seemed predetermined by her family’s legacy.
- Some believe that our lives follow a predetermined plan laid out by the universe.
- The outcome of the match felt almost predetermined due to the skill gap.
- He rejected the idea of a predetermined future and embraced personal freedom.
Cultural Reference:
In Calvinist theology, the doctrine of “predestination” suggests that God has predetermined who will be saved — a concept deeply tied to the word “predetermined.”
Think About It:
If our paths are predetermined, do we truly have free will? How would life change if you believed everything was already planned?
Quick Activity:
Write two statements: one that reflects a belief in a predetermined outcome, and one that reflects belief in chance or choice. Compare their tone and meaning.
Memory Tip:
Break it down: “pre” = before + “determined” = decided. So, “predetermined” means something that’s decided beforehand.
Real-World Application:
Often used in discussions of fate, automation, planned processes, or narratives (e.g., a “predetermined script” in storytelling or AI systems).
