CMAT Language Comprehension Sample Questions 2025: Boost Your Exam Performance

Syllabus for CMAT Language Comprehension

The CMAT exam language comprehension section questions comprise of the following topics which are also common to various other MBA exams.

• English Grammar,
• Paragraph Completion,
• Sentence Improvement,
• English Usage Errors,
• Synonyms and Antonyms,
• Reading Comprehension,
• One-word Substitution,
• Jumbled Para,
• Idioms and Phrases,
• Sentence Correction.

CMAT Language Comprehension Sample Questions

• To crack the CMAT Language Comprehension section, thorough coverage of the syllabus is needed, and full control over vocabulary and grammar must be gained.
• Passages must be comprehended by candidates, and related CMAT English questions must be answered to demonstrate their understanding and analytical skills.
• Preparation involves reading diverse texts, expanding vocabulary, and practicing comprehension exercises by going through the CMAT sample paper 2025.

Excelling in CMAT Language Comprehension questions is deemed essential for success in the exam. So don’t wait and get started with your preparation for language comprehension for CMAT exam. Given below are CMAT Language Comprehension Sample Questions for practice.

CMAT Language Comprehension Sample Questions with Detailed Solutions

1. Identify the category for the following sentence:

"Heavens! What a beautiful sunset."

1. Simple

2. Interrogative

3. Affirmative

4. Exclamatory

Answer: Exclamatory

Explanation: The correct answer is D - Exclamatory. In an exclamatory sentence, the speaker expresses strong emotion or surprise. In this case, using "Heavens!" and the exclamation mark indicates that the sentence is exclamatory.

2. The new computer software ________ designed to improve efficiency in the workplace.

1. is

2. are

3. has

4. Have

Answer: is

Explanation: The correct answer is A - is. In this sentence, the subject is singular (new computer software), so the appropriate auxiliary verb is "is" to maintain the subject-verb agreement.

3. Select the correct direct form of the given sentence.

Meena said that her parents were getting divorced.

1. Meena said, "My parents get divorced."

2. Meena said, "My parents are getting divorced."

3. Meena said, "My parents will be getting divorced."

4. Meena said, "My parents were getting divorced."

Answer: Meena said, "My parents are getting divorced."

Explanation: The second option is the correct answer.

The reporting verb "said" remains unchanged because it has no object. The pronoun "her" is changed to "my" to match the subject of the reporting verb in direct speech. The past continuous tense "were getting divorced" is changed to the present continuous tense "are getting divorced" when converting from indirect to direct speech.

Therefore, the correct answer is: Meena said, "My parents are getting divorced."

4. Choose the appropriate question to follow for the statement given below:

Statement given below:

No, it doesn't.

1. Does it snow in winter?

2. Is it snowing in winter?

3. Did it snow in winter?

4. What happens in winter?

Answer: A. Does it snow in winter?

Explanation: The correct answer is A - Does it snow in winter? The original statement and the new question both refer to a specific weather condition in winter, and the question structure maintains consistency with the original response.

5. Choose the most appropriate option to complete the sentence:

1. Veggie

2. Vegan

3. Herbivore

4. Vegetarian

Answer: Veggie

Explanation:The correct answer is A - Veggie. A "veggie" is a colloquial term for a person who follows a vegetarian diet, which typically includes fruits, vegetables, grains, and may include dairy and eggs, but excludes meat.

6. Parts of the following sentence have been given as options. Select the option that contains a grammatical error.

He describes the place vivid / that inspired in us / a wish to visit / the same.

1. He describes the place vivid

2. the same.

3. a wish to visit

4. that inspired in us

Answer: He describes the place vivid

Explanation: The right option is the first option.

The error occurs in the phrase "He describes the place vivid." The word "vivid" is an adjective, but it's not correctly structured in the sentence. In this corrected version, the word "vividly" is used to modify the verb "describes" to indicate the manner in which he describes the place.

Therefore, the corrected sentence would be, "He describes the place vividly, that inspired in us a wish to visit the same."

7. Sentences of a paragraph are given below in jumbled order. Arrange the sentences in the correct order to form a meaningful and coherent paragraph.

A. When this extra water vapour condenses into precipitation, it results in heavier rain — or, if it's cold enough, heavier snow.

B. The atmosphere can store an additional 4% of water vapour for every additional 1°F of warming.

C. More water evaporates from soils, plants, lakes and seas as the atmosphere warms.

D. One of the most obvious indications of climate change is heavier rainfall.

1. CBDA

2. DCBA

3. ACDB

4. BCAD

Answer: DCBA

Explanation: The second option is the correct option.

Explanation: The paragraph begins with a direct statement about heavier rainfall being a clear indication of climate change (sentence D). Sentence C follows by introducing the process of increased evaporation due to a warmer atmosphere. Sentence B then provides a specific impact on the atmosphere's ability to store water vapour. Lastly, sentence A logically concludes by explaining the consequences of the extra water vapour, resulting in heavier rainfall or snowfall.

The correct sequence is DCBA.

8. Pick the most appropriate option from below:

The statement "The plot thickens" is commonly used to suggest:

1. The story is becoming more complicated.

2. The characters are losing interest.

3. The setting is becoming dull.

4. The narrative is reaching a conclusion.

Answer: The story is becoming more complicated.

Explanation: The correct answer is A - The story is becoming more complicated. The phrase "The plot thickens" is often used to convey that the storyline is getting more intricate, with new developments or complexities emerging.

9. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no need to substitute it, select ‘No substitution’.

Kranthi loves to swim at the local swimming pool in order that relieve his work stress.

1. in order which

2. No substitution

3. in order as to relieve

4. in order to relieve

Answer: in order to relieve

Explanation: The right option is the fourth option. "In order that" is not the appropriate phrase here. "In order to" is used to express purpose or intention, showing why Kranthi loves to swim—in this case, to alleviate or reduce his work stress. Therefore, the phrase "to relieve" is a suitable substitution.

Therefore, the corrected sentence would be "Kranthi loves to swim at the local swimming pool in order to relieve his work stress."

10. She couldn't believe it when she __________ the news of her promotion.

1. came over

2. came across

3. came into

4. came up with

Answer: came across

Explanation: The correct answer is B - came across. The sentence would read: "She couldn't believe it when she came across the news of her promotion." The phrasal verb "came across" is used when someone unexpectedly finds or encounters something.

11. Select the most appropriate collocating word to fill in the blank.

Ram was praised for his__________ leadership.

1. Imaginary

2. Visionary

3. Magical

4. Broad

Answer:Visionary

Explanation: The correct answer is the second option.

It means having the ability to think about or plan the future with imagination or wisdom. This word fits well in the context of praising leadership that is forward-thinking, innovative, and strategic.

The meanings of other options are as follows:

Imaginary: Existing only in the imagination; not real.

Magical: Related to magic or producing extraordinary results.

Broad: Wide in scope or extent; not specific.

Therefore, the complete sentence is "Ram was praised for his visionary leadership."

12. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the underlined segment in the given sentence.

He was looking into his book for the last two hours but couldn't find it.

1. looking down on his book

2. looking above his book

3. looking for his book

4. looking after his book

Answer: looking for his book

Explanation: The correct answer is the third option.

In this context, "looking for" is the correct phrase to convey the idea of searching for his book. The preposition "for" is used with the verb "looking" to indicate the purpose or direction of the action whereas "looking into" means to investigate.

Therefore, the sentence should be "He was looking for his book for the last two hours but couldn't find it."

13. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.

All eyes

1. Watching with anger

2. Watching eagerly

3. Watching with no interest

4. Not watching at all

Answer: Watching eagerly

Explanation: The correct answer is the second option.

The idiom "all eyes" typically means that everyone is watching or paying close attention to something with great interest or eagerness. It implies a collective focus or scrutiny on a particular event, person, or situation.

14. Amelia entered the art gallery with high expectations. The exhibition showcased a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and installations. Although the gallery space was relatively small, the vibrant colours and intriguing shapes captivated her attention. The curator, Ms. Rodriguez, guided her through the different sections, providing insightful commentary on each artwork. Intrigued by a particular painting, Amelia inquired about the artist's inspiration. Ms. Rodriguez explained that the painter often drew inspiration from the complexities of human emotions.

In this context, what does the phrase "intriguing shapes" imply?

1. Ordinary and dull shapes

2. Familiar and recognizable shapes

3. Puzzling and interesting shapes

4. Geometric and symmetrical shapes

Answer: Puzzling and interesting shapes

Explanation: The correct answer is C. Puzzling and interesting shapes. The phrase "intriguing shapes" suggests that the shapes in the artworks are not ordinary or familiar but rather puzzling and interesting, prompting curiosity and fascination.

15. Choose the correct meaning of the expression "Coup de grâce":

1. A swift and decisive action

2. A sudden and surprising turn of events

3. The final blow or shot to end someone's suffering

4. A diplomatic resolution to a conflict

Answer: The final blow or shot to end someone's suffering

Explanation: The correct answer is C. The expression "Coup de grâce" refers to the final blow or shot, especially one delivered to end someone's suffering, or a decisive finishing action.

16. The expression "a piece of cake" means

1. A complex task

2. An easy task

3. A delicious dessert

4. A creative masterpiece

Answer: (B) An easy task

Explanation: The expression "a piece of cake" is an idiomatic phrase in English that is used to describe something that is very easy to do or accomplish. When someone says that a task is "a piece of cake," they mean that it is straightforward, simple, and not challenging at all.

17. Choose the antonym of the word "ephemeral" from the options given below:

1. Transient

2. Enduring

3. Fleeting

4. Evanescent

Answer: Enduring

Explanation: The correct answer is B Enduring. "Ephemeral" means lasting for a very short time, while "Enduring" means lasting over a long period. Therefore, "Enduring" is the antonym of "ephemeral.

18. Complete the sentence in List I by choosing the appropriate phrase from List II

1. 
   i - c, ii - a, iii - b, iv - d

2. i - b, ii - a, iii - c, iv - d

3. i - a, ii - d, iii - b, iv - c

4. i - c, ii - d, iii - a, iv - b

Answer: i - b, ii - a, iii - c, iv - d

Explanation: i. She came up with her keys at home and couldn't find them.

The phrasal verb "came up with" means to produce or discover something unexpectedly, fitting the context of discovering the keys.

ii. The students were asked to look after the information from various sources.

"Look after" in this context means to take care of or manage, aligning with the idea of handling information.

iii. The chef decided to bring up a new recipe for the restaurant's menu.

"Bring up" can mean to introduce or mention, and here, it fits the idea of introducing a new recipe to the restaurant's menu.

iv. We need to clear out the old furniture to make room for the new one.

"Clear out" means to remove or get rid of, which fits the context of removing old furniture to make space for the new one.

19. Select the synonyms of the word "dwindle" from the options provided below:

A. Expand

B. Diminish

C. Flourish

D. Thrive

Answer: Diminish

Explanation: The correct answer is B. Diminish. "Dwindle" means to gradually become smaller or less, and "Diminish" is a synonym that aligns with the same meaning. The other options do not represent synonyms of "dwindle."

20. "The art of storytelling is a profound expression of human creativity. It weaves together the threads of imagination, emotion, and experience, capturing the essence of what it means to be human. Storytelling transcends cultural boundaries, resonating with people from all walks of life. It serves as a vessel for shared wisdom, moral lessons, and the collective memory of a society. A contempt for storytelling reflects a disconnection from the rich tapestry of human experience, as it is through stories that we connect, learn, and empathize with the diverse narratives that shape our world."

Which of the following expressions accurately captures the essence of the given passage?

A. Storytelling is a universal medium that bridges cultural gaps and connects individuals through shared experiences.

B. The art of storytelling is primarily concerned with entertaining audiences rather than conveying meaningful lessons.

C. Disdain for storytelling suggests a lack of appreciation for the diversity and richness of human experiences.

D. Storytelling is limited in its scope, catering only to specific cultural contexts and not resonating universally.

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

1. A - B - C

2. A - C - D

3. B - C - D

4. A - B - D

Answer: A.

Explanation: The correct answer is A. A - B - C.

A. Storytelling is a universal medium that bridges cultural gaps and connects individuals through shared experiences: This aligns with the passage's emphasis on storytelling transcending cultural boundaries and resonating with people from all walks of life.

C. Disdain for storytelling suggests a lack of appreciation for the diversity and richness of human experiences: This corresponds to the passage's statement about contempt for storytelling reflecting a disconnection from the rich tapestry of human experience.

B. The art of storytelling is primarily concerned with entertaining audiences rather than conveying meaningful lessons: This is not supported by the passage, as it highlights the profound expression of human creativity and the conveying of wisdom and moral lessons through storytelling.

CMAT 2024 Exam Questions with Solutions

Given questions given below are taken from the previous year’s CMAT question paper 2024. The candidates can expect similar questions for CMAT 2025 as well.

Question 1: Pick the word opposite in meaning to the word "OBLIGATORY".

1. Compulsory

2. Exclusionary

3. Voluntary

4. Exemplary

Correct Option: 3. Voluntary

Explanation: The word "obligatory" means something that is required or mandatory. The opposite of this would be "voluntary," which implies something done out of free will without being mandatory. Other options, such as "compulsory," are synonymous with "obligatory" and not opposites.

Question 2: Identify the usages of the word "PRINCIPAL" in the following sentence:
"In the meeting the principal stated the principal reasons for the suggested changes in the statute."

1. As a noun and as an adverb

2. As a noun and as a verb

3. As a noun and as an adjective

4. As a noun and as a noun

Correct Option: 3. As a noun and as an adjective

Explanation: In the given sentence:

• The first "principal" refers to a person in a position of authority, used as a noun.

• The second "principal" describes the reasons, indicating they are the most important, used as an adjective.
  Other options are incorrect as the word "principal" is not used as an adverb, verb, or noun in both instances.

Question 3: Pick the correct answer from the options given below to replace the underlined words/phrase in the following sentence to make it grammatically correct:
“He keeps getting for me and I really don’t know what wrong have I done.”

1. gets at me

2. get off at me

3. getting at me

4. getting by me

Correct Option: 3. getting at me

Explanation: The phrase "getting for me" is incorrect in the given context. The correct phrase is "getting at me," which means someone is criticising or targeting a person, fitting the tone of frustration in the sentence. Other options do not align with the context or meaning.

Question 4: Pick the odd one out from the following options:

1. hold back

2. hold high

3. hold on

4. hold up

Correct Option: 2. hold high

Explanation: The phrases "hold back," "hold on," and "hold up" are commonly used idiomatic expressions with established meanings:

• "Hold back" means to restrain.

• "Hold on" means to wait or endure.

• "Hold up" means to delay or rob.

However, "hold high" is not a standard idiomatic phrase in English, making it the odd one out.

Question 5: Pick the correct option to complete the following sentence:
“He often _________ cold in winter.”

1. catch

2. is catching

3. catches

4. have caught

Correct Option: 3. catches

Explanation: The sentence describes a habitual action, indicated by the word "often." For habitual actions, the simple present tense is used. "Catches" is the correct form of the verb in the simple present tense for the singular subject "he." Other options either do not fit grammatically or do not indicate a habitual action.

Question 6: Which of the following are synonyms of the word "CAJOLE"?

(A) Coax
(B) Entice
(C) Bully
(D) Disenchant

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

1. (A) and (B) only

2. (A) and (C) only

3. (B) and (C) only

4. (C) and (D) only

Correct Option: 1. (A) and (B) only

Explanation: "Cajole" means to persuade someone to do something through flattery or gentle urging. Both "coax" and "entice" are synonyms, as they carry similar meanings. "Bully" and "disenchant" are antonyms and do not align with the meaning of "cajole."

Read the following and answer the next two questions

Passage:

Education, taken in its most extensive sense, is properly that which makes the man. One method of education, therefore, would only produce one kind of man; but the greater excellence of human nature consists in the variety of which it is capable. Instead then, of endeavoring, by uniform and fixed systems of education, to keep mankind always the same, let us give free scope to everything which may bid fair for introducing more variety among us. The varied character of the Athenians was certainly preferable to the uniform character of the Spartans, or to any uniform national character whatever. Uniformity is the characteristic of the brute creation. Among them every species of bird builds its nest with the same materials and in the same form; the genius and disposition of one individual is that of all and it is only the education which men give them that raises any of them much above others. But it is the glory of human nature that the operations of reason, though variable and by no means infallible, are capable of infinite improvement. We come into the world worse provided than any of the brutes; but when their faculties are at full stand and their enjoyments incapable of variety or increase, our intellectual powers are growing apace; we are perpetually deriving happiness from new sources, and even before we leave this world, are capable of tasting the felicity of angels.

Question 7: Which of the following is true about the given passage?

1. It describes the state of education in our society.

2. It narrates the story of educational development in our society.

3. It reflects on the role and impact of education in life.

4. All of the above

Correct Option: 4. All of the above

Explanation: The passage discusses the state of education, how it contributes to human growth, and its role in developing intellectual and moral capabilities. It also reflects on the broader impact of education on human life. Therefore, all the statements provided are true about the passage.

Question 8: Which of the following statements are true about the given passage?

(A) The author creates a binary between uniformity and diversity in matters of education.
(B) It upholds a uniform and stable system of education.
(C) It holds uniformity rather brutish, but necessary for the society.
(D) It holds diversity in education a key to human excellence and progress.

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

1. (A) and (B) only

2. (A) and (C) only

3. (A) and (D) only

4. (B) and (D) only

Correct Option: 3. (A) and (D) only

Explanation: The passage highlights the contrast between uniformity and diversity in education, emphasizing the superiority of diversity as a means to achieve human excellence and progress. While the passage criticizes uniformity as brutish, it does not suggest that uniformity is necessary or desirable. Hence, statements (A) and (D) are correct.

Question 9: Match List-I with List-II.

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

1. (A) - (I), (B) - (II), (C) - (III), (D) - (IV)

2. (A) - (II), (B) - (I), (C) - (III), (D) - (IV)

3. (A) - (II), (B) - (III), (C) - (IV), (D) - (I)

4. (A) - (IV), (B) - (III), (C) - (II), (D) - (I)

Correct Option: 3. (A) - (II), (B) - (III), (C) - (IV), (D) - (I)

Explanation:

• (A) "Win hands down" means to conquer easily → (II).

• (B) "Learn the hard way" means to learn from bad experiences → (III).

• (C) "To feel blue" means to feel miserable → (IV).

• (D) "Take to one’s heel" means to run away → (I).

Thus, the correct matches are as per option 3.

Question 10: Rearrange the following sentences to get a meaningful paragraph:

(A) All Indian water bodies within and near population centres are now grossly polluted with organic and hazardous pollutants.
(B) India is facing a water situation that is significantly worse than any that previous generations had faced.
(C) That’s why interstate disputes over river waters are becoming intense and widespread.
(D) Not a single Indian city can provide clean water that can be consumed from a tap on a 24 × 7 basis.

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

1. (C), (A), (D), (B)

2. (C), (B), (A), (D)

3. (C), (D), (A), (B)

4. (B), (A), (D), (C)

Correct Option: 4. (B), (A), (D), (C)

Explanation: The logical sequence starts with the statement (B), which sets the context of India's worsening water situation. Then (A) explains the pollution problem. Next, (D) highlights the lack of clean drinking water. Finally, (C) concludes with the consequences, such as interstate disputes over river waters. Hence, the correct arrangement is (B), (A), (D), (C).

CMAT 2025 Language Comprehension Questions with Solutions PDF

If a candidate wises for more CMAT Language comprehension practice, they can download and study the given below ebook for an enhanced CMAT 2025 language comprehension practice.

Download Free CMAT Language Comprehension MCQs PDFs