Question 7 (B) - iii - Sample Paper 1 by Teachoo - Teachoo Sample Paper - English Class 9

Which phrase would correctly substitute 'a simple jab of the knife', in the given sentence from the extract. Not a simple jab of the knife will do it. 

A. A gentle poke of the blade

B. A sharp cut of the scissors

C. A hard hit of the hammer

D. A swift slash of the saw

Answer:

Answer as written by the student:

The phrase that would correctly substitute ‘a simple jab of the knife’, in the given sentence from the extract, is A. A gentle poke of the blade.

Step-by-step explanation of the answer:

• To answer this question, we need to understand the meaning of the phrase ‘a simple jab of the knife’ and how it relates to the extract. 📖
• The phrase ‘a simple jab of the knife’ is a figurative expression that means a quick and easy action that causes little damage or effect. It is used to show that killing a tree is not a simple or easy task, but a long and difficult one. 🗡️
• In the context of the extract, the phrase ‘a simple jab of the knife’ is contrasted with the description of the tree’s growth and survival. The tree has grown slowly consuming the earth, rising out of it, feeding upon its crust, absorbing years of sunlight, air, water, and sprouting leaves. The tree is strong, resilient, and complex. It cannot be killed by a simple jab of the knife. 🌳
• Therefore, the phrase that would correctly substitute ‘a simple jab of the knife’, in the given sentence from the extract, is A. A gentle poke of the blade. This phrase also means a quick and easy action that causes little damage or effect. It is similar in meaning and structure to the original phrase. 🙌
• We can eliminate the other options because they do not match the meaning or structure of the original phrase. Option B is wrong because a sharp cut of the scissors implies a more severe and precise action that could cause more damage or effect. Option C is wrong because a hard hit of the hammer implies a more forceful and violent action that could cause more damage or effect. Option D is wrong because a swift slash of the saw implies a more fast and aggressive action that could cause more damage or effect. ❌