Target Exam

CUET

Subject

English

Chapter

Comprehension - (Narrative / Factual)

Question:

Read the given passage and answer the four questions that follow:-

As to your studies, I wish you to learn Latin, French, and dancing. I insist particularly on dancing because it is often neglected yet crucial to success in life. First impression depends on two things: dress and address-both within our control. Neglecting these often leads to slights, coldness, and contempt, which even integrity and talents cannot always overcome. Ignoring what ensures others' favourable opinions suggests arrogance or defiance-never without serious consequences. Neglect of appearance implies disrespect for others and often stems from poor sense as much as poor nature. The maxim, "Desire to please, and you will infallibly please," explains this well.

Slovenliness can be cured with effort, but a graceful carriage requires early habit, often with the dancing master's help. Awkwardness creates prejudice; stumbling in manner suggests insecurity or a lack of confidence. In contrast, openness, freedom, and self-possession set others at ease, revealing inner harmony. Grace in women secures affections and signals a well-balanced soul, just as awkwardness in men impedes gallantry and connection.

Lastly, avoid pouring over books until bent double; this habit is hard to break and harmful to both health and esteem. A stoop diminishes public and private standing. You are upright now, walking boldly and spiritedly preserve this carefully. Elasticity of limbs and upright deportment is vital to worldly success as much as actions.

Do not, by neglecting how to enter a room properly, stumble at the very threshold of good graces. Remember, nothing prejudices people more than awkwardness.

The maxim "Desire to please, and you will infallibly please" implies that _____.

Options:

genuine intent to please others resonates positively and usually succeeds

overdoing the efforts to please others often involves compromise and bears negatively

desire to please ends up in neglect of one's own happiness

sycophancy can unerringly lead you to be out of favour

Correct Answer:

genuine intent to please others resonates positively and usually succeeds

Explanation:

The correct answer is Option (1) → genuine intent to please others resonates positively and usually succeeds

The author uses the maxim to explain why neglect of appearance and poor "address" (manner/carriage) are so damaging.

  1. The Maxim: "Desire to please, and you will infallibly please."

  2. The Context: The author argues that ignoring what ensures others' favorable opinions "suggests arrogance or defiance" and that neglect of appearance "implies disrespect for others."

The maxim suggests the positive flip side: if you start with the genuine desire or intent (the "Desire to please") to show respect and make a good impression through your appearance and manner, that sincere effort will naturally manifest and be successful in gaining approval ("infallibly please"). It highlights the power of positive intention in social interactions.