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Toasted English: NBSE class 9 English notes, questions, answers
Get notes, questions, answers, and pdf of NBSE chapter 5 class 9 English Toasted English by R.K. Narayan. However, these solutions/answers are only for reference and should be modified or changed according to needs.
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Summary
The author discusses how American English has evolved from British English and become more direct and informal. He calls this process “toasting” English.
In America, signs and instructions are more straightforward without complex formal language. For example, in parks the signs just say “Newly Planted, Don’t Walk” instead of wordy legalese like in Britain. The author notices on office doors in America they simply say “Do Not Enter” or “Keep Out.”
The author explains how Americans have created versatile keywords that can be used flexibly in many contexts. For instance, “check” can mean investigate, verify, a ticket, a check room, or checking in/out of a hotel. Another flexible American word is “fabulous” which can mean anything from a compliment to eccentric behavior.
Other examples are “OK” and “yeah.” The author says “yeah” is unique because it ends a sentence decisively without needing to add “sir” or “darling.” In contrast, “yes” can be prolonged with a hissing sound.
The author also compares English usage on a London bus to show differences. Conductors say “Thank you” politely instead of just demanding “Ticket.”
When a receptionist asks “Can I help you?” it implies you may be in the wrong place and should leave. Saying “Would you like to wait?” when making people wait gives the illusion of choice.
The author says English in India so far is mostly used in academic and official circles. Now it’s time for a distinctly “Bharat brand of English” to emerge in everyday life. It should maintain proper grammar but have a local Indian flavor.
The author suggests Indian English can achieve this without corrupting the language. It should be like the Madras handloom check shirt or Tirupati doll – following design rules while exhibiting Indian craftsmanship.
Textual questions and answers
Multiple Choice Questions
1. The title of the story is an expression used…………
A. across the globe B. in Bharat C. in Britain D. in America
Answer: D. in America
2. The Americans abandoned various British things but could not abandon their………..
A. language B. culture C. ideas D. eating habits
Answer: A. language
3. In American English the use of a word is………….multi-dimensional than/as in British English.
A. less B. as C. more D. can’t really tell
Answer: C. more
4. ‘Ticket ticket’ will be heard on a/an………..bus while ‘Thank you’ will be heard on a/an………..bus.
A. British; American B. American; British C. British; Bharat D. Bharat; American
Answer: A. British; American
5. Bharat English will………….
i. honour the rules of the language ii. respect English grammar iii. leave an Indian stamp on the language iv. self sufficient
A. i, ii, and iv B. i, iii, and iv C. i, ii, and iii D. ii, iii, and iv
Answer: C. i, ii, and iii
Read and write
1. What does ‘toasted English’ refer to in American restaurants?
Answer: According to the author R.K. Narayan, ‘toasted English’ refers to English muffins which, though being made in America, now retain ‘English’ as a sort of concession to their origin.
2. What has happened as a result of the ‘toasting’ of English in America?
Answer: The result of ‘toasting’ of English in America has led to the abandonment of formalism surrounding the use of the English language.
3. How have the Americans simplified the language? Give examples.
Answer: The Americans prefer using shorter sentences that are to the point, leaving no room for ambiguity. Some examples of this are, instead of using passive voice on signboards, direct instructions are given like ‘Don’t enter’, ‘Newly painted’, ‘Don’t walk’, ‘Go’, etc.
4. What does the author mean by ‘the American National Expression’? Why does he say so?
Answer: ‘The American National Expression’ refers to the word ‘check’ which is used with multiple meanings. It can be used in different situations. Exaggerating the point, the author says that even if someone is ever hard up for a noun or a verb he may safely utter the word ‘check’ and feel confident that it will fit in.
5. The author approves and disapproves of American English in certain senses. Give examples to elaborate.
Answer: The author approves simplified instructions that Americans use, especially for signboards in public places and for motorists like the word ‘go’ as they can be easily followed without peering out and studying the notice. He, however, disapproves of the way American English disrespects the rule of law and the dignity of grammar when someone says something like ‘Wer U goin, man?’
6. How, according to the author, can the mongrelisation of English be prevented?
Answer: According to the author, the mongrelisation of English can be prevented by respecting the rule of law and maintaining the dignity of grammar.
7. How does the author visualise Bharat English?
Answer: The author, R.K. Narayan, envisions that Bharat English would respect the rule of law and maintain the dignity of grammar. He said that the Bharat brand would have to come to the dusty street, to the marketplace, under the banyan tree and have a swadeshi stamp on it unmistakably, like the Madras handloom check shirt or the Tirupati doll.
Think and Write
1. Humour is the quality of a literary or informative work that makes the characters and/or situations seem funny, amusing, or ridiculous. Do you appreciate the humour in this piece? Support your answer with examples.
Answer: Yes, I appreciate the humour in the essay. The author quite skillfully made his points clear to the readers in an amusing narrative that would have been completely the opposite in any other case. Several examples can be cited to show the humour in the piece, like Narayan referring to the American version of English as ‘toasted’ English, because though the Americans retained the English language after ousting the British, they modified it over time and made it their own. His exaggeration that one can safely say ‘check’ in any situation and believe that it would fit in is also a hilarious way of making the readers understand the wide use of the word to mean different things in different situations.
2. Do you agree with Narayan that we need a ‘Bharat’ brand of English? Why?
Answer: Yes, I do think we need a Bharat brand of English because English in India so far has had a comparatively confined existence in the country—chiefly in the halls of learning, justice, or administration. Now the time is ripe for it to come to the dusty street, to the marketplace, under the banyan tree. The English must adopt the complexion of our life and assimilate its idiom. Bharat English will respect the rule of law and maintain the dignity of grammar, but still have a swadeshi stamp on it unmistakably.
3. Give examples of Indian words that have been incorporated into the English dictionary.
Answer: Some of the English words that have been incorporated into the English dictionary are dhoti, hartal, guru, samosa, etc.
4. While using English for social or business communication, what skills should one master, according to you?
Answer: For effective use of English in social or business communication, mastering the following skills is essential:
- Clarity and Conciseness: Communicate your ideas clearly and succinctly to avoid misunderstandings.
- Proper Grammar and Vocabulary: Use correct grammar and an appropriate vocabulary to convey your message accurately.
- Effective Listening: Active listening is crucial for understanding others and responding appropriately.
- Cultural Awareness: Being aware of and sensitive to cultural differences can enhance communication and avoid misinterpretations.
Extra MCQs
1. What is referred to as ‘toasted English’ in American restaurants?
A. British muffins B. English muffins C. American muffins D. French toast
Answer: B. English muffins
2. What does the author imply about the American language?
A. It has completely discarded its British origins B. It is unchanged from British English C. It has adapted while retaining some British elements D. It is entirely different from any form of English
Answer: C. It has adapted while retaining some British elements
3. According to the author, what has been abandoned in American English?
A. Formalism B. Vocabulary C. Grammar D. Accent
Answer: A. Formalism
4. What does the author suggest about the usage of the Passive Voice in America?
A. It is preferred B. It is avoided C. It is mandatory D. It is not mentioned
Answer: B. It is avoided
5. How are signboards in Berkeley’s parks described?
A. Complicated B. Direct C. Lengthy D. Ambiguous
Answer: B. Direct
6. What is the ‘American National Expression’ according to the author?
A. Fabulous B. Check C. Okay D. Yeah
Answer: B. Check
7. Which word is used to describe something that has a universal multi-purpose use in America?
A. Check B. Go C. Wait D. Enter
Answer: A. Check
8. How is the word ‘fabulous’ used in American English?
A. Strictly as per dictionary definition B. Rarely C. In a broad sense D. To express dissatisfaction
Answer: C. In a broad sense
9. What is the term ‘O.K.’ known for?
A. Its difficulty to pronounce B. Its comprehensive sense C. Its rarity D. Its formal usage
Answer: B. Its comprehensive sense
10. How is ‘Yeah’ described in contrast to ‘Yes’?
A. More formal B. Less conclusive C. Ends a sentence without ado D. Longer to pronounce
Answer: C. Ends a sentence without ado
11. Where will you not hear ‘Ticket Ticket’ according to the author?
A. On a London bus B. In America C. In Bharat D. In a theater
Answer: A. On a London bus
12. What does a receptionist’s question ‘Can I help you?’ imply?
A. A genuine offer of assistance B. An inquiry about your presence C. A demand for quick departure D. A request for identification
Answer: B. An inquiry about your presence
13. What does the author propose for English in India?
A. To restrict its use B. A Bharat brand of English C. To keep it confined to formal settings D. To blend it with regional languages
Answer: B. A Bharat brand of English
14. According to the author, where has English had a confined existence in India?
A. In casual conversations B. In popular media C. In halls of learning, justice, or administration D. In rural areas
Answer: C. In halls of learning, justice, or administration
15. What does ‘Bharat English’ aim to achieve?
A. To eradicate English B. To respect grammar rules while having a local stamp C. To mimic American English D. To formalize regional dialects
Answer: B. To respect grammar rules while having a local stamp
16. Who is the author of the essay?
A. Mark Twain B. R.K. Narayan C. J.K. Rowling D. Ernest Hemingway
Answer: B. R.K. Narayan
Extra Questions and Answers
1. What does the author mean by “toasted English” in the first paragraph?
Answer: The author refers to “toasted English” as a metaphorical representation of how the English language has been adapted and transformed in America, much like English muffins are toasted in American restaurants. This transformation involves shedding much of the formalism associated with the language’s British origins, allowing it to flourish and take on a distinct character in the American context.
2. What is an example given of more direct American English compared to British English?
Answer: An example of more direct American English compared to British English is the use of signs in parks. Instead of a ceremonious British sign like “Trespassing Prohibited”, American signs would straightforwardly say “Newly Planted, Don’t Walk” or “Absolutely No Parking”, which communicate messages more directly and leave less room for interpretation.
3. How have Americans “freed the language from the stifling tyranny of the Passive Voice”?
Answer: Americans have “freed the language from the stifling tyranny of the Passive Voice” by using more active and direct expressions. Instead of lengthy and formal inscriptions typical in British English, Americans opt for concise and straightforward phrases such as “Do Not Enter” and traffic signs that simply say “Go” or “Wait”, thereby making communication more efficient and clear.
4. What does the author notice about signs in American parks and streets?
Answer: The author notices that signs in American parks and streets are notably more direct and to the point compared to their British counterparts. American signs tend to avoid the passive voice and lengthy explanations, opting instead for brief, clear instructions like “Newly Planted, Don’t Walk” or “Absolutely No Parking”.
5. How does the author contrast British and American official language regarding laws and regulations?
Answer: The author contrasts British and American official language by highlighting the verbosity and formality of British language in laws and regulations, which might include a twenty-line inscription to convey a message. In contrast, American language is much more direct, with succinct phrases like “Do Not Enter” that convey the necessary information without the need for lengthy explanations.
6. What does the author find startling about the “Mark Stevens-Keep Out” sign?
Answer: The author finds it startling that the sign “Mark Stevens-Keep Out” explicitly names Mark Stevens, a busy television personality who does not like to be disturbed, wondering why Stevens would announce his name on the door if he did not like interruptions. This directness and personalization of the sign is seen as a minor mystery and an example of American straightforwardness.
7. What are some examples of versatile “basic keywords” in American English given in the passage?
Answer: Examples of versatile “basic keywords” in American English include the word “check”, which can be used in a wide range of contexts, such as to investigate, examine, or as a noun for a ticket or token. Other examples include “fabulous”, which is used freely and can mean anything from eccentric to charmingly lunatic, and “O.K.” or “okay”, which is a comprehensive and self-sufficient expression used to affirm or agree without the need for additional respect markers.
8. How does the author describe the usage of “check” as an American national expression?
Answer: The author describes the usage of “check” as the American National Expression, noting its versatility and widespread application in various contexts. It can mean to find out, investigate, examine, verify, or even refer to a ticket, a place to leave possessions temporarily, or actions such as checking in and out of a hotel. The word “check” is so adaptable that it can fit many situations, making it a staple in American English.
9. What does the author say is unique about the word “yeah”?
Answer: The author notes that the word “yeah” is unique in its brevity and the way it conclusively ends a sentence, contrasting with the more prolonged sibilant sound of “yes”. “Yeah” is described as a short, base-of-the-tongue grunt that effectively snaps any further continuation of a sentence, marking a distinct and informal way of affirming or agreeing.
10. How does the author contrast the usage of “yes” and “yeah”?
Answer: The author contrasts “yes” and “yeah” by describing “yes” as a word that involves more time due to its sibilant sound, which could be prolonged, whereas “yeah” is uttered quickly and ends the sentence abruptly. This makes “yeah” more informal and direct, fitting the American preference for concise communication.
11. What does the author notice about how London bus conductors address passengers?
Answer: The author notices that London bus conductors address passengers with a high degree of politeness, saying “Thank you” both when collecting fares and after receiving them, unlike the directness observed in American English. This level of courtesy reflects the formal and refined usage of English in Britain.
12. What is the implied meaning when a receptionist asks “Can I help you?”?
Answer: When a receptionist asks “Can I help you?”, the implied meaning is either an inquiry about the visitor’s business there, suggesting they should state their purpose, or an indication that the visitor may have wandered into the wrong place and should leave. This question serves as a polite way of ascertaining the visitor’s intention.
13. What is the difference between how a secretary says “Would you like to wait?” versus the actual meaning?
Answer: The difference is that although the secretary phrases “Would you like to wait?” as a question, implying a choice, there really is no option given to the visitor. The expected action is for the visitor to thank the secretary and find a seat in the waiting room, despite what their actual preference might be. The question is polite but not intended to offer an actual choice.
14. What does the author mean by English having a “comparatively confined existence” in India?
Answer: The author means that, until the point of writing, English in India had been limited mainly to formal settings such as educational institutions, courts of law, and government offices. It had not fully permeated everyday life or the common public spaces and dialogues to the extent seen in English-speaking countries.
15. What does the author envision by a “Bharat brand of English”?
Answer: The author envisions a “Bharat brand of English” as a version of the English language that is fully integrated into Indian life, reflecting the local culture, idioms, and nuances. This version of English would maintain the rules of grammar and dignity of the language while unmistakably carrying a local (swadeshi) stamp, akin to a cultural product like a Madras handloom shirt or a Tirupati doll.
16. What examples does the author give of distinctly Indian English?
Answer: The author gives the example of the phrase “Wer U goin, man?” as an instance of distinctly Indian English heard particularly in the railways, representing an informal and localized use of English that deviates from standard forms.
17. How does the author say Indian English should maintain the “dignity of grammar”?
Answer: The author suggests that while Indian English should adopt local color and assimilate Indian idioms, it must respect the rules of grammar and maintain the dignity of the language. This means that while it can reflect local nuances and cultural contexts, it should not devolve into a “mongrelization” of English but should uphold grammatical standards.
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