NCERT Solutions for Class 5th English Chapter 1 B. Complete the phrases — Let us Learn
Book page 4 Updated on2026-09-19
Q1.
Note the following phrase: a pair of shoes. The word ‘pair’ is used in all the phrases given below. Fill in the blanks and complete the phrases.
1. a pair of ...................The picture printed beside phrase 1 on page 4.
Answer
a pair of scissors
The picture on page 4, at the top right, shows a blue pair of scissors, opened out.
Why we say “a pair”: Scissors are one tool, but they are made of two blades joined together. Both blades must work together to cut. So English calls them a pair of scissors, and we never say “a scissor”.
Q2.
2. a pair of ...................The picture printed beside phrase 2 on page 4.
Answer
a pair of trousers
The picture on the left of page 4 shows a pair of green trousers.
Why we say “a pair”: Trousers are one garment, but they have two legs. Anything made for two legs takes a pair of — trousers, jeans, pyjamas, shorts.
Tip: You may also write a pair of pants. Both are correct English.
Q3.
3. a pair of ...................The picture printed beside phrase 3 on page 4.
Answer
a pair of spectacles
The picture shows a pair of dark blue spectacles — the very thing Papa loses in the poem.
Why we say “a pair”: Spectacles have two lenses, one for each eye, joined by a frame. The poem uses the same phrase: “It was his only pair!”
Q4.
4. a pair of ...................The picture printed beside phrase 4 on page 4.
Answer
a pair of socks
The picture shows two matching green-and-yellow striped socks.
Why we say “a pair”: Here the two things are separate but matching — one sock for each foot. A single sock is of no use, so we buy and count them in twos.
Q5.
5. a pair of ...................The picture printed beside phrase 5 on page 4.
Answer
a pair of gloves
The picture shows two pink gloves.
Why we say “a pair”: One glove for the left hand and one for the right — two separate but matching things, just like socks and shoes.
Q6.
6. a pair of ...................The picture printed beside phrase 6 on page 4.
Answer
a pair of earrings
The picture on the left shows two matching golden earrings hanging side by side.
Why we say “a pair”: One earring for each ear. They are made to match, so they are sold and worn as a pair.
Q7.
7. a pair of ...................The picture printed beside phrase 7 on page 4.
Answer
a pair of racquets
The picture shows two blue tennis racquets crossed over each other, with red-checked handles.
Why we say “a pair”: A game needs two players, so racquets are kept in twos. You may also write a pair of tennis racquets or a pair of bats.
The rule in one line: Use a pair of either for two matching things used together (socks, gloves, earrings, shoes, racquets) or for one thing that is made of two joined parts (scissors, spectacles, trousers).