May 16, 2026

NCERT English Class 10th

The Proposal — Exercise Question Answers (Simple Words)

by Anton Chekhov

Oral Comprehension Check

1. What does Chubukov at first suspect that Lomov has come for?

Chubukov first thinks that Lomov has come to borrow money.

2. Is Natalya’s initial reaction to Lomov’s visit playful or serious?

Her reaction is serious. She talks normally about farming and household matters.

3. Why is Lomov anxious and nervous?

Lomov is nervous because he has come to propose marriage to Natalya. He also has weak health and gets excited easily.

4. What topic starts the first argument?

The first argument starts over the ownership of Oxen Meadows.

5. How does Chubukov react when he learns about the proposal?

He becomes very happy and excited. He immediately agrees to the marriage.

Thinking About the Play

1. What does the play teach us about human nature?

The play shows that people often quarrel over small matters and forget important things. It also shows human foolishness and ego.

2. Why is the play called a farce?

The play is called a farce because it is full of funny situations, loud arguments, exaggeration, and foolish behavior.

3. Why does Lomov come to Natalya’s house?

Lomov comes to ask Natalya to marry him.

4. Why does Natalya begin to panic after Lomov leaves?

Natalya panics because she learns that Lomov had come to propose marriage. She regrets fighting with him.

5. How does the play end?

The play ends with Lomov and Natalya agreeing to marry, but they continue arguing even after the proposal.

Extra Important Questions and Answers

1. Who were fighting over Oxen Meadows?

Lomov and Natalya were fighting over Oxen Meadows.

2. Which dogs were discussed in the play?

The dogs discussed were Guess and Squeezer.

3. Why did Lomov faint?

Lomov fainted because of excitement, stress, and his weak health.

4. Describe Natalya’s character.

Natalya is intelligent, stubborn, argumentative, and emotional.

5. Describe Lomov’s character.

Lomov is nervous, short-tempered, weak-hearted, and emotional.

Short Answer Type Questions

1. Why did Lomov want to marry Natalya?

Lomov wanted a peaceful and settled life. Natalya was a suitable match because she belonged to a wealthy family.

2. How did Chubukov support Natalya during the argument?

Chubukov supported his daughter and joined the quarrel instead of stopping it.

3. What makes the play humorous?

The funny arguments, exaggerated reactions, and silly behavior of characters make the play humorous.

4. What is the main message of the play?

The play teaches that unnecessary arguments and ego create problems in relationships.

One Line Answers

Question	Answer
Who wrote The Proposal?	Anton Chekhov
What type of play is it?	A comedy/farce
Why did Lomov visit Chubukov?	To propose marriage
What was the first argument about?	Oxen Meadows
What was the second argument about?	Hunting dogs
Who is Natalya’s father?	Chubukov
Which dog belonged to Lomov?	Guess
Which dog belonged to Natalya?	Squeezer