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Question

A sentence with an underlined word is given below. Select the most appropriate antonym for the underlined word.

Whether the rewards arein commensurate withthe efforts or not, a society will always have workaholics and the shirk workgroups.

This question was previously asked in
CDS I 2017 General Knowledge Previous Year Paper (05-Feb-2017)
The correct answer is

Disproportionate

The question asks us to find the most appropriate antonym for the underlined word "commensurate" in the given sentence.

The sentence is: "Whether the rewards arein commensurate withthe efforts or not, a society will always have workaholics and the shirk workgroups."

Understanding the Word 'Commensurate'

The word 'commensurate' means corresponding in amount, degree, or size; proportionate. When rewards are commensurate with efforts, it means the rewards are equal or in proportion to the efforts made.

Let's look at the meaning of the given options to find the antonym:

  • Disproportionate: This means too large or too small in comparison with something else; out of proportion. This is the opposite of being proportionate or commensurate.
  • Equal to: This means being the same in quantity, size, degree, or value. This is very similar in meaning to commensurate.
  • Matched: This means corresponding in size, shape, or color, or being brought into correspondence. This is also similar in meaning to commensurate.
  • Unparalleled: This means having no parallel or equal; exceptional. This word relates to being unequalled in quality or degree, not directly to proportionality between two things.

Identifying the Antonym of Commensurate

We are looking for the opposite meaning of 'commensurate' (proportionate). From the analysis of the options:

  • 'Equal to' and 'Matched' are synonyms or similar in meaning to 'commensurate'.
  • 'Unparalleled' is unrelated to the meaning of 'commensurate' in this context.
  • 'Disproportionate' means not proportionate, which is the direct opposite of commensurate (proportionate).

Therefore, the most appropriate antonym for 'commensurate' is 'Disproportionate'.

Final Answer Derivation

The word 'commensurate' implies a balance or appropriate relationship between two things (rewards and efforts in this case). Its antonym would describe a situation where this balance or appropriate relationship is absent, meaning the things are out of proportion. 'Disproportionate' perfectly captures this opposite meaning.

Word Meaning Relationship to Commensurate
Commensurate Proportionate; corresponding in size or amount. Base word
Disproportionate Not proportionate; out of proportion. Opposite (Antonym)
Equal to The same in size, amount, etc. Similar (Synonym)
Matched Corresponding; brought into correspondence. Similar (Synonym)
Unparalleled Having no equal; exceptional. Unrelated

Revision Table: Antonym of Commensurate

Reviewing the key terms and their relationship:

  • Commensurate: Means proportionate or in equal measure.
  • Antonym: A word opposite in meaning to another.
  • Disproportionate: Means not in proportion, unbalanced.

Understanding the core meaning of 'commensurate' is crucial for selecting the correct antonym.

Additional Information on Word Meanings

Let's explore the words further with examples:

  • Commensurate: "The salary will be commensurate with experience." (Meaning the salary will be in proportion to the level of experience.)
  • Disproportionate: "There was a disproportionate amount of attention given to a minor issue." (Meaning too much attention, out of proportion with the issue's importance.)
  • Equal to: "Her skill level is equal to mine." (Meaning the same skill level.)
  • Matched: "The curtains are matched to the sofa." (Meaning they correspond in style or color.)
  • Unparalleled: "Her achievement is unparalleled." (Meaning it's exceptional and has no equal.)

These examples help illustrate why 'Disproportionate' is the clear antonym for 'Commensurate'.

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Important Questions from Synonyms or Antonyms

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  2. Select the synonym of the given word.

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  4. Directions:Choose the synonym of the given word.

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  5. Select the synonym of the given word.

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