Directions: Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow by choosing the correct/most appropriate options: Suresh and Ramesh were two brothers who lived in a small village surrounded by lush green fields. They were known for their peculiar profession – bamboo farming. The brothers had inherited their father's vast bamboo plantation and had been tending to it diligently for years. However, lately, there was a growing concern among the villagers regarding the strange occurrences happening in the bamboo farm. One sunny morning, Suresh and Ramesh set out to inspect their beloved plantation. As they ventured deeper into the dense forest of bamboo shoots, they couldn't shake off the feeling that something was amiss. The bamboo stalks seemed unusually tall and thicker than usual. Moreover, peculiar markings adorned some of the stalks, resembling mysterious symbols. Concerned, they exchanged worried glances, wondering what could have caused this transformation. Days turned into weeks, and the bamboo farm continued to bewilder Suresh and Ramesh. One moonlit night, unable to contain their curiosity any longer, the brothers decided to investigate further. Armed with flashlights and their courage, they cautiously explored the depths of the bamboo plantation. As they delved deeper, they stumbled upon an ancient-looking shrine nestled amidst the towering bamboo shoots. It was adorned with offerings and had an aura of mystical energy around it. Their concern grew, but their curiosity won, and they stepped closer to investigate this peculiar discovery. Little did they know that the shrine was dedicated to a long-forgotten deity, believed to bring prosperity and blessings to those who honored it. The peculiar markings on the bamboo stalks were an ancient script, communicating a message to the brothers. As they deciphered the message, their concern transformed into excitement and awe. The deity was pleased with their devotion to the bamboo farm and had chosen to bless their plantation abundantly. From that day forward, Suresh and Ramesh continued their bamboo farming with renewed vigor and gratitude. The villagers soon witnessed a remarkable transformation in the plantation, with bamboo shoots growing taller, stronger, and more plentiful than ever before. The peculiar happenings turned out to be a blessing in disguise, and the brothers' concern gave way to a deep sense of fulfillment and prosperity, all thanks to their unwavering dedication and their encounter with the mystical shrine.
Choose the antonym of the word 'abundantly' ?
Scarcely
Antonym: Understanding the Word 'Abundantly'
The question asks us to find the antonym of the word 'abundantly' from the given options. To do this, we first need to understand the meaning of 'abundantly'.
- Abundantly: This adverb means in large quantities; plentifully; in a full and rich way. For example, if a plant grows abundantly, it means it grows in large numbers and is very plentiful.
Analyzing the Options for 'Abundantly'
Let's examine each option provided and determine its meaning and relationship to 'abundantly':
- 1. Sparingly: This means in a restricted or small amount; meagerly; not often or not liberally. It implies using or providing something in a careful, economic way, or only in small quantities. This is a possible antonym, as it suggests a small quantity, contrasting with 'large quantities'.
- 2. Excessively: This means to an extreme or unreasonable degree. While it implies a large amount, it usually carries a negative connotation of 'too much'. It is closer to a synonym in terms of quantity rather than an antonym, as it refers to a very large amount.
- 3. Scarcely: This means only just; almost not; hardly any. It indicates a very small amount, an insufficient amount, or a near absence of something. This is a strong antonym, directly opposing the idea of 'plentiful' or 'in large quantities'.
- 4. Lavishly: This means in a sumptuously rich, elaborate, or luxurious manner. It implies a generous or abundant way of doing something, often related to spending or giving. This is closer to a synonym, or describes something done in an abundant manner.
- 5. Profusely: This means to a great degree; in large amounts; copiously. This is a direct synonym of 'abundantly'.
Determining the Best Antonym for 'Abundantly'
When comparing 'sparingly' and 'scarcely' as potential antonyms, 'scarcely' is a more direct and stronger antonym for 'abundantly'.
- 'Abundantly' suggests a state of being very plentiful or present in large quantities.
- 'Sparingly' suggests being present or used in small, controlled amounts, often deliberately.
- 'Scarcely' suggests being almost absent, barely enough, or extremely rare. It conveys a significant lack or deficiency, which is the direct opposite of abundance.
Therefore, 'scarcely' most accurately represents the opposite of being present in large, plentiful amounts, implying a near absence or a very minimal quantity.
The final answer is $\boxed{\text{Scarcely}}$
Important Questions from Reading Comprehension
Why, according to the writer can't people be motivated to use a resource prudently?
1. They feel that others may overuse the resource
2. It is possible to substitute the resource
3. Abundance of the resource availability
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
When do people use resources exhaustively?
The self-interest of people affects the use of renewable resources
People rooted in a locality
Which among the following is closest in meaning with the word 'deplete'?
