Direction: Each item in this section consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four words/group of words. Select the option that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word and mark your response on the Answer Sheet accordingly. The leader said, "I am aghast with the developments so far. I will take time to understand this."
horrified
Understanding the Word Aghast
The question asks us to find the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word "aghast" as used in the given sentence. The sentence is: "The leader said, 'I am aghast with the developments so far. I will take time to understand this.'"
To solve this, we first need to understand the meaning of the word "aghast".
Meaning of Aghast:
- "Aghast" is an adjective.
- It means filled with horror or shock.
- It describes a feeling of great dismay or terror.
Now let's look at how "aghast" is used in the sentence. The leader says they are "aghast with the developments so far" and will "take time to understand this". This suggests the developments are surprising and disturbing, causing a strong negative reaction that requires time to process.
Analyzing the Options for Aghast Synonym
Let's examine each of the given options to see which one is closest in meaning to "aghast" in this context:
- satisfied: This means pleased because you have got what you wanted or expected. This is the opposite of feeling shock or horror about unexpected developments. Therefore, "satisfied" is not the correct meaning.
- sad: This means feeling or showing sorrow; unhappy. While being aghast can involve sadness, "aghast" implies a much stronger feeling of shock, horror, or dismay than just sadness. Sad is a weaker emotion compared to aghast. Therefore, "sad" is not the nearest meaning.
- amused: This means finding something funny or entertaining. This is completely contrary to the meaning of "aghast," which is a negative reaction involving shock or horror. Therefore, "amused" is incorrect.
- horrified: This means filled with horror; extremely shocked. This meaning aligns perfectly with the definition of "aghast". When someone is horrified by developments, they are shocked and dismayed, which fits the context where the leader needs time to understand what has happened because they are aghast.
Conclusion on the Meaning of Aghast
Comparing the meaning of "aghast" with the given options, "horrified" is the word that is nearest in meaning. Both words describe a state of being filled with intense negative feelings like shock, horror, or dismay in response to something unexpected and disturbing.
Therefore, the word nearest in meaning to "aghast" in the given sentence is "horrified".
Revision Table: Word Meaning
| Word | Meaning | How it relates to "aghast" |
|---|---|---|
| Aghast | Filled with horror or shock; greatly dismayed. | The word in question. |
| Satisfied | Pleased or content. | Opposite meaning. |
| Sad | Feeling or showing sorrow; unhappy. | A weaker emotion; not the primary meaning of aghast. |
| Amused | Finding something funny or entertaining. | Opposite meaning. |
| Horrified | Filled with horror; extremely shocked or scared. | Closest synonym; expresses intense shock/dismay. |
Additional Information on Synonyms and Antonyms
Understanding synonyms and antonyms helps improve vocabulary. Here are some related words for "aghast":
- Synonyms: shocked, appalled, dismayed, startled, stunned, astonished, horrified.
- Antonyms: unsurprised, indifferent, pleased, satisfied, composed.
The sentence context is crucial for selecting the best synonym. In this case, "horrified" captures the intensity of the leader's reaction to unexpected and likely negative developments.
Important Questions from Synonyms or Antonyms
Directions: Each item in this section consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four options, (a), (b), (c) and (d). Select the option that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word and mark your response accordingly.
He had the audacity to blame him.
Directions: Each item in this section consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four options, (a), (b), (c) and (d). Select the option that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word and mark your response accordingly.
There is exponential growth in the development of the scientific researches in the recent few decades.
Directions : Item in this section consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four words/group of words (a), (b), (c) and (d). Select the option that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word and mark your response in the Answer Sheet accordingly.
The itinerary of the group’s visit to the hills was given to everyone.
Directions : Item in this section consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four words/group of words (a), (b), (c) and (d). Select the option that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word and mark your response in the Answer Sheet accordingly.
All mortal elements are impermanent.
Directions : Item in this section consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four words (a), (b), (c) and (d). Select the option that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word and mark your response in the Answer Sheet accordingly.
The novel depicts the hapless status of certain sections of society.
