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Question

Direction: Each item in this section consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four words or group of words. Select the word or group of words that is most similar in meaning to the underlined word.

Divine grace is truly ineffable .

This question was previously asked in
NDA II 2015 GAT Previous Year Paper (16-Dec-2015)
The correct answer is

that which is too great to be expressed in words

Understanding the Meaning of Ineffable

The question asks us to find the word or group of words that is most similar in meaning to the underlined word "ineffable" in the sentence "Divine grace is truly ineffable". To answer this, we need to understand the meaning of the word ineffable.

What does Ineffable Mean?

The word ineffable is an adjective used to describe something that is too extreme, grand, or beautiful to be expressed or described in words. It suggests a quality that goes beyond the capacity of language to convey fully.

Analyzing the Options

Let's examine each option provided and see which one best matches the meaning of ineffable:

  1. that which cannot be rubbed out: This describes something permanent or indelible, like a stain that cannot be removed. This is not the meaning of ineffable.
  2. incapable of being understood: This refers to something incomprehensible or unintelligible. While something ineffable might be hard to understand fully because it's hard to describe, the primary meaning of ineffable relates to expression in words, not necessarily understanding itself.
  3. that which is too great to be expressed in words: This option directly matches the definition of ineffable – something that is so profound, sacred, or overwhelming that language fails to capture its essence.
  4. too powerful to be defeated: This describes something invincible or unconquerable. This meaning is unrelated to the word ineffable.

Identifying the Correct Meaning for Ineffable

Based on the analysis of the definition and the options, the phrase "that which is too great to be expressed in words" most accurately defines the word ineffable.

In the context of the sentence "Divine grace is truly ineffable", it means that the nature or experience of divine grace is so profound, wondrous, or sacred that it cannot be adequately described or put into words.

Conclusion on Ineffable Meaning

The option that is most similar in meaning to ineffable is "that which is too great to be expressed in words".

Word Meaning
Ineffable Too great or extreme to be expressed or described in words.

Revision Table: Mastering Vocabulary

Reviewing key vocabulary helps solidify understanding. Here's a quick summary:

Word Meaning in Context Related Concepts
Ineffable Something beyond description in words. Sublime, Transcendent, Indescribable

Additional Information: Exploring Ineffability

The concept of ineffability appears in various contexts, especially when describing intense emotions, spiritual experiences, beauty, or profound truths. Here are some related points:

  • Spirituality: Many religious and spiritual experiences are described as ineffable because they are considered too sacred or mystical to be fully articulated in human language.
  • Emotions: Extremely strong emotions, like overwhelming joy or sorrow, can sometimes feel ineffable – hard to put into words how deeply one feels.
  • Aesthetics: The beauty of art, music, or nature can sometimes be so striking that it feels ineffable, defying verbal description.
  • Synonyms: Words like 'indescribable', 'unutterable', 'beyond words', and 'transcendent' are often used to convey a similar sense to ineffable.
  • Antonyms: An antonym might be something 'describable', 'expressible', or 'articulable'.

Understanding words like ineffable enriches our vocabulary and ability to describe complex ideas and feelings.

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