Direction: Out of the four alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted for the given phrase in the following sentences. A person who can speak several languages.
Person Speaking Several Languages: Definition
The question asks for a single word that accurately describes a person who can speak several languages. Understanding the precise meaning of vocabulary terms is crucial for such questions.
Linguist: Understanding the Term
Let's analyze the given options to find the best fit for the phrase "A person who can speak several languages."
| Term | Definition and Relevance to the Question |
|---|---|
| Linguist | A linguist is primarily a person who studies linguistics, which is the scientific study of language. However, in common usage, the term linguist also refers to a person who is skilled in or speaks several foreign languages. Given the choices, this is the most appropriate term for someone proficient in multiple languages. While 'polyglot' is a more direct term for someone who speaks many languages, Linguist is the best available option among the given alternatives. |
| Archaic | This word means very old or old-fashioned, or characteristic of an earlier period. It typically describes language, customs, or styles that are no longer in common use. This term has no connection to a person's ability to speak multiple languages. |
| Literary | This term pertains to literature, written works, or the study of literature. It describes things that are characteristic of or related to literature. This word does not describe a person's language-speaking ability. |
| Bilingual | A bilingual person is someone who can speak two languages fluently. The question specifically asks about a person who can speak "several languages," which implies more than two. Therefore, while related to language ability, bilingual is too specific and narrow to describe someone who speaks "several" languages. |
Multilingual Ability: Choosing the Best Option
Based on the detailed analysis of each option provided:
- The term Linguist is the most suitable because it encompasses the ability to speak several languages, in addition to its primary meaning of someone who studies language.
- Archaic is incorrect as it describes something old or outdated.
- Literary is incorrect as it relates to literature.
- Bilingual is too limited, describing proficiency in only two languages, not "several."
Therefore, the most fitting word to substitute for "A person who can speak several languages" from the given options is Linguist.
Important Questions from One Word Substitution
For the expression which has been underlined in each of the following sentences, choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which most nearly expresses its meaning.
The institution decided to give Mrs. Roy’s job to her son not because she was a social worker, but because she haddied in harness.
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Your ambition should be inconsonance withyour capabilities.
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I could not go up in lifefor want ofproper guidance.
For the expression which has been underlined in each of the following sentences, choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which most nearly expresses its meaning.
Though he was arrogant, I could notdispense withhis services.
For the expression which has been underlined in each of the following sentences, choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which most nearly expresses its meaning.
In spite of his hard work, he wasmade a scapegoatfor the failure of the project
