Finding the Synonym for Deteriorated

The question asks us to identify the most appropriate synonym for the underlined word "deteriorated" in the given sentence: "The deteriorated building was declared unsafe for the inmates."

A synonym is a word that has the same or nearly the same meaning as another word. We need to understand what "deteriorated" means, especially in the context of a building, and then look at the options to find the word that matches this meaning.

Understanding the Word Deteriorated

The word "deteriorated" comes from the verb "deteriorate," which means to become progressively worse in quality or character. When applied to a building, it means the building has fallen into disrepair, its condition has worsened over time, and it is no longer in good shape.

The sentence tells us the deteriorated building was "declared unsafe," which supports the idea that its worsening condition made it hazardous.

Analyzing the Synonym Options

Let's examine each option provided:

• 1. Dilapidated: This word is typically used to describe a building or object that is in a state of disrepair or ruin as a result of age or neglect. For example, a dilapidated house might have broken windows, a leaky roof, and crumbling walls.
• 2. Dissipated: This word has several meanings, but they generally relate to scattering or dispersing (like fog dissipating) or wasting (like dissipating energy or wealth). It is not used to describe the physical condition of a building.
• 3. Meliorated: This is the past tense of "meliorate," which means to make something better; improve. This word describes the opposite of deteriorating.
• 4. Reprobated: This word means to condemn or disapprove of strongly. It can also refer to a person considered morally corrupt. It is not used to describe the physical condition of a building.

Finding the Most Appropriate Synonym

Comparing the meanings, "dilapidated" perfectly describes a building that has deteriorated or fallen into disrepair. The other options ("dissipated," "meliorated," and "reprobated") have meanings that are completely unrelated to the physical condition of a building.

Therefore, "dilapidated" is the most fitting synonym for "deteriorated" in the context of a building being unsafe due to its condition.

Revision Table: Word Meanings

Additional Information: Synonyms and Antonyms

Understanding synonyms and antonyms is key to improving vocabulary. Synonyms are words with similar meanings, while antonyms are words with opposite meanings.

• For "deteriorated," we found that "dilapidated" is a close synonym, especially for buildings. Other general synonyms could include worsened, declined, degraded.
• Antonyms for "deteriorated" could include improved, enhanced, restored, maintained.

Paying attention to how words are used in context, as we did with the sentence about the building, helps select the most appropriate synonym.