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Question

Directions: 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 shortage of funds will render nugatory the implementation of reform policies.

This question was previously asked in
CDS I 2023 English Previous Year Paper (16-April-2023)
The correct answer is

ineffectual

Understanding the Word "Nugatory" in Context

The question asks us to find the word or group of words nearest in meaning to the underlined word "nugatory" in the sentence: "The shortage of funds will render nugatory the implementation of reform policies."

Let's break down the sentence to understand the context. The sentence talks about a "shortage of funds" (lack of money) and how this shortage will affect "the implementation of reform policies". The word "render" means to make something something else. So, the shortage of funds will make the implementation of reform policies "nugatory".

We need to determine what "nugatory" means in this context, where a lack of resources (funds) negatively impacts an action (implementation of policies).

Analyzing the Meaning of "Nugatory"

The word "nugatory" means having no force or effect; useless, futile, or worthless. In the given sentence, if the implementation of reform policies is rendered "nugatory" due to lack of funds, it means the implementation will be ineffective or useless.

Evaluating the Options

Now let's look at the given options and see which one is nearest in meaning to "nugatory":

  1. explicit: This means stated clearly and in detail, leaving no room for confusion or doubt. This is related to clarity of expression, not effectiveness or usefulness. So, it is not the correct meaning.
  2. implicit: This means implied though not plainly expressed. This is the opposite of explicit and is also related to how something is communicated, not its effectiveness. So, it is not the correct meaning.
  3. ineffectual: This means not producing any or the desired effect; ineffective. This word directly describes something that fails to achieve its purpose, which aligns perfectly with the meaning of "nugatory" in the sentence where lack of funds prevents the policies from being effectively implemented.
  4. composite: This means made up of various parts or elements. This describes something formed by combining different things. It has no relation to the effectiveness or usefulness of something. So, it is not the correct meaning.

Identifying the Nearest Synonym

Comparing the meaning of "nugatory" (useless, ineffective, futile) with the options, "ineffectual" (not producing the desired effect) is the closest synonym.

Therefore, the shortage of funds will make the implementation of reform policies ineffective or useless.

Revision Table: Understanding Word Meanings

Word Meaning in Context / General Meaning Relevance to "Nugatory"
Nugatory Useless, futile, ineffective, worthless The target word.
Explicit Clearly stated, definite Unrelated.
Implicit Implied, not clearly stated Unrelated.
Ineffectual Not producing the desired effect, ineffective Nearest synonym to nugatory.
Composite Made up of various parts Unrelated.

Additional Information: Exploring "Nugatory" and its Synonyms

Understanding words like "nugatory" helps improve vocabulary for exams. "Nugatory" is often used to describe something that becomes pointless or ineffective due to circumstances.

Synonyms for "nugatory" include:

  • Ineffectual
  • Futile
  • Useless
  • Worthless
  • Vain
  • Inoperative

Antonyms for "nugatory" could include:

  • Effectual
  • Effective
  • Useful
  • Valuable
  • Productive

Learning words in context, as done with "nugatory" in the sentence about reform policies, is a good way to remember their meanings and how to use them correctly.

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