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Question

Directions: Each item in this section consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four words/groups of words. Select the option that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word and mark your response on the Answer Sheet accordingly.

Her left leg was paralysed due to a debilitating disease.

This question was previously asked in
CDS 2 2024 Maths Question Paper (01-Sep-2024)
The correct answer is crippling

Understanding the Nearest Meaning of 'Debilitating'

The task is to identify the word closest in meaning to 'debilitating' as used in the sentence: "Her left leg was paralysed due to a debilitating disease." We need to select the best synonym from the provided options.

Meaning of 'Debilitating'

The word 'debilitating' describes something that causes extreme weakness or makes someone very infirm. A debilitating condition significantly reduces strength and the ability to function normally.

Analyzing the Options

Let's look at each option and how it relates to 'debilitating':

  • Option 1: crippling

    The term 'crippling' means causing severe damage or infirmity, often leading to a loss of physical ability. For example, a crippling injury prevents normal movement.

  • Option 2: sad

    'Sad' relates to feelings of unhappiness. While a disease might cause sadness, the word itself doesn't describe the physical effect of weakening.

  • Option 3: strange

    'Strange' means unusual or peculiar. This word does not convey the meaning of causing weakness.

  • Option 4: critical

    'Critical' means extremely serious or dangerous. A disease can be critical, but 'critical' focuses on the severity or urgency, not specifically on causing weakness or paralysis.

Contextual Fit in the Sentence

The sentence mentions that the person's left leg was paralysed. Paralysis is a condition of losing muscle control and strength, which is a severe impairment. A disease causing such a condition is indeed 'debilitating' because it weakens the body significantly.

Considering the context:

  • 'Crippling' accurately describes a disease that causes paralysis or severe loss of function, fitting the sentence perfectly.
  • 'Sad', 'strange', and 'critical' do not specifically capture the meaning of causing physical weakness or paralysis.

Identifying the Nearest Synonym

Comparing the definitions and the context, 'crippling' is the most appropriate choice as it shares the core meaning of causing severe weakness and impairment, just like 'debilitating'. Both words effectively describe a condition that severely impacts physical ability.

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Important Questions from Synonyms or Antonyms

  1. Select the synonym of the given word.

    STRAY

  2. Select the synonym of the given word.

    ZENITH

  3. Select the antonym of the given word.

    GRANT

  4. Directions:Choose the synonym of the given word.

    ANNOY

  5. Select the synonym of the given word.

    ABILITY

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