All Exams Test series for 1 year @ ₹349 only
Question

Directions: In the following question, out of the four given alternatives, select the one which best expresses the meaning of the given word.

Tarnish

This question was previously asked in
SSC Stenographer 2017 Previous Year Paper (14-Sep-2017) (Shift 1)
The correct answer is

Blot

Understanding the Meaning of Tarnish and its Synonym

The question asks us to find the word that best expresses the meaning of 'Tarnish'. To do this, we need to understand what 'Tarnish' means and then look at the given options to find the closest match.

The word 'Tarnish' typically means to lose or cause to lose lustre, especially as a result of exposure to air or moisture (like metal). It can also mean to make or become less respected or valued; sully (reputation).

Analyzing the Options to Find the Best Synonym

Let's examine each option provided:

  • Incorrupt: This word means not susceptible to corruption; honest and morally upright. This is the opposite of becoming spoiled or having a reputation damaged.
  • Blot: This word can mean a spot or mark, especially on skin or clothing. It can also refer to something that spoils a person's reputation or a surface. For example, a blot on one's character or a blot of ink on a paper. This meaning aligns well with the idea of staining, spoiling, or damaging reputation, which is part of the meaning of 'Tarnish'.
  • Harass: This word means to subject someone to aggressive pressure or intimidation. It is related to troubling or bothering someone, which is not the primary meaning of 'Tarnish'.
  • Embellishment: This word means a decorative detail or feature added to something to make it more attractive. It means to make something more beautiful or interesting, often by adding details. This is the opposite of damaging or spoiling something.

Identifying the Correct Synonym for Tarnish

Comparing the meanings, 'Blot' is the word that most closely aligns with 'Tarnish', particularly in the sense of spoiling or damaging something, whether it's the surface of an object or a person's reputation. 'Tarnish' describes the process or result of losing shine or becoming spoiled, while 'Blot' can describe a mark or stain that causes this spoilage or damage.

Therefore, 'Blot' best expresses the meaning of 'Tarnish' among the given options.

Revision Table: Tarnish and Related Concepts

Word Meaning Relationship to Tarnish
Tarnish Lose lustre; Sully reputation The main word in question
Blot Spot/mark; Something that spoils reputation Best synonym provided
Incorrupt Morally upright; Not susceptible to corruption Antonym (opposite meaning)
Harass Trouble or bother aggressively Unrelated meaning
Embellishment Decoration; Enhancement Antonym (opposite meaning)

Additional Information on Synonyms and Vocabulary

Finding the best synonym involves understanding the nuances of word meanings and how they are used in different contexts. While 'Blot' is a good synonym for 'Tarnish' in the sense of spoiling or damaging, other synonyms for 'Tarnish' might include:

  • Dull (for losing lustre)
  • Discolour (for changing colour)
  • Stain (similar to blot)
  • Sully (for reputation)
  • Blemish (for reputation)

Conversely, antonyms (words with opposite meaning) for 'Tarnish' might include:

  • Shine
  • Brighten
  • Cleanse
  • Enhance
  • Purify
  • Improve

Mastering synonyms and antonyms helps in building strong vocabulary and improving comprehension and expression in English.

Was this answer helpful?

Similar Questions

  1. Directions: Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.

    ENTHUSIASM

  2. Directions: Select the most appropriate antonym of the given word.

    RETRIEVE

  3. Select the most appropriate antonym of the given word.

    SEIZE

  4. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.

    Valuable

  5. Direction: Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.

    Terse

  6. Direction: Select the most appropriate synonym of the underlined word in the following sentence.

    I still cherish those little pranks and naughty tricks that we did during our school days.

  7. Direction: Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.

    Delegate

  8. Select the word that is OPPOSITE in meaning to the underlined word in the given sentence.

    On several occasions he defended the cause of moderation and justice against the fanatical crusaders.

  9. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the underlined word.

    Experts have shown that those who suffer from social anxieties and find it challenging to find a common language with others can overcome these obstacles by watching movies.

  10. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.

    Fame


Important Questions from Synonyms or Antonyms

  1. A sentence with an underlined word is given below. Select the most appropriate antonym for the underlined word.

    Whether the rewards arein commensurate withthe efforts or not, a society will always have workaholics and the shirk workgroups.

  2. The following question consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four words. Select the word that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word and mark your response accordingly.

    Wars leave behind a large number ofemaciatedsoldiers in the camps of both the victorious and the vanquished.

  3. A sentence with an underlined word is given below. Select the most appropriate antonym for the underlined word.

    There was amammothgathering to listen to the leader.

  4. The following question consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four words. Select the word that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word and mark your response accordingly.

    The audience thoroughly enjoyed thehilariousdrama.

  5. A sentence with an underlined word is given below. Select the most appropriate antonym for the underlined word.

    The writer’seruditionin science is revealed in every page of the book.

Need Expert Advice?
Upcoming Exams
UPSSSC PET
October 25, 2026
SSC JE
November 02, 2026
SSC CPO
November 20, 2026
SSC CHSL
November 30, 2026
Test Series
SSC Stenographer img
SSC
SSC Stenographer 2026 Mock Test Series (Latest Version)
1172 Tests 2 Tests Free
3130 Attempts
4.6(269)
English, Hindi

Start Your Preparation with Prepp Mobile App

Download the app from Google Play & App Store
Download the app from Google Play & App Store
Prepp Mobile App