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Question

Directions: Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.

Widespread

This question was previously asked in
SSC CGL 2020 Tier-II (English) Previous Year Paper (29-Jan-2022)
The correct answer is

Limited

Finding the Antonym of Widespread

The question asks us to find the most appropriate antonym for the word "Widespread". An antonym is a word that has the opposite meaning of another word.

Understanding 'Widespread'

The word 'Widespread' means something that is found or distributed over a large area or number of people. It suggests something that is common, extensive, or prevalent.

  • Example: A widespread rumour means it is known by many people in many places.
  • Example: Widespread use of smartphones means many people use smartphones everywhere.

Analyzing the Options

Let's look at the given options and see which one means the opposite of 'Widespread'.

  1. Famous: This word means well-known or recognized by many people. While something famous might be widespread, the meanings are not directly opposite or even directly related in terms of distribution or extent.
  2. Limited: This word means restricted in size, amount, or extent. It suggests something that is confined to a small area or number. This seems to be the direct opposite of 'Widespread', which suggests a large extent.
  3. General: This word means relating to or affecting all or most people, places, or things; widespread. It can also mean not specific. In the sense of affecting 'most people', it is similar in meaning to widespread, not an antonym.
  4. Overall: This word means including everything; comprehensive. It refers to the totality or the whole. It does not relate to the extent of distribution in an opposing way to 'Widespread'.

Why 'Limited' is the Correct Antonym

Based on the analysis, 'Widespread' indicates a large extent or broad distribution, while 'Limited' indicates a restricted extent or narrow distribution. Therefore, 'Limited' is the most appropriate antonym for 'Widespread'.

Consider the following comparison:

  • A widespread disease affects many people across a large region.
  • A limited outbreak of a disease affects only a small number of people in a small area.

This example clearly shows that 'Widespread' and 'Limited' are opposite in meaning regarding extent and distribution.

Word Meaning Relationship to Widespread
Widespread Found or distributed over a large area or number of people. Base word
Famous Well-known. Unrelated as an antonym
Limited Restricted in size, amount, or extent. Antonym
General Affecting most people or things; widespread. Similar meaning, not antonym
Overall Including everything; comprehensive. Unrelated as an antonym

Thus, 'Limited' is the correct antonym for 'Widespread'.

Revision Table: Understanding Antonyms

Concept Explanation Example
Antonym A word opposite in meaning to another word. Hot <--> Cold
Synonym A word similar in meaning to another word. Happy <--> Joyful
Widespread Extended over a large area or number. Widespread support
Limited Restricted in extent or amount. Limited resources

Additional Information: Expanding Vocabulary

Building your vocabulary is essential for understanding and using the English language effectively. Learning antonyms helps you to grasp the nuances of word meanings and improves your ability to express contrasting ideas.

  • When learning a new word, try to find both its synonyms and antonyms.
  • Use new words and their opposites in sentences to understand their usage in context.
  • Regularly review vocabulary to reinforce your learning.

Understanding words like 'Widespread' and its antonym 'Limited' helps you describe situations accurately, whether talking about the spread of information, the distribution of resources, or the extent of a problem.

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