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Question

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

ENTHUSIASM

This question was previously asked in
SSC Stenographer 2019 Previous Year Paper (24-Dec-2020) (Shift 2)
The correct answer is

zeal

Finding the Synonym for ENTHUSIASM

The question asks us to identify the most appropriate synonym for the word "ENTHUSIASM" from the given options. A synonym is a word or phrase that means exactly or nearly the same as another word or phrase in the same language.

Understanding ENTHUSIASM

ENTHUSIASM is defined as intense and eager enjoyment, interest, or approval.

  • It implies strong positive feeling and energy towards something.
  • Think of someone who is very excited and passionate about a hobby or a project – they show great enthusiasm.

Analyzing the Options

Let's look at each option and determine its meaning:

  1. zeal: Zeal means great energy or enthusiasm in pursuit of a cause or objective. This definition aligns very closely with the meaning of enthusiasm, specifically highlighting the energy and strong feeling towards a goal or interest.
  2. calmness: Calmness is the state of being peaceful, quiet, and free from agitation. This is the opposite of enthusiasm, which involves energy and excitement. Calmness is an antonym, not a synonym.
  3. curiosity: Curiosity is a strong desire to know or learn something. While interest can be a part of enthusiasm, curiosity specifically relates to the desire to gain knowledge, not necessarily the intense energy or enjoyment associated with enthusiasm itself.
  4. anxiety: Anxiety is a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease about something with an uncertain outcome. This is a negative emotion and is completely different from the positive and energetic feeling of enthusiasm.

Identifying the Most Appropriate Synonym

Comparing the meanings, "zeal" is the option that is closest in meaning to "ENTHUSIASM," both describing a strong, energetic, and passionate feeling towards something.

Therefore, the most appropriate synonym for ENTHUSIASM is zeal.

Comparison of Words
Word Meaning Relationship to Enthusiasm
ENTHUSIASM Intense and eager enjoyment, interest, or approval. Base word
zeal Great energy or enthusiasm in pursuit of a cause or objective. Synonym
calmness State of being free from agitation; tranquility. Antonym
curiosity Desire to know or learn something. Related to interest, but not same as intense energy/enjoyment.
anxiety Feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease. Unrelated; different emotion.

Revision Table: Understanding Vocabulary

Key Vocabulary Words and Meanings
Word Definition Example Sentence
ENTHUSIASM Intense and eager enjoyment, interest, or approval. She showed great enthusiasm for the new project.
Zeal Great energy or enthusiasm in pursuit of a cause or objective. He worked with great zeal to finish the task on time.
Calmness The state of being peaceful and quiet. He faced the challenge with remarkable calmness.
Curiosity A strong desire to know or learn something. Her curiosity led her to explore ancient ruins.
Anxiety A feeling of worry or nervousness. He felt anxiety before the big exam.

Additional Information: Expanding Vocabulary

Understanding synonyms is crucial for building a strong vocabulary. While words might be synonyms, they can sometimes have slightly different connotations or be used in specific contexts. For example, "zeal" often implies enthusiasm directed towards a particular goal or cause, sometimes with a strong sense of dedication.

Other potential synonyms for enthusiasm, depending on the context, might include:

  • Passion
  • Eagerness
  • Excitement
  • Ardor
  • Fervor

Learning antonyms is also helpful. The antonyms for enthusiasm include indifference, apathy, reluctance, and calmness.

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