Directions: Select the most appropriate synonym of the underlined word.
volley
Understanding Collective Nouns for Projectiles
The question asks us to find the most appropriate word to complete the phrase "A _____ of bullets". This requires us to identify a collective noun that describes a group or discharge of bullets.
Analyzing the Options
Let's examine each option to see which one fits the context of bullets:
- Brood: The term 'brood' is typically used to refer to a family of young birds hatched at the same time or, more broadly, to the young of an animal. It does not apply to bullets.
- Posse: A 'posse' is a group of people, typically armed, who have been summoned by a sheriff to assist in law enforcement. This term is for a group of people, not bullets.
- Volley: A 'volley' is defined as a number of missiles, especially bullets, discharged simultaneously. It can also refer to the simultaneous discharge of a number of firearms. This definition perfectly fits the context of "A _____ of bullets".
- Quiver: A 'quiver' is a case for holding arrows. It is associated with archery and arrows, not bullets.
Determining the Correct Term for Bullets
Based on the definitions, the word that correctly describes a group or discharge of bullets is 'volley'. Therefore, "A volley of bullets" is the standard and appropriate phrase.
Conclusion
Comparing the options, 'volley' is the only word that is used as a collective noun or a term to describe a simultaneous discharge specifically related to bullets or similar projectiles. The other options refer to groups of animals, people, or a container for arrows.
Thus, the most appropriate synonym or term to complete the phrase "A _____ of bullets" is 'volley'.
Revision Table: Collective Nouns and Their Uses
| Word | Common Use | Applicability to Bullets |
|---|---|---|
| Brood | Young birds/animals | No |
| Posse | Group of people for law enforcement | No |
| Volley | Simultaneous discharge of bullets/missiles | Yes |
| Quiver | Case for arrows | No |
Additional Information: Collective Nouns for Military Contexts
Understanding collective nouns is important for precise language. While 'volley' specifically refers to the simultaneous firing of bullets, other terms are used in military or projectile contexts:
- A salvo: Similar to a volley, often referring to cannons or artillery.
- A fusillade: A rapid and continuous discharge of firearms.
- A barrage: Heavy, continuous artillery fire directed at a particular area.
Each term has slight nuances in meaning, but 'volley' is the most fitting word among the given options for the phrase "A _____ of bullets" when referring to a single, simultaneous discharge.
Important Questions from Synonyms or Antonyms
Directions: Each item in this section consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four options, (a), (b), (c) and (d). Select the option that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word and mark your response accordingly.
He had the audacity to blame him.
Directions: Each item in this section consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four options, (a), (b), (c) and (d). Select the option that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word and mark your response accordingly.
There is exponential growth in the development of the scientific researches in the recent few decades.
Directions : Item in this section consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four words/group of words (a), (b), (c) and (d). Select the option that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word and mark your response in the Answer Sheet accordingly.
The itinerary of the group’s visit to the hills was given to everyone.
Directions : Item in this section consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four words/group of words (a), (b), (c) and (d). Select the option that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word and mark your response in the Answer Sheet accordingly.
All mortal elements are impermanent.
Directions : Item in this section consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four words (a), (b), (c) and (d). Select the option that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word and mark your response in the Answer Sheet accordingly.
The novel depicts the hapless status of certain sections of society.
