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Question

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

ASTONISHMENT

This question was previously asked in
SSC CGL 2019 (Tier 2) GS Finance & Economics Previous Year Paper (17-Nov-2020)
The correct answer is

Wonder

Finding the Synonym for ASTONISHMENT

The question asks us to find the most appropriate synonym for the word ASTONISHMENT 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 ASTONISHMENT

The word ASTONISHMENT means a feeling of great surprise or wonder.

Analyzing the Options

Let's examine each option to see which one is closest in meaning to ASTONISHMENT:

  • Option 1: Fright

    Fright means a sudden intense feeling of fear. While astonishment can sometimes be accompanied by fear, the primary meaning of fright is fear itself, not surprise or wonder. Therefore, fright is not a synonym for astonishment.

  • Option 2: Composure

    Composure means the state or feeling of being calm and in control of oneself. This is essentially the opposite of being overwhelmed by surprise or wonder. Composure is an antonym for astonishment, not a synonym.

  • Option 3: Wonder

    Wonder means a feeling of amazement and admiration, sometimes tinged with surprise, caused by something beautiful, unexpected, or inexplicable. This definition closely matches the meaning of astonishment, which is a feeling of great surprise or wonder. Therefore, wonder is a strong synonym for astonishment.

  • Option 4: Expectation

    Expectation means a strong belief that something will happen or be the case. Expectation is about anticipating something, whereas astonishment is a reaction to something unexpected. These words have contrasting meanings. Expectation is not a synonym for astonishment.

Identifying the Correct Synonym

Based on the analysis of the options, the word that is most similar in meaning to ASTONISHMENT is Wonder.

Word Meaning Relationship to Astonishment
ASTONISHMENT Great surprise or wonder The word in question
Fright Sudden intense fear Not a synonym
Composure Calmness, self-control Antonym
Wonder Amazement, admiration, sometimes with surprise Synonym
Expectation Anticipation of something happening Not a synonym

Conclusion

The most appropriate synonym for ASTONISHMENT among the given options is Wonder.

Revision Table: Understanding ASTONISHMENT and Synonyms

Term Key Concept Notes
Astonishment Feeling of great surprise/wonder Focus on the intensity of surprise or amazement.
Synonym Word with similar meaning Essential concept for this type of question.
Antonym Word with opposite meaning Important to distinguish from synonyms (like Composure here).
Context How a word is used in a sentence Can subtly change the best synonym, though not applicable in this single-word question.

Additional Information: Expanding Vocabulary

Improving your vocabulary is crucial for language proficiency. Learning synonyms and antonyms is an effective way to do this. When you encounter a new word like ASTONISHMENT, try to think of related words.

  • Words related to surprise: surprise, shock, amazement, wonder, awe, bewilderment.
  • Words related to fear (but distinct from astonishment): fright, terror, dread, panic, apprehension.
  • Words related to calmness (antonyms): composure, serenity, tranquility, calmness, self-possession.

Understanding these related terms helps you use words more precisely and enhances your reading comprehension and writing skills.

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