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Question

Each item in this section consists of a sentence with an underlined word(s) followed by four words/group of words. Select the option that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word and mark your response on the Answer Sheet accordingly.

The officer was reprimanded by the court for delaying the case

This question was previously asked in
CDS II 2021 General Knowledge Previous Year Paper (14-Nov-2021)
The correct answer is

admonished

Finding the Nearest Meaning of 'Reprimanded'

The question asks us to find the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word "reprimanded" in the sentence: "The officer was reprimanded by the court for delaying the case". To answer this, we need to understand the meaning of "reprimanded" and then compare it with the meanings of the given options.

Understanding 'Reprimanded'

"Reprimanded" means to be criticized formally and severely, especially by an authority figure, for doing something wrong. It often involves a stern talking-to or a formal warning. When the court reprimanded the officer, it means the court formally expressed strong disapproval of the officer's action (delaying the case).

Think of it as a formal telling-off or rebuke.

Analyzing the Options for Nearest Meaning

Let's look at the meanings of the given options:

  1. admonished: This word means to warn or scold someone gently but firmly. While it can be less severe than a full reprimand, it shares the core meaning of expressing disapproval or cautioning against something wrong. It is a form of formal correction.
  2. appreciated: This means to recognize the full worth of or to be grateful for something. This is the opposite of being criticized or scolded.
  3. praised: This means to express warm approval or admiration. Like "appreciated," this is the opposite of being criticized or formally corrected.
  4. disliked: This describes a feeling of not liking something or someone. While the court might dislike the officer's actions, "reprimanded" describes the action taken by the court, not just a feeling. It's a formal response involving criticism, not just a passive feeling.

Comparing Meanings: Reprimanded vs. Options

Comparing "reprimanded" with the options:

  • "Reprimanded" is a strong, formal criticism for wrongdoing.
  • "Admonished" is a formal warning or gentle scolding, sharing the core idea of formal disapproval or correction.
  • "Appreciated" and "praised" are positive actions, the opposite of "reprimanded".
  • "Disliked" is a feeling, not a formal action of correction or criticism.

While "admonished" might sometimes imply a less severe tone than "reprimanded," it is the closest option among the choices that describes a formal expression of disapproval or correction for an action.

Word Meaning Relation to 'Reprimanded'
Reprimanded Formal, severe criticism or rebuke for wrongdoing. Base word
Admonished Warned or scolded gently but firmly; formal caution. Nearest meaning (formal disapproval/correction)
Appreciated Recognized worth; grateful. Opposite meaning
Praised Expressed warm approval or admiration. Opposite meaning
Disliked Had a feeling of not liking. Describes a feeling, not a formal action of criticism.

Conclusion: Finding the Synonym for Reprimanded

Based on the analysis, "admonished" is the word that is nearest in meaning to "reprimanded" in the context of formal correction or disapproval by an authority like a court.

Revision Table: Vocabulary building

Reviewing the key terms:

Word Meaning in Context Antonyms/Opposites
Reprimanded Formally and severely criticized for a mistake. Praised, Appreciated, Commended
Admonished Warned or corrected gently but firmly. Praised, Encouraged

Additional Information: Exploring Synonyms of Reprimanded

Understanding nuances between similar words is important for English vocabulary. While "admonished" is the closest option provided, other words can also be synonyms for "reprimanded" depending on the level of severity and formality:

  • Rebuke: Similar to reprimand, a sharp disapproval or criticism.
  • Censure: Formal strong disapproval.
  • Scold: To angrily tell someone that they have done something wrong (can be less formal than reprimand).
  • Chide: To scold or rebuke gently.
  • Reprove: To reprimand or censure someone.

These words help in expressing different degrees and types of criticism or correction.

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