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Question

Directions : In the following items select the option that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word in the given sentences and mark your response on the Answer Sheet accordingly.

Early humans may have had a rudimentary understanding of certain mathematical concepts.

This question was previously asked in
CDS 2 2026 Maths Question Paper (13-Sep-2026)
The correct answer is
elementary

Rudimentary Meaning: Finding the Closest Synonym

The question asks for the word closest in meaning to 'rudimentary'. The sentence is: "Early humans may have had a rudimentary understanding of certain mathematical concepts."

Understanding 'Rudimentary'

'Rudimentary' means representing a basic or undeveloped stage; elementary or primitive.

Analyzing the Options

  • elementary: Relating to the simplest or basic level of something; fundamental.
  • nuanced: Having subtle differences or shades of meaning; complex.
  • radical: Thoroughgoing; far-reaching; relating to fundamental principles.
  • special: Better, greater, or otherwise different from what is usual.

Selecting the Best Fit

In the context of the sentence, early humans likely possessed a basic level of understanding mathematical concepts. Comparing the options:

  • 'Elementary' directly aligns with the meaning of basic or fundamental.
  • 'Nuanced' suggests complexity, which contradicts the idea of rudimentary.
  • 'Radical' implies fundamental change or extremity, not fitting the context of a basic understanding.
  • 'Special' implies uniqueness or superiority, which doesn't match 'rudimentary'.

Therefore, 'elementary' is the nearest synonym for 'rudimentary' in this sentence.

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