Identify from the given options the word OPPOSITE in meaning to the underlined word according to its meaning in the following sentence. The confectioner dusted a fine layer of sugar on the muffin.
cleaned
Understanding the Word 'Dusted' in the Sentence
The question asks us to find the word that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word 'dusted' as it is used in the sentence: "The confectioner dusted a fine layer of sugar on the muffin."
In this context, 'dusted' means to lightly sprinkle or cover something with a fine powder, in this case, sugar. It's an action of applying a substance.
Analyzing the Options for Opposite Meaning
Let's look at the meaning of each given option:
- scattered: This means to throw or distribute widely. It is similar to sprinkling or dusting, implying the application of something.
- sprinkled: This means to scatter small drops or particles of something. This is very similar in meaning to dusting, especially when applying a fine powder like sugar.
- powdered: This word describes something that is in the form of a powder, or it can mean to apply powder to something. In the context of the sentence, it's related to the substance being applied, not the opposite action.
- cleaned: This means to make something free of dirt, marks, or unwanted matter. It is an action of removing something from a surface.
Identifying the Antonym of 'Dusted'
The word 'dusted' in the sentence describes the action of applying a fine layer of sugar. We are looking for the action that is the opposite of applying a fine layer of something.
Comparing the options:
- 'Scattered' and 'sprinkled' are actions of applying something, similar to 'dusted'. They are not opposites.
- 'Powdered' describes the state of the substance or the act of making something into powder, or applying powder, which is related to the action but not the opposite.
- 'Cleaned' describes the act of removing dirt or unwanted material from a surface. Removing something is the opposite of applying something in this context. If you dust something with powder, cleaning it would involve removing that powder.
Therefore, the word that is most opposite in meaning to 'dusted' (meaning applying a fine layer of powder) is 'cleaned' (meaning removing material from a surface).
| Word | Meaning in Context (or related) | Relationship to 'Dusted' |
|---|---|---|
| Dusted | Applied a fine layer of powder (sugar) | Base word |
| Scattered | Distributed widely | Similar action |
| Sprinkled | Scattered small particles | Similar action |
| Powdered | In the form of powder / applied powder | Related (substance/action) |
| Cleaned | Removed dirt/material | Opposite action |
Conclusion on the Opposite Word
Based on the analysis, the opposite action of applying a fine layer of sugar (dusted) is removing material from the surface (cleaned).
Revision Table: Antonyms of 'Dusted'
| Word | Meaning (Contextual) | Antonym |
|---|---|---|
| Dusted | Applied powder lightly | Cleaned (removed powder/dirt) |
Additional Information: Understanding Antonyms
An antonym is a word that means the opposite of another word. Finding the correct antonym often depends heavily on the context in which the word is used. For example, 'light' can be the opposite of 'dark' (referring to brightness) or the opposite of 'heavy' (referring to weight). In this question, understanding how 'dusted' is used to mean applying powder is crucial to finding its specific opposite.
Recognizing synonyms and antonyms helps improve vocabulary and comprehension skills. Synonyms are words with similar meanings, while antonyms are words with opposite meanings.
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.
