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Question

In the following question, out of the four alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted for the given words/sentence.

That cannot be expressed in words.

This question was previously asked in
SSC CGL 2016 (Tier 1) Previous Year Question Paper (11-Sep-2016) (Shift 2)
The correct answer is

ineffable

Understanding One Word Substitutes

The question asks for a single word that can replace the phrase "That cannot be expressed in words." This type of question tests your vocabulary and ability to understand precise meanings of words.

Analyzing the Phrase: Cannot Be Expressed in Words

The phrase "That cannot be expressed in words" refers to something that is too intense, profound, or abstract to be adequately described or put into language. It implies a feeling, quality, or experience that goes beyond the limits of verbal description.

Evaluating the Options

Let's examine each given option to determine which one correctly substitutes the phrase:

  • Indelible: This word means making marks that cannot be removed, or making a lasting impression. For example, indelible ink or an indelible memory. This does not mean something cannot be expressed in words.
  • Ineffable: This word means too great or extreme to be expressed or described in words. It is derived from the Latin word 'ineffabilis', which means 'unspeakable'. This meaning perfectly matches the phrase "That cannot be expressed in words."
  • Ingrate: This word refers to an ungrateful person. Someone who does not show thanks. This is completely unrelated to something that cannot be expressed in words.
  • Inexorable: This word means impossible to stop or prevent (usually a process or person). For example, inexorable fate or inexorable progress. This does not relate to the ability to express something in words.

Identifying the Correct One Word Substitute

Based on the analysis of the options, the word that means "That cannot be expressed in words" is ineffable.

Detailed Explanation of Ineffable

The term 'ineffable' is often used to describe profound experiences, feelings, or qualities that are difficult or impossible to put into words. Examples might include the feeling of awe when witnessing a natural wonder, the depth of spiritual enlightenment, or the complexity of true love. It suggests that language is insufficient to capture the full essence or magnitude of the subject.

Word Meaning Substitution for "That cannot be expressed in words"?
Indelible Cannot be removed or forgotten; lasting. No
Ineffable Too great or extreme to be expressed or described in words. Yes
Ingrate An ungrateful person. No
Inexorable Impossible to stop or prevent. No

Revision Table: One Word Substitutes

Phrase/Sentence One Word Substitute
That cannot be expressed in words Ineffable
Cannot be removed or washed out Indelible
An ungrateful person Ingrate
Impossible to stop or prevent Inexorable

Additional Information: Expanding Your Vocabulary

Learning one-word substitutes is a great way to improve your English vocabulary for competitive exams and everyday communication. Understanding the nuances between similar-sounding words is crucial. For instance, while 'ineffable' relates to something beyond verbal expression, other words describe different limitations:

  • Inarticulate: Unable to express oneself clearly or fluently.
  • Unutterable: Too great, intense, or awful to be expressed in words. (Similar to ineffable, often with a negative connotation).
  • Indescribable: Difficult or impossible to describe. (A broader term, might imply complexity rather than impossibility).

Focusing on the roots and contexts in which these words are used can help you remember their meanings effectively.

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Similar Questions

  1. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute for the given group of words.

    One who studies the occult meanings of numbers and their supposed influence on human life

  2. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute for the given group of words.

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  3. Directions: Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute for the given group of words.

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  7. In the following question, out of the four alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted for the given words/sentence.

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  8. Select the word which means the same as the group of words given.

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Important Questions from One Word Substitution

  1. For the expression which has been underlined in each of the following sentences, choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which most nearly expresses its meaning.

    The institution decided to give Mrs. Roy’s job to her son not because she was a social worker, but because she haddied in harness.

  2. For the expression which has been underlined in each of the following sentences, choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which most nearly expresses its meaning.

    Your ambition should be inconsonance withyour capabilities.

  3. For the expression which has been underlined in each of the following sentences, choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which most nearly expresses its meaning.

    I could not go up in lifefor want ofproper guidance.

  4. For the expression which has been underlined in each of the following sentences, choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which most nearly expresses its meaning.

    Though he was arrogant, I could notdispense withhis services.

  5. For the expression which has been underlined in each of the following sentences, choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which most nearly expresses its meaning.

    In spite of his hard work, he wasmade a scapegoatfor the failure of the project

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