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Question

In the following question, out of the four alternatives, choose the word which best expresses the meaning of the given word and click the button corresponding to it.

Reticence

The correct answer is

reserve

Understanding Reticence and its Meaning

The question asks us to find the word that best expresses the meaning of the word "Reticence". Let's look at the options provided and understand what each word means.

Analyzing the Word Reticence

The word Reticence refers to the quality or state of being reserved; it means not revealing one's thoughts or feelings readily. Someone who is reticent is quiet and doesn't talk much, often due to shyness, caution, or a preference for privacy.

Evaluating the Options

Let's examine the meaning of each option:

  • substitute: A substitute is a person or thing acting or serving in place of another. For example, a substitute teacher takes the place of the regular teacher. This meaning is unrelated to being quiet or reserved.
  • reserve: Reserve, as a noun, can mean a supply of a commodity not needed for immediate use, or an area of land set aside for special purposes. As a verb, it means to set aside or keep for future use. However, reserve can also be used as a noun or adjective to describe a person's personality, meaning a lack of openness or friendliness; self-restraint in expression. This meaning is very close to the definition of reticence.
  • flatter: To flatter someone means to praise them excessively or insincerely, especially in order to gain something from them. This is related to speech, but in a way that is opposite to being reserved or quiet about one's thoughts.
  • request: A request is an act of asking politely or formally for something. This involves speaking or writing to ask for something, which is not related to being reserved.

Comparing Reticence and Options

Comparing the meaning of "Reticence" (being reserved, not speaking readily) with the meanings of the options:

  • Reticence vs. substitute: Not related.
  • Reticence vs. reserve: Closely related; "reserve" (in the sense of personality) is a synonym for "reticence".
  • Reticence vs. flatter: Opposite meaning.
  • Reticence vs. request: Not related.

Based on the analysis, the word that best expresses the meaning of "Reticence" is "reserve".

Word Meaning Relationship to Reticence
Reticence Reserved, not revealing thoughts/feelings readily The main word
substitute Replacement Not related
reserve Lack of openness, self-restraint in expression Synonym
flatter Praise excessively/insincerely Opposite
request Act of asking for something Not related

Conclusion on Reticence Meaning

The meaning of Reticence is best captured by the word reserve when reserve is used to describe a personality trait of being quiet or not openly expressive. This is why 'reserve' is the correct answer.

Revision Table: Words and Meanings

Word Meaning Summary
Reticence Being reserved or uncommunicative in speech.
substitute A replacement.
reserve Self-restraint, lack of openness (among other meanings).
flatter Praise insincerely.
request An act of asking.

Additional Information on Reticence and synonyms

Understanding related words can further clarify the meaning of "Reticence". Some words that are similar in meaning (synonyms) include:

  • Quietness
  • Shyness
  • Uncommunicativeness
  • Secretiveness
  • Taciturnity (tendency to be quiet and say little)

Words that are opposite in meaning (antonyms) include:

  • Talkativeness
  • Communicativeness
  • Openness
  • Frankness
  • Extroversion

Reticence is often associated with someone who is introspective or careful about what they say, perhaps to avoid mistakes or misunderstandings, or simply due to a quiet nature.

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Important Questions from Synonyms or Antonyms

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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. 

  4. 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.

  5. 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.  

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