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Question

In the following question, out of the given four alternatives, select the one which best expresses the meaning of the given word.

Hackneyed

The correct answer is

Tired

Understanding the Word Hackneyed and its Meaning

The question asks us to select the word or phrase that best expresses the meaning of the given word, "Hackneyed". To answer this, we first need to understand the meaning of "Hackneyed".

The word hackneyed is an adjective used to describe something, usually a phrase or idea, that has been used so often that it is no longer interesting or effective; it is worn out or stale. Think of a cliché – it's an example of something hackneyed.

Analyzing the Options for Hackneyed

Let's look at the given options and see how well they match the meaning of "Hackneyed":

  • Tired: This can mean weary or fatigued, but in the context of words or ideas, it can also imply something that is overused and lacks freshness or vitality. This aligns well with the idea of something being stale or worn out from overuse, which is the core meaning of hackneyed.
  • Fresh: This means new, original, or not previously used. This is the opposite of hackneyed.
  • Uncommon: This means not happening or found frequently; rare. This is the opposite of hackneyed, which is commonplace due to overuse.
  • New: This means not existing before; made, introduced, or discovered recently or for the first time. This is also the opposite of hackneyed.

Evaluating the Best Fit for Hackneyed

Comparing the options to the meaning of "Hackneyed", the word "Tired" is the closest fit. While "tired" can refer to physical exhaustion, when describing language or ideas, it often carries the connotation of being stale, worn out, or lacking originality due to excessive use. This perfectly captures the essence of something being hackneyed.

Conclusion on the Meaning of Hackneyed

Based on the analysis, the option that best expresses the meaning of "Hackneyed" is "Tired", in the sense of being worn out or stale from overuse.

Meaning Comparison
Word Meaning Fit with Hackneyed?
Hackneyed Overused, stale, unoriginal, commonplace --
Tired (in this context) Stale, worn out from overuse Best Fit
Fresh New, original Opposite
Uncommon Rare, not frequent Opposite
New Recent, not used before Opposite

Revision Table: Understanding Vocabulary

Key Vocabulary Check
Word Definition Example Usage
Hackneyed (of a phrase or idea) Having been overused; unoriginal and stale. His speech was full of hackneyed phrases about patriotism.
Tired (in this context) Lacking freshness or effectiveness because of excessive use; stale. The argument felt tired and unconvincing.
Fresh New and original, not previously known or used. She brought a fresh perspective to the problem.

Additional Information: Synonyms and Antonyms for Hackneyed

Exploring synonyms and antonyms can further clarify the meaning of "Hackneyed".

Synonyms for Hackneyed:

  • Stale
  • Overused
  • Trite
  • Banal
  • Commonplace
  • Unoriginal
  • Platitudinous

Antonyms for Hackneyed:

  • Original
  • Fresh
  • New
  • Innovative
  • Unusual
  • Striking

Understanding these related words helps solidify the concept that "Hackneyed" describes something that has lost its impact or appeal because it has been repeated too often.

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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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