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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.

Terse

The correct answer is

Brief

Understanding the Meaning of 'Terse'

The question asks us to find the word that best expresses the meaning of 'Terse' from the given options. To answer this, we need to understand the definition of the word 'Terse'.

The word 'Terse' is an adjective. It describes something that is short and to the point, often sounding a bit abrupt. When someone is terse, they use very few words to express their idea.

Analyzing the Options for 'Terse'

Let's examine each option provided:

  1. Brief: This word means of short duration, or using few words. This aligns well with the meaning of 'Terse'.
  2. Prolix: This word means using or containing too many words; tediously lengthy. This is the opposite of 'Terse'.
  3. Lengthy: This word means of considerable or unusual length, especially in time or space. It implies using many words, the opposite of 'Terse'.
  4. Wordy: This word means using or containing too many words. This is also the opposite of 'Terse'.

Comparing 'Terse' and the Options

Comparing the meaning of 'Terse' with the options, we can see that 'Brief' is the only word that conveys the idea of being short and using few words. The other options ('Prolix', 'Lengthy', 'Wordy') describe the opposite condition – using too many words or being too long.

Therefore, 'Brief' best expresses the meaning of 'Terse'.

Definition of Terse and Related Terms

Here's a quick look at the definitions:

Word Meaning Relationship to 'Terse'
Terse Sparing in the use of words; abrupt. Target word
Brief Of short duration; using few words. Synonym
Prolix Using or containing too many words; tediously lengthy. Antonym
Lengthy Of considerable or unusual length. Antonym
Wordy Using or containing too many words. Antonym

Conclusion: Best Synonym for Terse

Based on the analysis of the definitions, 'Brief' is the word that is closest in meaning to 'Terse'. While 'Brief' can sometimes just mean short in time, in the context of speech or writing, both 'Terse' and 'Brief' imply using few words.

Revision Table: Understanding Vocabulary

Word Meaning Hint Example Usage
Terse Short and to-the-point words He gave a terse reply, clearly annoyed.
Brief Short in time or words She made a brief statement about the incident.
Prolix Too many words, long-winded The professor's prolix lecture was hard to follow.
Lengthy Very long They had a lengthy discussion about the project.
Wordy Using more words than needed His essay was good but a bit wordy.

Additional Information: Expanding Vocabulary Knowledge

Understanding synonyms and antonyms is a crucial part of vocabulary building for exams. Words like 'Terse' are often used in formal contexts. Learning related words helps you express yourself more precisely.

Some other words related to being short and concise in speech/writing include:

  • Concise
  • Succinct
  • Laconic

And words related to using too many words:

  • Voluminous
  • Verbose
  • Garrulous (for speech)

Practicing identifying synonyms and antonyms helps improve reading comprehension and writing skills.

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Important Questions from Synonyms or Antonyms

  1. A sentence with an underlined word is given below. Select the most appropriate antonym for the underlined word.

    Whether the rewards arein commensurate withthe efforts or not, a society will always have workaholics and the shirk workgroups.

  2. The following question consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four words. Select the word that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word and mark your response accordingly.

    Wars leave behind a large number ofemaciatedsoldiers in the camps of both the victorious and the vanquished.

  3. A sentence with an underlined word is given below. Select the most appropriate antonym for the underlined word.

    There was amammothgathering to listen to the leader.

  4. The following question consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four words. Select the word that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word and mark your response accordingly.

    The audience thoroughly enjoyed thehilariousdrama.

  5. A sentence with an underlined word is given below. Select the most appropriate antonym for the underlined word.

    The writer’seruditionin science is revealed in every page of the book.

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