Understanding the Meaning of Plausible

The question asks us to find the word or phrase that best expresses the meaning of the word "Plausible" from the given options. This requires understanding the core meaning of "Plausible" and then comparing it with the meanings of the alternative words.

What Does 'Plausible' Mean?

The word Plausible is an adjective used to describe something, typically an argument, statement, or explanation, that seems reasonable or probable. It suggests that something is believable or credible; it appears to be true or likely to happen based on common sense or available information.

Analyzing the Options

Let's look at the meaning of each option provided:

• Improbable: This means not likely to be true or to happen. It suggests a low probability or lack of believability.
• Unlikely: Similar to improbable, this means not likely to happen, be done, or be true. It also suggests a low chance of occurrence or truth.
• Reasonable: This word has several meanings, but in the context of evaluating a statement or explanation, it means having or showing sound judgment; fair and sensible. It can also mean based on or using good judgment and therefore very likely or appropriate in the circumstances.
• Preposterous: This means contrary to reason or common sense; utterly absurd or ridiculous. It suggests something that is completely unbelievable or senseless.

Comparing Plausible with the Options

Now let's compare the meaning of Plausible (seeming reasonable or probable, credible) with the meanings of the options:

• Plausible vs. Improbable: Improbable is the opposite of probable, while plausible means probable or reasonable. So, Improbable is not a synonym.
• Plausible vs. Unlikely: Unlikely is similar to improbable, indicating a low chance. Plausible indicates something is likely or probable. So, Unlikely is not a synonym.
• Plausible vs. Reasonable: Plausible means seeming reasonable or probable. Reasonable means based on sound judgment and very likely or sensible. These meanings align very closely. A plausible explanation is a reasonable explanation.
• Plausible vs. Preposterous: Preposterous means utterly absurd or ridiculous, which is the opposite of reasonable and credible. So, Preposterous is an antonym, not a synonym.

Why 'Reasonable' is the Best Match for Plausible

Based on the analysis, Reasonable is the word that best expresses the meaning of Plausible. Both words describe something that makes sense, is logical, and appears likely to be true or valid under the circumstances. While "plausible" often specifically refers to the appearance of being true or reasonable, "reasonable" captures the core idea of something being sensible and likely.

Why Other Options Are Incorrect

The other options are incorrect because they are either antonyms or do not convey the same meaning as Plausible:

• Improbable and Unlikely suggest a low probability or lack of believability, which is the opposite of what Plausible suggests.
• Preposterous suggests something completely absurd and contrary to reason, which is the opposite of being reasonable or probable.

Therefore, among the given choices, Reasonable is the best fit for the meaning of Plausible.

Revision Table: Word Meanings

Additional Information: Exploring Plausible and Related Terms

Understanding synonyms and antonyms helps solidify vocabulary knowledge. Here are some related concepts for the word Plausible:

• Synonyms: Believable, credible, probable, conceivable, possible, likely.
• Antonyms: Implausible, unbelievable, incredible, improbable, unlikely, impossible, preposterous, absurd.
• Usage Example: "His explanation for being late was quite plausible, so the teacher accepted it." This means the explanation seemed reasonable and believable.

Mastering such vocabulary is key for improving comprehension and expression in English.