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Question

Select the most appropriate antonym of the given word.

RETALIATION

The correct answer is

reconciliation

Finding the Antonym of RETALIATION

The question asks us to select the most appropriate antonym for the word "RETALIATION". An antonym is a word that means the opposite of another word.

Let's first understand the meaning of "RETALIATION".

RETALIATION: This word means to return an attack or injury in kind. It is an act of revenge or reprisal, usually in response to being attacked or harmed.

Now, let's examine the given options and their meanings:

  1. retrospection: This refers to the action of looking back on or reviewing past events or situations. It is related to memory and reflection, not conflict or its resolution.
  2. retribution: This means punishment inflicted in return for an injury or wrong. This is very similar in meaning to retaliation and is often considered a synonym, not an antonym.
  3. regression: This means a return to a former or less developed state. It is about moving backward, not about conflict resolution.
  4. reconciliation: This refers to the restoration of friendly relations. It involves resolving conflict and ending hostility, bringing parties back together peacefully.

We are looking for a word that represents the opposite of returning an attack or seeking revenge. An action that ends conflict and restores peace is the opposite of retaliation.

Comparing the options, "reconciliation" directly contrasts with the idea of retaliation. While retaliation escalates conflict or maintains hostility, reconciliation aims to resolve it and rebuild positive relationships.

Therefore, the most appropriate antonym of RETALIATION is reconciliation.

Word Meaning Relationship to RETALIATION
RETALIATION Returning an attack or injury; revenge. The core word.
retrospection Looking back on past events. Unrelated.
retribution Punishment in return for wrong. Similar (synonym/related concept).
regression Return to a former state. Unrelated.
reconciliation Restoring friendly relations. Opposite (antonym).

Understanding Antonyms and Synonyms of Retaliation

To further clarify, let's consider synonyms and antonyms for retaliation:

  • Synonyms: revenge, reprisal, vengeance, counterattack, retribution.
  • Antonyms: forgiveness, pardon, reconciliation, peace, amity, harmony.

The word "reconciliation" clearly falls into the category of antonyms for retaliation as it signifies the process of overcoming hostility and re-establishing peace and friendship.

Conclusion on Antonym of Retaliation

Based on the meanings of the words, reconciliation is the action of ending conflict and restoring peace, which is the direct opposite of retaliation, an act of responding to conflict with further hostility.

Revision Table: Antonym of Retaliation

Concept RETALIATION RECONCILIATION
Nature Response with harm/hostility Response with peace/resolution
Outcome Escalates or maintains conflict Ends conflict, restores harmony
Relationship The word in question Its antonym

Additional Information: Understanding Related Terms

  • Context is Key: The best antonym can sometimes depend on the specific context in which "retaliation" is used, but "reconciliation" is a strong general antonym.
  • Degrees of Opposition: Words like "forgiveness" or "pardon" are also antonyms of retaliation, focusing more on letting go of the desire for revenge, whereas "reconciliation" focuses on rebuilding relationships.
  • Word Families: Understanding prefixes and suffixes can sometimes help, but for these specific words (retrospection, retribution, regression, reconciliation), their roots are quite distinct.
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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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