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Question

Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.

Wax

This question was previously asked in
SSC CGL 2023 (Tier-II) Paper 1 Previous Year Paper (26-Oct-2023) (Shift-1)
The correct answer is

Wane

Finding the Most Appropriate Antonym of Wax

The question asks for the most appropriate antonym of the word "Wax". An antonym is a word that means the opposite of another word. To find the correct antonym for "Wax", we need to understand its meaning and the meanings of the given options.

Meaning of "Wax"

The word "Wax" can have several meanings, but in the context of changing size, strength, or intensity, it typically means to increase, grow, or become stronger. A common example is the moon, which is said to "wax" as it appears to grow larger in the sky.

Analyzing the Options

Let's examine the meaning of each option:

  • Polish: To make something smooth and shiny by rubbing it. This is unrelated to increasing or decreasing.
  • Cane: A stick used for support when walking, or a type of plant. This is unrelated to increasing or decreasing.
  • Wall: A structure forming the side of a room or building, or an obstacle. This is unrelated to increasing or decreasing.
  • Wane: To decrease in vigor, power, or extent; to become weaker; to diminish. Like the moon, which is said to "wane" as it appears to get smaller.

Identifying the Antonym

Comparing the meaning of "Wax" (to increase, grow) with the options, we can see that "Wane" (to decrease, diminish) is the direct opposite in the sense of changing size or intensity.

Therefore, the most appropriate antonym of "Wax" is "Wane".

Comparison: Wax vs. Wane
Word Common Meaning (in this context) Example
Wax To increase in size, strength, or intensity The moon waxes towards a full moon.
Wane To decrease in size, strength, or intensity The moon wanes towards a new moon.

Conclusion on the Antonym of Wax

Based on the meanings, "Wane" is the clear antonym for "Wax" when referring to a process of increase versus decrease.

Understanding antonyms like Wax and Wane is important for vocabulary building and excelling in English language sections of exams.

Revision Table: Antonyms and Synonyms

Vocabulary Revision
Word Meaning Antonym Synonym (Context Dependent)
Wax Increase, grow Wane Grow, enlarge, escalate
Wane Decrease, diminish Wax Diminish, shrink, decline
Polish Make shiny; improve Dull; tarnish Shine, buff; refine, improve

Additional Information: Usage of Wax and Wane

While "Wax" and "Wane" are most famously used to describe the phases of the moon, they can also be used metaphorically to describe anything that increases or decreases over time.

  • A person's enthusiasm might wax and wane.
  • The popularity of a trend can wax and wane.
  • Support for a policy might wax and wane.

Recognizing these nuances in usage helps in understanding vocabulary in different contexts.

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