Understanding the Word "Ravaged"

The question asks us to find the most appropriate synonym for the word "ravaged" as used in the sentence: "Last week's rain ravaged the whole city."

To find the correct synonym, we first need to understand the meaning of "ravaged" in this context. When rain or a storm "ravages" a city, it typically means it causes severe damage and destruction.

Let's look at the meaning of the word "ravaged". "Ravaged" is the past participle of the verb "ravage". It means to cause severe and extensive damage to something. Think about the impact of a powerful natural event like heavy rain on a city - it can flood streets, damage buildings, and disrupt infrastructure.

Analysing the Options for Synonym of Ravaged

Now, let's examine each option provided:

• reaffirmed: This word means to state again strongly; confirm. For example, "The committee reaffirmed its commitment to the project." This is not related to damage or destruction.
• rescinded: This word means to revoke, cancel, or repeal a law, order, or agreement. For example, "The company rescinded its offer of employment." This is not related to damage or destruction.
• ruined: This word means to reduce to a state of decay, collapse, or disintegration; spoil or destroy (something) completely. For example, "The fire ruined the old building." This meaning aligns closely with causing severe damage and destruction, which is what "ravaged" implies in the sentence.
• retracted: This word means to draw back or withdraw (something said or offered). For example, "She retracted her statement." This is not related to damage or destruction.

Identifying the Most Appropriate Synonym

Comparing the meaning of "ravaged" (causing severe damage or destruction) with the meanings of the options, we can see that "ruined" is the word that best fits the context. Heavy rain can cause significant damage, essentially "ruining" parts of or the whole city's infrastructure or buildings.

Therefore, "ruined" is the most appropriate synonym for "ravaged" in the given sentence.

Revision Table: Understanding Vocabulary

Additional Information: Contextual Vocabulary

Understanding the meaning of a word often depends on its context in the sentence. While a word might have multiple meanings, the surrounding words help us determine which meaning is relevant. In this sentence, "rain" causing impact on "the whole city" suggests a negative, destructive effect, which points towards the meaning of severe damage.

Synonyms are words that have similar meanings. Learning synonyms helps improve vocabulary and allows for more varied and precise language use. When looking for a synonym, always consider the specific way the word is used in the sentence.