Understanding the Word Defer

The question asks us to find the most appropriate synonym for the word 'Defer'. A synonym is a word or phrase that means exactly or nearly the same as another word or phrase in the same language.

Let's first understand the meaning of the word 'Defer'.

The word Defer means to put off (an action or event) to a later time; postpone. It can also mean to submit humbly to a person or their wishes or authority, but in the context of the options provided, the first meaning is relevant.

Analyzing the Options

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

• Option 1: Hasten
  To hasten means to be quick to do something; to hurry. This is the opposite of putting something off.
• Option 2: Advance
  To advance means to move forward, or to make progress. This does not relate to delaying an action.
• Option 3: Continue
  To continue means to keep doing something; to persist in an action or process. This is also different from putting something off.
• Option 4: Postpone
  To postpone means to cause or arrange for something to take place at a time later than that first scheduled. This meaning is very close to the primary meaning of 'Defer'.

Comparing Meanings

Let's compare the meanings of 'Defer' and the options in a table for clarity:

Identifying the Synonym for Defer

Based on the definitions, the word that means nearly the same as 'Defer' (in the sense of putting something off) is 'Postpone'. Both words are used to indicate that an action or event scheduled for a particular time will now happen at a later time.

Conclusion

The most appropriate synonym for 'Defer' among the given options is 'Postpone'.

Revision Table: Defer Synonyms and Antonyms

Additional Information on Defer and Postpone

While 'Defer' and 'Postpone' are often interchangeable when talking about delaying an event, 'Defer' can sometimes imply a longer or indefinite delay, whereas 'Postpone' usually suggests moving to a specific, later date. However, for the purpose of finding a synonym, 'Postpone' is the closest match among the options.

'Defer' also has the secondary meaning of yielding to someone else's authority or opinion (e.g., "he deferred to her judgment"), but this meaning is not relevant to the provided options.