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Question

Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.

Deficiency

This question was previously asked in
SSC CGL 2019 (Tier 2) GS Finance & Economics Previous Year Paper (17-Nov-2020)
The correct answer is

Inadequacy

Understanding the Synonym for Deficiency

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

What does Deficiency mean?

The word "Deficiency" means a lack or shortage of something. It can also refer to a failing or shortcoming.

Analyzing the Options

Let's look at each option provided:

  • Inadequacy: This word means the state or quality of being inadequate; lack of quantity or quality required. This definition is very similar to "Deficiency".
  • Sufficiency: This word means the condition of being adequate or sufficient; having enough of something. This is the opposite of "Deficiency".
  • Efficiency: This word means the state or quality of being efficient; achieving maximum productivity with minimum wasted effort or expense. This word relates to performance or effectiveness, not a lack or shortage.
  • Abundance: This word means a very large quantity of something. This is also the opposite of "Deficiency".

Identifying the Most Appropriate Synonym

Comparing the meanings, "Inadequacy" describes a lack or insufficient amount or quality, which directly aligns with the meaning of "Deficiency". The other options, "Sufficiency" and "Abundance", are antonyms (words with opposite meanings), while "Efficiency" has a completely different meaning related to performance.

Therefore, "Inadequacy" is the most appropriate synonym for "Deficiency".

Word Meanings and Relationships
Word Meaning Relationship to Deficiency
Deficiency A lack or shortage; a failing Base word
Inadequacy Lack of quality or quantity required Synonym
Sufficiency Having enough; being adequate Antonym
Efficiency Achieving productivity with minimum waste Unrelated meaning
Abundance A very large quantity Antonym

Revision Table: Vocabulary Review

Key Vocabulary from the Question
Word Part of Speech Definition Example Sentence
Deficiency Noun A lack or shortage of something; a failing. A vitamin C deficiency can lead to health problems.
Inadequacy Noun The state of being insufficient or not enough. He felt a sense of inadequacy when starting the new job.
Sufficiency Noun The condition of having enough of something. There was sufficient food for everyone at the party.
Efficiency Noun The ability to achieve maximum output with minimum input. Improving the efficiency of the process saved time and money.
Abundance Noun A very large quantity of something. The region has an abundance of natural resources.

Additional Information on Synonyms and Antonyms

Understanding synonyms and antonyms is crucial for building vocabulary and improving comprehension.

  • Synonyms: Words that have the same or very similar meanings. They can often be substituted for one another in a sentence without changing the meaning significantly, although subtle differences in nuance or connotation may exist. Examples: happy/joyful, big/large, quick/fast.
  • Antonyms: Words that have opposite meanings. Examples: hot/cold, up/down, start/finish.
  • Importance: Knowing synonyms helps you express ideas in different ways and avoid repetition. Knowing antonyms helps you understand the range of meaning and clarify concepts by contrasting them.

When looking for the best synonym, consider the context in which the word is used, as some synonyms are more appropriate in certain situations than others.

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