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Question

Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.

Competent

The correct answer is

capable

Understanding the Word Competent

The question asks for the most appropriate synonym for the word "Competent". Let's first understand what "Competent" means.

Competent means having the necessary ability, knowledge, or skill to do something successfully. It implies being capable and effective in a particular task or area.

Analyzing the Options for Competent

We need to examine each option to find the one that is closest in meaning to "Competent".

  1. capable: This word means having the ability or quality necessary to do something. If someone is capable, they can perform a task effectively. This aligns closely with the meaning of "Competent".
  2. unskilled: This is the opposite of having skill. An unskilled person lacks the necessary ability or training to do something properly. This is an antonym, not a synonym, for "Competent".
  3. inefficient: This means not achieving maximum productivity or performance with minimum wasted effort or expense. An inefficient person does a job poorly or slowly, wasting resources. This is an antonym for "Competent".
  4. slow: This describes moving or operating at a low speed. While a slow person might sometimes be inefficient or less competent in time-sensitive tasks, being slow is not the core meaning of being incompetent, nor is it a synonym for being competent. Many competent people are not necessarily fast, and many fast people are not necessarily competent.

Identifying the Correct Synonym for Competent

Based on the analysis, the word that is most similar in meaning to "Competent" is "capable". Both words describe someone who has the ability to perform a task well.

Word Meaning Relation to Competent
Competent Having the necessary ability, skill, or knowledge to do something successfully. The word we are finding a synonym for.
capable Having the ability or quality necessary to do or achieve something. A direct synonym; describes having the necessary ability.
unskilled Lacking skill or expertise. An antonym; describes lacking ability.
inefficient Not achieving maximum productivity; wasteful of time or resources. An antonym; describes poor performance despite potential ability.
slow Moving or operating at a low speed. Not directly related to competence; refers to speed, not ability or skill.

Conclusion: Competent Synonym

The most appropriate synonym for "Competent" among the given options is "capable". Both words signify having the requisite ability to perform a task effectively.

Revision Table: Understanding Vocabulary

Word Meaning Example Sentence
Competent Able to do something well; skilled. She is a competent manager who handles her team effectively.
Capable Having the ability to do something. He seems capable of handling this difficult task.
Unskilled Lacking necessary skills. Finding work can be hard for unskilled labourers.
Inefficient Not working in the best possible way; wasting time or energy. His inefficient work habits led to many delays.
Slow Not fast; taking a long time. The train was very slow due to track repairs.

Additional Information: Expanding Vocabulary

Building a strong vocabulary is crucial for language proficiency and excelling in exams. Understanding synonyms helps you express ideas in different ways and comprehend texts better.

  • Synonyms are words that have similar meanings.
  • Antonyms are words that have opposite meanings.
  • Context is key when choosing synonyms; sometimes words are only synonyms in specific situations.

For "Competent", other possible synonyms in different contexts might include: proficient, skilled, able, accomplished, experienced, qualified.

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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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