Select the most appropriate synonym to replace the italicized word. We also must do something about our mental and physical lethargy.
hebetude
Finding the Most Appropriate Synonym for Lethargy
The question asks us to find the most appropriate synonym to replace the word "lethargy" in the sentence: "We also must do something about our mental and physical lethargy."
Let's first understand the meaning of the word "lethargy".
Understanding the Word Lethargy
Lethargy is defined as a state of sluggishness, inactivity, and lack of energy or enthusiasm. It can manifest as feeling drowsy, dull, or uninterested.
Now let's examine the given options to see which one has a meaning closest to "lethargy".
Analysing the Synonym Options
- eagerness: This means having or showing eagerness or interest. This is the opposite of lethargy.
- enthusiasm: This refers to intense and eager enjoyment, interest, or approval. Like eagerness, this is contrary to the state of lethargy.
- hebetude: This term describes the state of being dull or lethargic; mental dullness. Its meaning aligns closely with lethargy.
- vigour: This means physical strength and good health; energy and vitality. This is also the opposite of lethargy.
Why Hebetude is the Correct Synonym
Comparing the meanings, we see that "hebetude" is the option that most accurately describes a state of dullness, sluggishness, or lack of mental and physical energy, which is the definition of "lethargy". The sentence talks about "mental and physical lethargy", and "hebetude" encompasses this state of dullness or sluggishness.
Comparing Lethargy with Other Options
The other options, "eagerness", "enthusiasm", and "vigour", represent states of high energy, interest, and vitality. These are essentially antonyms (words with opposite meanings) of lethargy, not synonyms.
Therefore, "hebetude" is the most appropriate word to replace "lethargy" while maintaining a similar meaning in the sentence.
Revision Table: Key Vocabulary Synonyms
| Word | Meaning | Relationship to Lethargy |
|---|---|---|
| Lethargy | State of sluggishness, inactivity, lack of energy/enthusiasm | Base word |
| Eagerness | Keen interest or enthusiasm | Antonym |
| Enthusiasm | Intense enjoyment, interest, or approval | Antonym |
| Hebetude | State of being dull or lethargic; mental dullness | Synonym |
| Vigour | Physical strength, energy, vitality | Antonym |
Additional Information: Expanding Your Vocabulary for Synonyms
Understanding synonyms and antonyms is crucial for building strong vocabulary. Synonyms are words that have similar meanings, while antonyms have opposite meanings. When looking for a synonym, consider the context in which the word is used, as synonyms can have slight variations in meaning or connotation.
For example, while "sluggishness" is a synonym for "lethargy", "hebetude" often implies a mental dullness alongside physical sluggishness, which fits well with the "mental and physical lethargy" mentioned in the sentence.
Practicing with different words and their related terms helps in choosing the most precise language when writing or speaking. Regular reading and using a thesaurus can aid in this process, but always verify the exact meaning and usage of a new word.
Important Questions from Miscellaneous
A stone is thrown horizontally from the top of a 20 m high building with a speed of 12 m/s. It hits the ground at a distance R from the building. Taking g = 10 m/s2 and neglecting air resistance will give :
A mass is attached to a spring that hangs vertically. The extension produced in the spring is 6 cm on Earth. The acceleration due to gravity on the surface of the Moon is one-sixth of its value on the surface of the Earth. The extension of the spring on the Moon would be:
Directions: Each 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 your Answer Sheet accordingly.
The deluge affected the population.The major source of vitamins and minerals for vegetarians is
Which of the following statements about the Deccan Riots Commission is/are correct?
1. The Commission did not hold enquiries in the districts which were not affected.
2. The Commission did record the statements of ryots, sahukars and eye-witnesses.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
