Select the most appropriate word for the given group of words. Extreme physical or mental sufferings
Agony
Understanding Extreme Suffering Vocabulary
The question asks us to select the most appropriate single word for the phrase "Extreme physical or mental sufferings". This is a common type of vocabulary question where you need to find a word that precisely defines a given description.
Let's examine the meaning of the given phrase, "Extreme physical or mental sufferings". This refers to pain, distress, or anguish that is very severe, affecting either the body or the mind.
Analyzing the Vocabulary Options
Now, let's look at the provided options and understand their meanings:
- Agony: This word means extreme physical or mental suffering.
- Autonomy: This refers to the right or condition of self-government or independence.
- Aviary: This is a large enclosure for keeping birds.
- Autocracy: This is a system of government by one person with absolute power.
Identifying the Correct Word for Suffering
Comparing the definition of "Extreme physical or mental sufferings" with the meanings of the options, we can see which word fits best.
- Agony directly matches the definition of extreme physical or mental suffering.
- Autonomy is related to self-rule, not suffering.
- Aviary is a place for birds, completely unrelated to suffering.
- Autocracy is a form of government, unrelated to suffering.
Therefore, the word that most appropriately represents "Extreme physical or mental sufferings" is agony.
Why Agony is the Right Choice
The term 'agony' is specifically used to describe intense pain, whether it originates from a physical injury or illness, or from severe emotional or psychological distress. It conveys a level of suffering that is overwhelming and difficult to bear. The other options have entirely different meanings related to governance, independence, or animal enclosures.
| Phrase | Meaning | Matching Option |
|---|---|---|
| Extreme physical or mental sufferings | Very severe pain, distress, or anguish of body or mind. | Agony |
Revision Table: Word Meanings
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Agony | Extreme physical or mental suffering. |
| Autonomy | The right or condition of self-government. |
| Aviary | A large enclosure for keeping birds. |
| Autocracy | A system of government by one person with absolute power. |
Additional Information: Related Vocabulary
Understanding words related to suffering and pain can be helpful for vocabulary building. Here are a few related terms:
- Anguish: Severe mental or physical pain or suffering. (Similar to agony)
- Distress: Extreme anxiety, sorrow, or pain.
- Torment: Severe physical or mental suffering. (Can also be used as a verb, to cause suffering)
- Pain: Physical suffering or discomfort caused by illness or injury.
- Suffering: The state of undergoing pain, hardship, or distress. (A general term)
While these words are related, 'agony' often implies the most intense or extreme form of suffering.
Important Questions from One Word Substitution
For the expression which has been underlined in each of the following sentences, choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which most nearly expresses its meaning.
The institution decided to give Mrs. Roy’s job to her son not because she was a social worker, but because she haddied in harness.
For the expression which has been underlined in each of the following sentences, choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which most nearly expresses its meaning.
Your ambition should be inconsonance withyour capabilities.
For the expression which has been underlined in each of the following sentences, choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which most nearly expresses its meaning.
I could not go up in lifefor want ofproper guidance.
For the expression which has been underlined in each of the following sentences, choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which most nearly expresses its meaning.
Though he was arrogant, I could notdispense withhis services.
For the expression which has been underlined in each of the following sentences, choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which most nearly expresses its meaning.
In spite of his hard work, he wasmade a scapegoatfor the failure of the project
