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Question

Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute for the given group of words.

Something that is strong and lasts a long time without breaking or becoming weaker.

This question was previously asked in
SSC CGL 2020 (Tier-2) Statistics Previous Year Paper 3 (28-Jan-2022)
The correct answer is

Durable

Finding the Right One-Word Substitute

The question asks us to find a single word that accurately describes something which is strong and remains effective or whole for an extended period without deteriorating or losing its strength.

Analyzing the Given Phrase

The phrase "Something that is strong and lasts a long time without breaking or becoming weaker" describes a quality of resilience and longevity. It's about an object or material that can endure stress, use, or time without failing.

Evaluating the Options

Let's look at the meaning of each option provided:

  • Durable: This word is used to describe something that is able to withstand wear, pressure, or damage; hard-wearing; lasting a long time.
  • Pliable: This means easily bent or flexible; easily influenced.
  • Harsh: This means unpleasantly rough or jarring to the senses, or cruel/severe.
  • Secure: This means fixed or fastened so as not to be lost, unstable, or broken; feeling safe, protected, or confident.

Determining the Best Fit

Comparing the options with the description provided:

  • "Pliable" describes flexibility, not strength and longevity.
  • "Harsh" describes a quality of roughness or severity, not strength or how long something lasts.
  • "Secure" describes stability or safety, which is related to being strong enough not to break immediately, but it doesn't specifically capture the idea of *lasting a long time without becoming weaker* under typical use or over time, which is the core of the phrase.
  • "Durable" directly matches the description of being strong and lasting a long time without breaking or becoming weaker. This is the definition of durability.

Therefore, the word "Durable" is the most suitable one-word substitute for the given group of words.

Conclusion

Based on the analysis of the options and the meaning of the phrase, the correct one-word substitute is 'Durable'.

Option Analysis Table
Option Meaning Matches Description?
Durable Strong and lasts a long time without breaking or becoming weaker. Yes
Pliable Easily bent; flexible. No
Harsh Rough or severe. No
Secure Fixed, safe, protected. Partially (Strength implied, but not specifically long-term resistance to weakening)

Revision Table: Vocabulary Building

Key Vocabulary from the Question
Word Part of Speech Meaning Example Sentence
Durable Adjective Able to last a long time without wearing out or weakening. This material is very durable and will withstand harsh weather.
Pliable Adjective Easily bent or shaped; easily influenced. The clay is pliable and easy to mold.
Harsh Adjective Rough, unpleasant, or severe. He spoke in a harsh tone.
Secure Adjective/Verb Protected from danger or threat; fixed firmly. Ensure the gate is secure.
Substitute Noun/Verb A person or thing acting or serving in place of another. Find a substitute for the missing ingredient.

Additional Information: Understanding Word Meanings

Understanding the precise meaning of words is crucial for vocabulary questions, especially those involving one-word substitutes. Often, options might have related meanings, but only one will perfectly capture the nuance of the phrase provided.

  • Synonyms and Antonyms: Learning synonyms (words with similar meanings) and antonyms (words with opposite meanings) can help clarify a word's definition and its usage. For example, an antonym for durable might be fragile or weak.
  • Context is Key: The way a word is used in a sentence or phrase can slightly alter its meaning or emphasize a particular aspect. Always consider the full context.
  • Root Words and Prefixes/Suffixes: Sometimes, knowing the origin or parts of a word (like Latin roots or prefixes/suffixes) can provide clues to its meaning.
  • Practice: Regularly reading and using new vocabulary in sentences is the best way to make words part of your active vocabulary.
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Important Questions from One Word Substitution

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. 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

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