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Question

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

Belonging to very distant past and no longer in existence

The correct answer is

Ancient

Finding the One-Word Substitute for Distant Past and Non-Existence

The question asks us to find a single word that can replace the phrase "Belonging to very distant past and no longer in existence". This phrase describes something that is extremely old and is not present or living anymore.

Let's examine the given options and see which one best fits this description.

  1. Historic: This term describes something famous or important in history. While historic events or places are from the past, the word itself doesn't necessarily mean they are "no longer in existence". For example, the Great Wall of China is historic, but it still exists.
  2. Aged: This word simply means old or elderly. It can apply to people, objects, or concepts that have existed for a long time. It does not specifically imply a "very distant past" and definitely not "no longer in existence".
  3. Ancient: This word means belonging to the very distant past. It is often used to describe civilizations, periods, or things that existed thousands of years ago. While not everything ancient is entirely "no longer in existence" (like ancient ruins), the term is frequently associated with things like ancient species (extinct) or ancient customs (no longer practised). In the context of a single word substitute, "ancient" strongly covers the "very distant past" aspect and often implies that the thing described is no longer active or present in its original form.
  4. Old-fashioned: This term describes something that is not modern; belonging to or characteristic of a past era, usually not the very distant past. It typically refers to styles, clothes, ideas, or equipment that are no longer in vogue but might still exist. It does not fit the "very distant past" or "no longer in existence" criteria as well as "ancient".

Comparing the options to the phrase "Belonging to very distant past and no longer in existence", the word "Ancient" is the most suitable fit among the given choices. It directly addresses the "very distant past" aspect and, in many contexts, carries the implication of no longer being current or existing in its original state.

Analysis of Options

Option Meaning Fits "very distant past"? Fits "no longer in existence"? Suitability
Historic Famous or important in history Often, but not exclusively No Poor fit
Aged Old; elderly No (just old) No Poor fit
Ancient Belonging to the very distant past Yes Often implied for associated concepts (e.g., ancient species) Best fit among options
Old-fashioned Not modern; from a past era No (not necessarily distant) No (can still exist) Poor fit

Based on this analysis, the word that best serves as a one-word substitute for "Belonging to very distant past and no longer in existence" is "Ancient".

Revision Table: Understanding Vocabulary

Term Core Meaning Example Usage
Ancient Very old; from a distant past era Ancient Rome, ancient forests, ancient customs
Historic Significant or famous in history Historic battle, historic building, historic moment
Aged Having lived or existed for a long time; old Aged cheese, aged person, aged wood
Old-fashioned Out of date; belonging to a style or time that is no longer current Old-fashioned clothes, old-fashioned ideas, old-fashioned technology

Additional Information: Exploring Related Concepts

Understanding words related to time and age is crucial for vocabulary building. Words like 'ancient', 'historic', 'aged', and 'old-fashioned' have overlapping meanings but distinct nuances that make them appropriate in different contexts.

  • Etymology: The word 'ancient' comes from the Latin word 'antiquus', meaning 'old'. 'Historic' relates to 'history'. 'Aged' relates to 'age'. 'Old-fashioned' is a compound word indicating a past style ('fashion').
  • Specificity: 'Ancient' refers specifically to the very distant past. 'Historic' refers to significance in history. 'Aged' refers to the state of being old. 'Old-fashioned' refers to style or custom being outdated.
  • Context is Key: The best word choice always depends on the specific context you are trying to describe. For something from the extremely distant past that is no longer existing or relevant in its original form, 'ancient' is often the most fitting descriptor.
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Important Questions from One Word Substitution

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

    A glass container to keep fish

  2. 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.

  3. Select the word which means the same as the group of words given.

    A place where plants are grown for sale

  4. In the following question, out of the four alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted for the given words/sentence.

    Open refusal to obey orders

  5. Select the word which means the same as the group of words given.

    A doctor who specializes in heart diseases

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