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Question

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

A book or set of books giving information about all areas of knowledge

This question was previously asked in
SSC CGL 2023 (Tier-II) Paper 1 Previous Year Paper (26-Oct-2023) (Shift-1)
The correct answer is

Encyclopedia

Understanding the Definition of an Encyclopedia

The question asks for a single word that describes "A book or set of books giving information about all areas of knowledge". Let's examine the options provided and see which one best fits this definition.

Analyzing the Options

We need to find a word that represents a comprehensive collection of information spanning various subjects.

  • Encyclopedia: An encyclopedia is traditionally defined as a book or set of books containing articles on various topics, usually arranged alphabetically, covering all branches of knowledge or a particular branch. This definition perfectly matches the phrase given in the question, as it aims to provide information across a wide range of subjects or "all areas of knowledge".
  • Dictionary: A dictionary is a book or electronic resource that lists the words of a language (typically in alphabetical order) and gives their meaning, or gives the equivalent words in a different language. While a valuable reference tool, a dictionary focuses on words and their meanings, not comprehensive information about "all areas of knowledge".
  • Volume: A volume refers to a single book that forms part of a work published in several books. It is a physical unit of a larger collection, but the term itself doesn't specify the content as covering "all areas of knowledge". A volume could be part of an encyclopedia, but "volume" itself is not the substitute for the *entire* set of books covering *all areas of knowledge*.
  • Anthology: An anthology is a published collection of poems or other pieces of writing selected by a compiler. This term is typically used for collections of literary works (like poems, short stories, essays) and does not describe a reference work containing information across "all areas of knowledge".

Comparing the definitions, the term that specifically denotes a book or set of books designed to provide information on a wide range of subjects, essentially covering "all areas of knowledge", is an encyclopedia.

Comparison of Options
Term Definition Matches "all areas of knowledge"?
Encyclopedia Book/set of books with articles on various topics covering branches of knowledge. Yes
Dictionary Book listing words and their meanings. No (focuses on words/language)
Volume Single book part of a larger work. No (physical unit, not content description)
Anthology Collection of literary pieces. No (focuses on literature)

Therefore, "Encyclopedia" is the correct one-word substitute for "A book or set of books giving information about all areas of knowledge".

Revision Table: One-Word Substitutes

Phrase One-Word Substitute Explanation
A book or set of books giving information about all areas of knowledge Encyclopedia A comprehensive reference work covering diverse subjects.
A book listing words alphabetically with meanings Dictionary Focuses on language, not general knowledge areas.
A collection of literary works (poems, stories, etc.) Anthology Specific to literature.
A single book that is part of a larger series or work Volume A physical unit, not a description of comprehensive content.

Additional Information on Reference Books

Reference books are essential tools for gaining information and understanding. Here are some common types beyond encyclopedias:

  • Thesaurus: Provides synonyms and antonyms for words.
  • Atlas: A collection of maps.
  • Almanac: A book published annually containing calendars, astronomical data, meteorological information, and other miscellaneous facts.
  • Gazetteer: A geographical index or dictionary, typically accompanying a map or atlas.

Understanding the specific purpose of each type of reference book helps in choosing the right resource for information retrieval.

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Important Questions from One Word Substitution

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    Study of cultures.

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

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

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