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Question

The following question consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four words. Select the word that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word and mark your response accordingly.

In those days many monarchs enjoyed vastecclesiasticalpowers.

This question was previously asked in
CDS I 2017 General Knowledge Previous Year Paper (05-Feb-2017)
The correct answer is

Temporal

The question asks us to identify the word that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word "ecclesiastical" within the given sentence. The sentence states: "In those days many monarchs enjoyed vast ecclesiastical powers."

Understanding the Meaning of Ecclesiastical

The word "ecclesiastical" comes from the Greek word for church. It is used to describe things relating to the Christian Church or its clergy. It pertains to matters that are spiritual, religious, or connected with the administration or activities of the church.

In the context of the sentence, "ecclesiastical powers" refer to the authority or influence held by monarchs in matters concerning the church or religion.

Analyzing the Options for Opposite Meaning

We are looking for a word whose meaning is contrary to "ecclesiastical," i.e., something that is not religious, spiritual, or church-related. Let's examine the given options:

  • Permanent: This word means lasting or intended to last or remain unchanged indefinitely. Its opposite would be temporary or transient. This word has no direct relation to the religious or secular nature described by "ecclesiastical".
  • Temporal: This word has several meanings, but one of the most relevant meanings contrasts with spiritual or ecclesiastical matters. "Temporal" can refer to worldly affairs, secular rather than sacred matters, or things related to time. When contrasted with "ecclesiastical" (spiritual/church), "temporal" (worldly/secular) serves as an antonym.
  • Contemporary: This means belonging to or occurring in the present time. Its opposite would be historical or past. This word is related to time, not the distinction between religious and worldly matters.
  • Constitutional: This relates to or is in accordance with an established constitution or body of laws. It pertains to the fundamental principles by which a state or organization is governed. This word describes a type of legal or governmental power, not the opposite of religious power.

Based on the analysis, "temporal" is the word that is most directly opposite in meaning to "ecclesiastical" when referring to powers or authority, as it pertains to the secular or worldly realm in contrast to the spiritual or church realm.

Therefore, the word opposite in meaning to "ecclesiastical" is "Temporal".

Revision Table: Exploring Word Opposites

Word Meaning related to Context Opposite (Antonym)
Ecclesiastical Relating to the church, spiritual, religious. Temporal
Permanent Lasting indefinitely. Temporary / Transient
Contemporary Belonging to the present time. Historical / Past
Constitutional In accordance with a constitution; legal. Unconstitutional / Illegal

Additional Information on Antonyms and Vocabulary

Antonyms are words that have opposite meanings. Understanding antonyms helps improve vocabulary and comprehension. Many words, like "temporal," can have multiple meanings. It's important to consider the context in which a word is used to determine its specific meaning and find the most appropriate opposite.

In history, the distinction between "ecclesiastical power" and "temporal power" was significant, referring respectively to the authority of the church and the authority of secular rulers (like monarchs).

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