Directions: Carefully read the given passage and answer the question that follow. You are required to select your answer solely based on the contents of the passage and the opinion of the author only.
People by and large are concerned with and pursue self-interest. They are unlikely to be motivated to use renewable resources in a prudent and sustainable fashion. They are unlikely to be motivated under the following conditions: if their resource catchments are vast, so that degradation of any particular portion affects them very little; or if they have open before them possibilities of substitution as any one resource element is depleted; or if their control over the resource base is tenuous, so that others may, at any time, deplete a resource they value, even if they use it in a restrained fashion. Indeed, exhaustive use is highly likely when any one of these three conditions obtains. It is only when people perceive their resource catchments as limited, possibilities of substitution of exhausted resource elements as not readily feasible, and their own control over the resource base as secure, will they be motivated to use the resources in a prudent fashion. People, rooted in a locality, and retaining control over their resource base are most likely to fulfil all three prerequisites for sustainable resource use; and therefore to behave in ways conducive to the conservation of biodiversity within their localities.
Which among the following is closest in meaning with the word 'deplete'?
exhaust
Understanding the Meaning of 'Deplete' from the Passage
The question asks us to find the word closest in meaning to 'deplete' based on the provided passage. The passage discusses people's relationship with renewable resources and the conditions under which they are unlikely or likely to use them sustainably. The word 'deplete' appears in the context of using these resources.
Let's look at the sentences where 'deplete' is used:
- "...others may, at any time, deplete a resource they value, even if they use it in a restrained fashion."
- "...possibilities of substitution as any one resource element is depleted;"
The passage also uses the phrase "exhaustive use" as a likely outcome under certain conditions, implying that 'deplete' relates to using resources up completely or to a significant extent. It also refers to "exhausted resource elements" which are clearly linked to "depleted" elements.
Considering the context of resources being used up or becoming less available, let's examine the given options:
- exhaust: This means to use up entirely or consume completely. This fits the context of resources being used from their source. The passage also uses "exhaustive use" and "exhausted resource elements" interchangeably with depletion.
- complete: This means to finish something or make it whole. It doesn't fit the idea of using up a resource.
- replete: This means filled or well-supplied. This is actually the opposite of depleting a resource.
- desperate: This describes a feeling or state of hopelessness. It has no relation to the usage of resources.
Based on the passage's context, where 'depleted' resources are referred to as 'exhausted resource elements' and 'exhaustive use' is presented as a consequence of certain behaviors towards resources, the word 'exhaust' is the closest in meaning to 'deplete'.
Step-by-Step Analysis
- Identify the word 'deplete' in the passage.
- Read the sentences surrounding 'deplete' to understand its context related to resources.
- Note related terms used in the passage, such as "exhaustive use" and "exhausted resource elements".
- Consider the general meaning of 'deplete' (to use up, reduce significantly).
- Evaluate each option provided: exhaust, complete, replete, desperate.
- Compare the meaning of each option to the context from the passage and the general meaning of 'deplete'.
- Determine which option is the closest synonym in this context.
The analysis shows that 'exhaust' is the most suitable synonym for 'deplete' as used in the passage.
| Word | Meaning | Fit with 'Deplete' in Passage? |
|---|---|---|
| Deplete | To use up or reduce significantly | (Base word) |
| Exhaust | To use up completely | Yes, strong fit and supported by passage use of "exhaustive" and "exhausted". |
| Complete | To finish | No. |
| Replete | Filled, well-supplied | No, opposite meaning. |
| Desperate | Hopeless feeling | No relation. |
Revision Table: Key Vocabulary
| Term | Definition in Context |
|---|---|
| Deplete | To use up or reduce a resource. |
| Exhaust | To use something up completely. |
| Sustainable | Using a resource in a way that it is not depleted or permanently damaged for future generations. |
| Resource Catchments | The area or source from which resources are drawn. |
| Tenuous Control | Weak or uncertain control over something (like resources). |
Additional Information: Resource Management and Vocabulary
Understanding key vocabulary is crucial for comprehending passages, especially those related to environmental or economic topics. The passage discusses concepts related to resource management and the conditions under which people are motivated to use resources prudently. Key factors influencing sustainable resource use include the perceived size of the resource base, the availability of substitutes, and the security of control over the resource base. When people feel their resource base is limited, substitution is difficult, and their control is secure, they are more likely to conserve resources and biodiversity.
The words 'deplete' and 'exhaust' are often used interchangeably in the context of using up natural resources, energy, or supplies. For example, "depleting fossil fuels" or "exhausting the supply of water." Synonyms for deplete can include drain, lessen, empty, or consume. Antonyms include replenish, fill, or restore.
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