Question

Against the given word, there are some alternatives, one of which is either similar in meaning (synonym) or opposite in meaning (antonym) to the word. Find out which of the given alternatives is either a synonym or an antonym of the word.
SALUBRIOUS
a. Essential
b. Tarnished
c. Benign
d. Unhealthy
e. Resourceful

Answer 1

Hint: An antonym or an opposite refers to a word that is contrasting in meaning to another word, whereas a synonym refers to a word that is similar in meaning to another word. Example- Happy is an antonym of sad, while unhappy is a synonym of sad.

Complete answer:
‘Salubrious’ refers to something that is healthy or beneficial. The word ‘salubrious’ has been derived from the Latin word- Salus, which means health.
We know the meaning and the origin of the word ‘salubrious’. Now, let’s look at its usage:
Example- We visited the Himalayan spring waters that are known to be salubrious and sacred. Here, we can understand that X and Y visited the Himalayan spring waters that are known to be healthy or beneficial.
Let’s examine the given options-
Option a- ‘Essential’ refers to something that is considered to be crucial or important for something. Example- It is essential to write your name on the top. ‘Essential’ is different in meaning to salubrious. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option b- ‘Tarnished’ refers to something that has lost its shine due to rust or oxidation. Example- My silver earrings have tarnished. ‘Tarnished’ is different in meaning to salubrious. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option c- ‘Benign’ refers to the quality of being kind and friendly. Example- The CEO of this company is known for his benign behaviour. ‘Benign’ is different in meaning to salubrious. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option d- ‘Unhealthy’ refers to something that is injurious or destructive to our health. Example- She was criticised for her unhealthy diet. ‘Unhealthy’ is opposite in meaning to salubrious. Hence, it is the correct option.
Option e- ‘Resourceful’ refers to a person who is imaginative and creative in thinking. Example- She saved the day with her resourceful mind. ‘Resourceful’ is different in meaning to salubrious. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
The correct answer is Option ‘d’.

Note: An antonym usually indicates a negative sense, whereas a synonym is used in a positive context. Choose the word from the options that match the context of the given word, either in positive or in negative manner.