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.
PROWESS
a- Bravery
b- Eagerness
c- Keenness
d- Understanding

Answer 1

Hint: A synonym refers to a word that is similar in meaning as another word, whereas an antonym refers to a word that is opposite in meaning to another word. ‘Prowess’ refers to the courage and bravery of a warrior in a battle or war.

Complete answer:
The word ‘prowess’ has been derived from the Old French word- Prou, which means valiant.
We know the meaning and the origin of the word ‘prowess’. Now, let’s look at its usage-
For example- The soldier was awarded for his military prowess. Here, we can conclude that a soldier, X, was awarded for his courage or bravery in military battles.
Let’s decipher the meaning of the given options-
Option a- ‘Bravery’ refers to the quality of being courageous or bold. For example- The young boy was awarded for his bravery. ‘Bravery’ is similar in meaning to the given context. Hence, it is the correct option.
Option b- ‘Eagerness’ refers to the passion or zeal to do something. For example- The children showed eagerness to eat pizza. ‘Eagerness’ is different in meaning to the given context. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option c- ‘Keenness’ refers to the quality of being willing or ready to do something. For example- The worker expressed his keenness to clean the room. ‘Keenness’ is different in meaning to the given context. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option d- ‘Understanding’ refers to the ability to comprehend or grasp something. For example- We’ve been asked to give the exam with little understanding of the subject. ‘Understanding’ is different in meaning to the given context. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
The correct answer is Option ‘a’.

Note:
Some other synonyms for ‘prowess’ are; boldness, grit, heroism, etc while some antonyms for ‘prowess’ are; cowardice, meekness, fear, etc.