Question

Choose the appropriate synonym for the given word.
Penchant
(a)Disability
(b)Like
(c)Eagerness
(d)Dislike

Answer 1

Hint: We need to find the synonym of the word penchant. Read the question and try to understand the context, it will give you an idea about the meaning of the given word. Now go through the options and recall their meaning. The one closest to the meaning of penchant is the desired answer.

Complete answer: A synonym refers to a word that is closest in meaning to a given word. For example- Boring is a synonym for monotonous.
‘Penchant’ refers to the preference or fondness of a person to do something. The word ‘penchant’ has been derived from the French word- Penchant, which means leaning or inclining. We know the meaning and the origin of the word ‘penchant’. Now, let’s look at its usage: For example- My sister has a penchant for collecting seashells. Here, we can conclude that X’s sister has a liking or fondness for collecting seashells.
Let’s examine the given options-
Option a- ‘Disability’ refers to a disorder or condition that affects a person’s motor and physical abilities. For example- Our school donates books and clothes for children with disabilities. ‘Disability’ is different in meaning to the given context. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option b- ‘Like’ refers to admiring or having a soft spot for something or someone. For example- My cousins and I like to swim in the pool. ‘Like’ is similar in meaning to the given context. Hence, it is the correct option.
Option c- ‘Eagerness’ refers to the keenness or the enthusiasm of a person to do something. For example- The young boy showed eagerness to participate in the race. ‘Eagerness’ is different in meaning to the given context. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option d- ‘Dislike’ refers to hating or detesting someone or something. For example- My teacher dislikes disobedient children. ‘Dislike’ is opposite in meaning to the given context. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
The correct answer is Option ‘b’.

Note: Some other synonyms for ‘penchant’ are; fondness, preference, relish, etc while some antonyms for ‘penchant’ are; dislike, antipathy, hate, etc.