Question

Choose the one which best expresses the meaning of ANGST.
A. Anxiety
B. Pride
C. Modesty
D. Simplicity

Answer 1

Hint: Words with opposing meanings are known as antonyms. Words that have the same or similar meanings are called synonyms. Homonyms are words that have the same spelling and pronunciation but different meanings.

Complete answer:
Angst is a term that means apprehension or anxiety (anguish is its Latinate equivalent, and the words anxious and anxiety are of similar origin). A feeling of fear, anticipation, or uncertainty, according to the dictionary concept of angst. For example – “The inexperienced cyclist is full of angst knowing that he will lose tomorrow “. In this sentence the fear and anxiety of the subject is apparent.

A) Anxiety is a fear, nervousness, or uneasiness over something that has an unknown outcome. Therefore, option (A) can best describe the word ‘angst’.
B) The word pride can have both a positive and negative connotation; it can refer to the quality or state of being proud, as well as excessive self-esteem and conceit. It may be self-respect or contempt that is rational or justifiable. But this word in no way describes the word ‘angst’. Therefore, option (B) is incorrect.
C) Simplicity refers to the condition or consistency of being straightforward. In comparison to something complex, something simple to understand or describe seems simple. In other instances, the term may imply a lack of nuance or sophistication in comparison to the task at hand. This word also does not match the meaning of the word ‘angst’.
D) Modesty is the attribute or state of being humble in one's assessment of one's own skill. For example- “The modesty of the king humbled everyone”. Option (D) is not a synonym of the word ‘angst’.


Since, the word ‘Anxiety’ best expresses the meaning of the word ‘angst’. Therefore, the correct answer is option (A).

Note: Replacing a word with an alternative, or even a more precise one, will help you communicate your ideas more effectively. Synonyms will also help you make your writing more vivid and create an interesting picture in the reader's mind.