Question

Choose the option which best expresses the meaning of the given word-
TARNISH

a) Ornate
b) Blemish
c) Destroy
d) Scrub

Answer 1

Hint: Tarnish refers to something that is deteriorated or corroded as a result of exposure to moisture.

Complete answer:

The word ‘tarnish’ has been derived from the French word- Terne, which means dull or dark.
We know the meaning and the origin of the word ‘tarnish’. Now, let’s look at its usage:
Example-All the iron gym rods tarnish very easily. Here, we can understand that iron gym rods corrode or deteriorate very easily.
Let’s examine the given options-
a) Ornate- It means to embellish or over-elaborate something. It is different in meaning to tarnish. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Example- The bride wore an ornate necklace.
b) Blemish- It refers to a defect or discoloration that spoils the appearance of something. It is similar in meaning to tarnish. Hence, it is the correct option.
Example- I couldn’t recognize the blemish on her face.
c) Destroy- It means to wreck or demolish something. It is different in meaning to tarnish. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Example- The villagers destroyed the hut.
d) Scrub- It means to rub or clean something. It is different in meaning to tarnish. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Example- The maid scrubbed the floor.
The correct answer is Option ‘b’.

Note: Both tarnish and blemish refer to something that is less valuable because of its damaged appearance.