Question

Choose the synonym of the given word-
PENURY
a) Destitution
b) Digestive
c) Pension
d) Vigour

Answer 1

Hint: A synonym refers to a word that is exactly or nearly the same in meaning to another word. Example- Happy is the synonym of cheerful.

Complete answer:
‘Penury’ refers to extreme poverty or impoverishment leading to homelessness and begging. The word ‘penury’ has been derived from the Latin word- Penuria, which means scarcity.
We know the meaning and the origin of the word ‘penury’. Now, let’s look at its usage:
Example- The young girl has faced several years of penury. Here, we can understand that the young girl has faced extreme poverty and impoverishment.
Let’s examine the given options-

Destitution- It refers to the state of being poor and deprived. It is similar in meaning to penury. Hence, it is the correct option.

Digestive- It refers to something that promotes the digestion of food. It is different in meaning to penury. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Pension- It refers to the allowance or support given to the people above the retirement age by the state. It is different in meaning to penury. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Vigour- It refers to physical strength and robustness. It is different in meaning to penury. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
The correct answer is Option ‘a’.

Note: Use the elimination method to remove the options that are least likely to be the synonym of penury. First, comprehend the meaning of the word ‘penury’ and its options. Thereafter, choose the most suitable answer that is similar in meaning to penury.