Question

Choose the word opposite in meaning to the given word.
BOOST
a. hinder
b. compel
c. discourage
d. rebuke

Answer 1

Hint: The word ‘boost’ refers to ‘help or encourage (something) to increase or improve’.

Complete step by step solution: The word ‘boost’ can be used in a sentence in the following way.
For example, in the sentence ‘A lot of measures will help to boost the sales’, the word ‘boost’ refers to the sales increasing or improving.
Now, we know the meaning and usage of the word ‘boost’. Let’s look at the given options:
hinder - The word ‘hinder’ refers to ‘make it difficult for (someone) to do something or for (something) to happen’. This has a very different meaning to the given word. So, this is an incorrect option.
compel - The word ‘compel’ means ‘force or oblige (someone) to do something’. This is not related to the word ‘boost’ at all. So, this is also an incorrect option.

discourage - The word ‘discourage’ means ‘cause (someone) to lose confidence or enthusiasm’. This has the exact opposite meaning to the given word, which means that it is an antonym of the word ‘discourage’. So, this is the correct option.

rebuke - This word refers to ‘express sharp disapproval or criticism of (someone) because of their behaviour or actions’. This word has a different meaning to the given word. So, this is an incorrect option.

Note: To identify the antonym of the given word, you need to find the word with the exact opposite meaning to the word ‘boost’, out of the given options.