Question

Choose the word or phrase which is nearest in meaning to the given keyword:
Nostalgic
a- Indolent
b- Diseased
c- Wistful
d- Soothing

Answer 1

Hint: A synonym refers to a word that is closest in meaning to another word. Example- Daring is a synonym for courageous. ‘Nostalgic’ refers to being sentimental and emotional about the past.

Complete answer:
The word, ‘nostalgic’ has been derived from the Greek word- Nostos algos, which means to return home in pain.
We know the meaning and the origin of the word, ‘nostalgic’. Now, let’s look at its usage:
Example- My father feels nostalgic about his school days. Here, we can comprehend that X’s father feels sentimental or emotional about the school days.
Let’s decipher the meaning of the given options-
Option a- ‘Indolent’ refers to someone who is lazy or apathetic. Example- My rich boss’ son is an indolent brat. ‘Indolent’ is different in meaning to ‘nostalgic’. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option b- ‘Diseased’ refers to someone who is unhealthy or sick. Example- My mother decided to chop off the diseased branches of the plant. ‘Diseased’ is different in meaning to ‘nostalgic’. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option c- ‘Wistful’ refers to feeling melancholic or emotional. Example- I was feeling quite wistful after visiting my old house. ‘Wistful’ is similar in meaning to ‘nostalgic’. Hence, it is the correct option.
Option d- ‘Soothing’ refers to something that has a peaceful effect. Example- My mother made a soothing cup of soup for me. ‘Soothing’ is different in meaning to ‘nostalgic’. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
So, the correct answer is “Option c”.

Note:
Some other commonly used synonyms of ‘nostalgic’ are sentimental, evocative, homesick, etc. While some commonly used antonyms of ‘nostalgic’ are cynical, hard-headed, unsentimental, etc.