Question

Choose the word that is opposite in a meaning to the given word.
PROSCRIBE

A. Interdict
B. Allow
C. Extend
D. Betray

Answer 1

Hint: Proscribe is a transitive verb which means to prohibit or boycott something or somebody, usually by law.


Complete answer:
The word proscribe was first originated in the 15th century and has a Latin derived prefix, pro (before) attached to the verb scribe, which means to write. During the 15th century, to proscribe was to publish the name of the person who had been boycotted from certain services.
For example: In India, the practice of Sati has been prescribed. Here, it means that due to legal implications, Sati has been prohibited in India.
Let us examine the given options to find the opposite of proscribe.
Interdict: Interdict is quite similar to proscribe, which means an authoritative prohibition. For example: Mr. Porter was found with drugs last week, he’s under a strict interdict. Hence, this is not a correct option.
Allow: Allow is an antonym to proscribe as it means to give or grant a permission to someone. For example: Kindly allow me to help you. Hence, this is a correct option.
Extend: Extend means to enlarge or increase. For example: I am thinking of extending my study area. Hence, this is not a correct option.
Betray: Betray is a verb and can be defined as an unfaithful action against a country or a person. For example: Sarah loved Ben unconditionally, but time again he betrayed her trust. Hence, this is not a correct option.
And hence option B is the correct answer.


Note: Proscribe can also mean to banish or exile somebody/something not typically by law. It can represent prohibition in general as well. Also, proscribe is often confused with prescribe. However, prescribe means to make a rule or to lay down a rule. For example: The Indian government prescribes to follow the safety guidelines.