Question

Choose the word that is opposite in meaning to the given word-
DIVERGE
a. Repulse
b. Converge
c. Resurge
d. Constrict

Answer 1

Hint: Diverge refers to dividing or separating from something and going into a different direction.

Complete answer:
The word ‘diverge’ has been derived from the Latin word- Disvergere, which means to turn on incline in two ways.
We know the meaning and the origin of the word ‘diverge’. Now, let’s look at its usage-
Example- The newly constructed road diverged into two paths. Here, we can understand that the newly constructed road is divided or separated into two paths.
Let’s examine the given options-
a. Repulse- It means to repel or fight back. It is different in meaning to diverge. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Example- The protestors tried to attack the parliament but were repulsed by the forces.
b. Converge- It means to meet or intersect at the same point. It is opposite in meaning to diverge. Hence, it is the correct option.
Example- The pilgrims travel hundreds of miles to converge in the Himalayas.
c. Resurge- It means to rise and become popular again. It is different in meaning to diverge. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Example- The fallen fighter resurged again.
d. Constrict- It means to compress or contract something. It is different in meaning to diverge. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Example- The snake constricts its prey.
Hence, the correct answer is option ‘b’.

Note: Use the elimination method to remove the options that are least likely to be the opposite of diverge.