Question

Choose the word which can be substituted for the given phrase/sentence:
The period between two reigns
a- Lapse
b- Interregnum
c- Stasis
d- Anachronism
e- Intermission

Answer 1

Hint: We use one-word substitutions to replace a phrase or a sentence. ‘The period between two reigns’ refers to the time period when the throne is vacant or unoccupied.

Complete answer:
We use ‘interregnum’ to indicate the period between the two reigns.
The word, ‘interregnum’ has been derived from the Latin word- Interregnum, which means between reign.
We know the meaning and the origin of the word. Now, let’s look at its usage:
For example- The villagers finally chose a king after years of interregnum. Here, we can understand that the villagers finally chose a king after years of the throne being vacant or unoccupied.
Let’s examine the given options-
Option a- ‘Lapse’ refers to a gap or passage of time. ‘Lapse’ is different in meaning to the given context. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option b- ‘Interregnum’ refers to the vacant period between two reigns. ‘Interregnum’ is similar in meaning to the given context. Hence, it is the correct option.
Option c- ‘Stasis’ refers to a state that remains unchangeable. ‘Stasis’ is different in meaning to the given context. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option d- ‘Anachronism’ refers to someone or something that is not placed in the appropriate chronology. ‘Anachronism’ is different in meaning to the given context. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option e- ‘Intermission’ refers to an interval or interlude. ‘Intermission’ is different in meaning to the given context. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
So, the correct answer is “Option b”.

Note:
Some other one-word substitutions for ‘the period between two reigns’ are; discontinuity, caesura, hiatus, etc.