Question

Find the synonym of the underlined word-
Since I have been ill for a week, my appetite has lessened and I eat almost nothing.
a)Risen
b)Diminished
c)Extended
d)Increased
e)Acclaimed

Answer 1

Hint: A synonym refers to a word that is precisely or nearly the same in meaning to another word. Example- Dark is a synonym of dull. ‘Lessened’ refers to reducing or minimizing something.

Complete answer:
The word ‘lessened’ has been derived from the Late English word- Lessenen.
We know the meaning and the origin of the word ‘lessened’. Now, let’s look at its usage:
Example- The establishment of the town bridge has lessened the time taken to reach the town. Here, we can conclude that the establishment of the town bridge has reduced or diminished the time taken to reach the town.
Let’s decipher the meaning of the given options-
Option a- ‘Risen’ refers to arise or reach a higher position. Example- The hot air balloon rose in the air. ‘Risen’ is different in meaning to lessened. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option b- ‘Diminished’ refers to the process of reducing or decreasing. Example- The ministry diminished the powers of the local MLA’s. ‘Diminished’ is similar in meaning to lessened. Hence, it is the correct option.
Option c- ‘Extended’ refers to enlarging or expanding something in size or shape. Example- We are planning on extending our garden. ‘Extended’ is the opposite in meaning to lessened. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option d- ‘Increased’ refers to enlarging or expanding something. Example- The government has increased the amount of taxes. ‘Increased’ is the opposite in meaning to lessened. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option e- ‘Acclaimed’ refers to praising or applauding someone. Example- The dancer was acclaimed for his grand performance. ‘Acclaimed’ is completely different in meaning to lessened. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
The correct answer is Option ‘b’.

Note: If a given word has a positive connotation, then its synonym should also have a positive connotation. Hence, we need to scan the options and choose the word that does not dispute with the given word.