Question

Find the synonym of the underlined word.
The design of wildlife refuges is still a matter of considerable debate.

a)significance
b)controversy
c)urgency
d)concern
e)coincidence

Answer 1

Hint: The word ‘debate’ refers to ‘to argue about (a subject), especially in a formal manner’.

Complete step-by-step answer:

The word ‘debate’ can be used as a noun as well as a verb. In the given sentence, it is used as a noun. As a noun, it means ‘a formal discussion on a particular matter in a public meeting or legislative assembly'.

Now, we know the meaning and usage of the word ‘debate’. So, let’s look at the available options:

a)significance - This word means ‘the quality of being worthy of attention; importance'. This has a completely different meaning to the given word. So, this is an incorrect option.
b)controversy - This word means ‘prolonged public disagreement or heated discussion'. This has the exact same meaning to the given word. So, this is the correct option.
c)urgency - The word ‘urgency’ means ‘importance requiring swift action'. This has a different meaning to the given word. So, this is an incorrect option.
d)concern - The word ‘concern’ means ‘anxiety; worry'. This word also has a very different meaning to the given word. So, this is an incorrect answer.
e)coincidence - This word means ‘a remarkable concurrence of events or circumstances without apparent causal connection'. This has a completely different meaning to the given word. So, this is an incorrect answer.

Note: Remember that ‘debate’ can also be used as a noun. This helps to identify the correct option. Choose the option which has the exact same meaning as the given word.