Question

Find the synonym of the underlined word-
The rivalry between the two constructive companies was obvious since it had led to more affordable house prices.
a)Competition
b)Cooperation
c)Compromise
d)Campaign
e)Enmity

Answer 1

Hint: A synonym refers to a word that is nearly or precisely the same in meaning to another word. Example- Big is a synonym of huge. ‘Rivalry’ refers to conflict or feud between people or organizations on the basis of the same objective or goal.

Complete answer:
 The word ‘rivalry’ has been derived from the Latin word- Rivalis.
We know the meaning and the origin of the word ‘rivalry’. Now, let’s look at its usage-
Example- There has been an intense rivalry among the members of our society for years. Here, we can understand that there has been a conflict or feud between the members of the society for years.
In the given question: We can conclude that competition between the two constructive companies was obvious since it had led to more affordable house prices.
Let’s examine the given options-
Option a- ‘Competition’ refers to a conflict or battle between two opposition parties or teams. Example- We have seen a growing competition between the two brands. ‘Competition’ is similar in meaning to rivalry. Hence, it is the correct option.
Option b- ‘Cooperation’ refers to coordination or team-work. Example- The speaker requested for cooperation among the audience. ‘Cooperation’ is different in meaning to rivalry. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option c- ‘Compromise’ refers to agreeing or settling a dispute. Example- The two parties compromised and signed the agreement. ‘Compromise’ is different in meaning to rivalry. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option d- ‘Campaign’ refers to attacking or engaging in battle. Example- The soldiers were involved in a deadly forest campaign. ‘Campaign’ is different in meaning to rivalry. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option e- ‘Enmity’ refers to the state of hostility or conflict. Example- The towns have faced years of enmity. ‘Enmity’ is different in meaning to rivalry. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
The correct answer is Option ‘a’.

Note: Do not get confused between ‘competition’ and ‘enmity’, as we have used ‘rivalry’ in the context of competition between two companies. Hence, ‘competition’ is the correct synonym as it matches the given context of the sentence.