Question

Find the synonym of the underlined word.
The earliest watches were actually small decks hung from a strap around the neck.
A) First
B) Timely
C) Most unusual
D) Fastest
E) Most accurate

Answer 1

Hint: Synonyms are the words that have the same meanings and belong to the same parts of speech.

Complete answer:
Earliest is the superlative form of the adjective, early. It means near the beginning of a period of time. Let us observe its use.
For example: The assignment must be submitted at the earliest.
Now that we understood the meaning of earliest, let us analyse the given options to find it’s synonym.
A) First means preceding all others in time or near the beginning of a period of time. It is an adjective.
For example: Adam was the first man on this earth.
We observe that it has the same meaning as earliest. Hence, we can say that option ‘a’ is the correct answer.
B) Timely means regular or prompt. It is an adjective.
For example: A timely solution of problems prevents them from growing bigger.
We observe that it does not have the same meaning as earliest. Hence, we can say that option ‘b’ is not the correct answer.
C) Most unusual is the superlative form of the adjective, unusual. It means very extraordinary or rare.
For example: We are in a situation which is the most unusual of its kind.
We observe that it does not have the same meaning as earliest. Hence, we can say that option ‘c’ is not the correct answer.
D) Fastest is the superlative form of the adjective, fast. It means having the highest speed in comparison to others.
For example: Usain Bolt used to be the fastest runner in the world.
We observe that it does not have the same meaning as earliest. Hence, we can say that option ‘d’ is not the correct answer.
E) Most accurate is the superlative form of the adjective, accurate. It means correct or precise.
For example: Science requires the most accurate answers to it’s questions.
We observe that it does not have the same meaning as earliest. Hence, we can say that option ‘e’ is not the correct answer.

Thus, the correct answer is, option ‘a’ - first.

Note: It is to be noted that adjectives derived from numbers do not have different adjective forms.