Question

Select the word which means the opposite of the given word:
Compress
(a)Squeeze
(b)Constrict
(c)Expand
(d)Pierce

Answer 1

Hint: The question clearly states that we need to choose the option which means the opposite or is close to the opposite of the given word. Recall the meaning of the given word and the options and choose the most suitable one.

Complete answer: An opposite or an antonym refers to a word that is contrary in meaning to another word. For example- Loose is an antonym for tight. ‘Compress’ refers to flattening or squeezing something by pressure. The word ‘compress’ has been derived from the Latin word- Compremere, which means to press together.
We know the meaning and the origin of the word ‘compress’. Now, let’s look at its usage:
For example- My mother tried to compress all my clothes into a small bag. Here, we can comprehend that X’s mother tried to squeeze or push X’s clothes into a small bag.
Let’s decipher the meaning of the given options-
Option a- ‘Squeeze’ refers to crushing or compressing something. For example- All the students squeezed their hands as they climbed on the stage. ‘Squeeze’ is similar in meaning to the given context. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option b- ‘Constrict’ refers to tightening or compressing something by pressure or weight. For example- My doctor has advised me not to take any medicines that constrict the veins. ‘Constrict’ is similar in meaning to the given context. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option c- ‘Expand’ refers to inflating or enlarging something. For example- My father is planning on expanding his venture. ‘Expand’ is opposite in meaning to the given context. Hence, it is the correct option.
Option d- ‘Pierce’ refers to puncturing or penetrating through something. For example- The cobbler pierced the shoe and added a thread. ‘Pierce’ is different in meaning to the given context. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
The correct answer is Option ‘c’.

Note: Some other antonyms of ‘compress’ are; amplify, lengthen, enlarge, etc while some synonyms of ‘compress’ are; abbreviate, restrict, shorten, etc.