Question

We place emphasis on mutual aid and cooperation in this organization. Find the synonym of the underlined word.
(A) Reward
(B) Work
(C) Stress
(D) Pressure
(E) Suspense

Answer 1

Hint: In linguistics, there are many words that closely resemble each other in their meanings. But they are not exactly the same. These words are synonyms that are thousands in number. One can be baffled by the degree of similarity in these, but they are meant to be used in different contexts.

Complete answer:

1. The meaning of the underlined word 'emphasis’ can be expressed as a noun. It refers to the importance, value, or prominence given to something. 

2. In order to find the correct answer, we need to go through all the options one by one and find their meaning in order to get the right word that resembles the meaning of the given word.

3. The first option, ‘reward’ refers to the recognition received by someone for their effort and service. 

4. The second option 'word’ is a noun that is an activity that requires physical and mental attention to do. It is done in order to achieve a purpose or result. 

5. The third option 'stress’ can be used to describe the extra importance and emphasis given to a particular subject. 

6. The fourth option, 'pressure’ is a noun as well as a verb. As a noun, it refers to the physical force exerted on. Whereas as a verb, it refers to persuading or intimidating someone to do something.  

7. 'Suspense’ is a state of mind which is described as excitement followed by the result of something. 

Hence, the correct answer is option ‘C'.

Note: If we can notice the options more closely then we will find some salient observations here. The word ‘pressure’ is also similar or has a nearer meaning with ‘emphasis’. But as per the syntax of the question sentence, we have to set the word ‘stress’ which is most apt in this sequence.