Antonym of the word 'Abolish' is?

Appeared in: WCL Staff Nurse - 2022

Explanation

The word 'Abolish' means to formally end or do away with a system, practice, or institution.
An antonym is a word that has the opposite meaning.
The word 'Institute' means to establish, create, or set up something new.
Therefore, 'Institute' is the direct opposite of 'Abolish'.

Option B: This is a synonym for 'Abolish'. 'Stamp out' means to eliminate or get rid of something, often forcefully, which is very similar to abolishing it.
Option C: This is a synonym for 'Abolish'. 'Rescind' means to officially cancel or revoke a law, decision, or agreement, which is a form of abolishment.
Option D: This is a synonym for 'Abolish'. 'Suppress' means to forcibly put an end to something, which aligns with the meaning of abolishing.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Antonyms and Synonyms as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
This question tests verbal reasoning, a foundational skill for clear and precise communication in all professional settings, including nursing.
Accurate understanding of language prevents misinterpretation of medical orders, patient charts, and policy documents, which is critical for patient safety.
What if the question asked for a synonym instead of an antonym? In that case, 'Stamp out', 'Rescind', and 'Suppress' would all be plausible correct answers, as they all share a similar meaning with 'Abolish'.

How to Approach the Question

First, define the meaning of the word in the question stem. 'Abolish' means to formally put an end to something.
Next, identify what the question is asking. It asks for the 'antonym', which is a word with the opposite meaning.
Analyze each option to determine its relationship to 'Abolish'.
Option A, 'Institute', means to establish or start, which is the opposite of ending something.
Options B, C, and D ('Stamp out', 'Rescind', 'Suppress') all have meanings related to ending or stopping something, making them synonyms.
Conclude that the only option with an opposite meaning is 'Institute'.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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