Identify the correctly paired opposite.

Appeared in: GMCH - 2015

Explanation

The question asks to identify a pair of words that are opposites (antonyms).
The word 'Wild' means living in a natural state, not domesticated.
The word 'Tame' means domesticated and not dangerous to people.
These two words have directly opposite meanings, making them a correct pair of antonyms.

Option A: The words 'Old' and 'Aged' are synonyms; they have similar meanings, not opposite ones.
Option B: 'Clean' and 'Cleanest' are not opposites. They represent different degrees of the same adjective ('Clean' is the positive degree, and 'Cleanest' is the superlative degree).
Option C: 'Beautiful' and 'Dark' are unrelated adjectives. The opposite of 'Beautiful' is 'Ugly,' and the opposite of 'Dark' is 'Light.'.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Antonyms (Opposites) as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
This is a non-nursing question that tests verbal reasoning and vocabulary.
Strong vocabulary and understanding of word relationships are essential for clear and precise communication in any professional setting, including nursing, to avoid misunderstandings in documentation and patient interaction.
What if the question asked for synonyms? In that case, 'Old : Aged' would be the correct answer as both words describe something of advanced age.

How to Approach the Question

First, understand the question's requirement, which is to find a pair of 'opposites' or antonyms.
Analyze each option pair to determine the relationship between the two words.
Option A (Old : Aged): Recognize these are synonyms (similar meaning).
Option B (Clean : Cleanest): Identify this as a degree of comparison, not an opposite.
Option C (Beautiful : Dark): Note that these words are not directly opposite. Think of the actual opposite for each word (Ugly, Light).
Option D (Wild : Tame): Recognize that these words have contrary meanings, making them antonyms.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full GMCH - 2015

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.