Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the term underlined in the given sentence.
There was a rapid increase in Mr. Kumar's personal income.

Appeared in: DSSSB 12 August 2024

Explanation

The word 'rapid' describes something that happens quickly or at a great speed.
An antonym is a word with the opposite meaning.
'Gradual' means progressing slowly or by degrees, making it the direct antonym of 'rapid'.

Option A: 'Novel' means new or unusual and is unrelated to the concept of speed or pace.
Option C: 'Quick' is a synonym (a word with the same meaning) for 'rapid', not an antonym.
Option D: 'Low' is the antonym of 'high' and describes quantity or level, not the speed of change.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Vocabulary: Antonyms as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Precise vocabulary is critical in nursing for accurate documentation, clear communication with the healthcare team, and effective patient education.
Describing the onset of a patient's symptoms as 'rapid' versus 'gradual' has significant diagnostic implications. For instance, a rapid onset of chest pain may suggest a myocardial infarction, while a gradual onset might point to a different condition.
What if? If a nurse documents a 'rapid' deterioration in a patient's condition when it was actually 'gradual', it could lead to a delayed or inappropriate medical response, potentially harming the patient.

How to Approach the Question

First, determine the meaning of the underlined word, 'rapid'. It means fast, swift, or happening in a short time.
Next, carefully read the instruction, which asks for the 'ANTONYM' or the opposite of the word.
Evaluate each option to find the one with the opposite meaning.
Eliminate 'Quick' as it is a synonym.
Eliminate 'Novel' (new) and 'Low' (opposite of high) as they are unrelated to speed.
Identify 'Gradual' (slow, by degrees) as the correct antonym for 'rapid'.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QA-8-Gs6KxV-Iq88f6Cj-M

Practise the full DSSSB 12 August 2024

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