Select the word that is furthest (opposite) in meaning to the given word. Heretical

Appeared in: NVS Staff Nurse - 2019

Explanation

The term 'Heretical' refers to holding opinions or beliefs that are contrary to what is generally accepted, especially in the context of religious or established dogma.
'Orthodox' means conforming to the established, traditional, and approved doctrines or beliefs.
Therefore, 'Orthodox' is the direct opposite of 'Heretical', representing conformity versus non-conformity.

Option B: 'Doubtful' means feeling uncertain. While a heretical view might cause doubt in others, the word itself does not mean the opposite of holding a non-conformist belief.
Option C: 'Impious' means lacking reverence or respect, especially for God. Heresy is about holding a different belief, not necessarily about being disrespectful. One can hold a heretical belief with great piety.
Option D: 'Amusing' means causing laughter or entertainment and is entirely unrelated to the concept of religious or doctrinal belief.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Antonyms and Vocabulary as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
While this is a vocabulary question, the concept has a parallel in healthcare: 'orthodox' treatments are evidence-based and follow established guidelines.
'Heretical' or unproven treatments can be dangerous and go against the principles of patient safety.
What if? If a nurse encounters a family member promoting a 'heretical' or unproven folk remedy for a serious condition, the nurse's priority is patient education on the risks and the importance of adhering to the prescribed, orthodox medical plan.

How to Approach the Question

First, understand the question. It asks for the word that is 'furthest (opposite)' in meaning, which means you need to find an antonym.
Define the given word, 'Heretical'. It means holding a belief that contradicts established doctrine.
Next, define each of the options: Orthodox (conforming), Doubtful (uncertain), Impious (disrespectful), and Amusing (entertaining).
Compare the meaning of each option to the meaning of 'Heretical'.
Identify the option that presents the most direct opposition. 'Conforming' (Orthodox) is the direct opposite of 'contradicting' (Heretical).
Eliminate the other options because they are either unrelated ('Amusing'), related but not opposite ('Impious'), or represent a different concept ('Doubtful').

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full NVS Staff Nurse - 2019

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