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

Appeared in: NVS Staff Nurse - 2019

Explanation

The word 'Blaze' signifies a large, intense, and brightly burning fire or a strong light.
The word 'Extinguish' means to put out a fire or cause a light to stop shining.
Therefore, 'Extinguish' is the direct antonym (opposite) of 'Blaze'.

Option A: To 'provoke' is to incite or stimulate a reaction, which is a concept unrelated to fire, light, or their cessation.
Option B: A 'flare' is a sudden burst of light or fire. This is similar in meaning to 'blaze' (a synonym), not its opposite.
Option C: 'Illumination' refers to the provision of light. A blaze provides illumination, so this word describes a characteristic or result of a blaze, not its opposite.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Antonyms (Opposite Meaning of Words) as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Knowledge of fire safety, including how to extinguish a fire, is a mandatory skill for all healthcare professionals to ensure patient and staff safety during emergencies.
The PASS mnemonic is a universal protocol taught in hospital safety training (e.g., during NABH accreditation preparations in India) to ensure a quick and effective response to a fire.
What if? - If a fire is electrical (Class C), a nurse must know not to use a water-based extinguisher (Class A). Using water on an electrical fire can spread the fire and create a severe electrocution risk. An ABC or CO2 extinguisher must be used instead.

How to Approach the Question

First, determine the precise meaning of the given word, 'Blaze'. It means a large, strong fire.
Next, analyze the meaning of each option provided.
The question asks for the 'furthest' or 'opposite' meaning. Your goal is to find the antonym.
Evaluate 'Extinguish', which means to put out a fire. This is a direct opposite.
Eliminate options that are similar in meaning (synonyms) like 'Flare'.
Rule out options that are unrelated ('Provoke') or describe a characteristic of the word rather than its opposite ('Illumination').

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.