Select the word that best expresses the meaning of the underlined word. If you…
2017
Select the word that best expresses the meaning of the underlined word. If you abstain from unnecessary criticism, you will be happier in life.
- A.
Avoid
- B.
Indulge
- C.
Differ
- D.
Deny
Attempted by 4 students.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Concept
The verb ‘abstain’ means to deliberately hold back from doing something — to voluntarily refrain from or keep away from an action, often one that is tempting or easy to slip into. To choose the best synonym, look for the option that carries this same core idea: refraining from or keeping away from an act.
Applying it here
In ‘abstain from unnecessary criticism’, the sentence urges you to refrain from criticising needlessly. ‘Avoid’ means to keep away from or refrain from something, so replacing the word gives ‘avoid unnecessary criticism’, which keeps the meaning of the sentence intact. So ‘Avoid’ is the word that best expresses the meaning of ‘abstain’.
Why the other words do not fit
‘Indulge’ means to give in to or freely take part in something — the very opposite of holding back.
‘Differ’ means to be unlike something or to disagree with someone; it is about contrast, not refraining from an act.
‘Deny’ means to declare something untrue or to refuse to grant a request; it is about rejecting a claim, not voluntarily keeping away from an activity.