Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute for the given…
2023
Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute for the given group of words. "Trembling or affected by fear or nervousness"
Answer: B. Tremulous — Concept — A one-word substitute has to cover the sense range that the defining phrase sets out, not merely brush against part of it. Here the phrase offers…
- A.
Prudent
- B.
Tremulous
- C.
Corpulent
- D.
Hysterical
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Correct answer: B
Concept — A one-word substitute has to cover the sense range that the defining phrase sets out, not merely brush against part of it. Here the phrase offers alternative but related senses: the outward shaking, and the state of being affected by fear or nervousness. The right word is therefore the one whose ordinary dictionary sense spans that range, rather than a word that fits only a neighbouring idea.
Application — Tremulous comes from Latin tremere, meaning to tremble. Its dictionary sense is shaking or quivering, and it is used of a voice, hand or movement made unsteady by fear, nervousness or timidity. It thus covers both senses the phrase lists, which makes tremulous the one-word substitute here.
Contrast — the other words in the set carry senses drawn from different areas:
Word | Sense it carries | Area of meaning |
|---|---|---|
Prudent | Acting with care, foresight and sound judgement | Judgement and decision-making |
Corpulent | Bulky or fleshy in physical build | Physical appearance |
Hysterical | In an uncontrolled outburst of emotion, such as wild laughter, weeping or panic | Loss of emotional control |
Cross-check — test the word in a frame drawn from the definition: her voice was ______ with fear. Tremulous fits this frame in its ordinary sense, whereas a word for careful judgement, for bulky build, or for an uncontrolled outburst does not, which confirms the substitution.