Question

Select the word from the given options that is most similar in meaning to the word ALLEVIATE:

• A. Swell
• B. Aggravate
• C. Repel
• D. Assuage

Hint:

"Assuage" and "alleviate" both describe the action of easing or reducing something unpleasant, especially pain or difficulty.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the word "alleviate."
"Alleviate" means to make something less severe or more bearable. It is often used in the context of easing pain, hardship, or difficulty.
Step 2: Analyzing the options.

- Swell refers to something increasing in size or volume, which does not fit the meaning of alleviating.
- Aggravate means to make something worse, which is the opposite of alleviating.
- Repel means to drive away or resist, unrelated to easing or reducing difficulty.
- Assuage means to make something less intense or severe, which is a synonym of alleviate.
Step 3: Conclusion. "Assuage" is the most accurate synonym for "alleviate," as both refer to easing or reducing the severity of something. Thus, the correct answer is 4. Assuage.
Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{The correct answer is 4. Assuage.}} \]