Q.59 Which one of the following options is the closest in meaning to the word given below?
Mitigate
(A) Diminish (B) Divulge (C) Dedicate (D) Denote
English vocabulary questions like “closest in meaning to the word” frequently appear in SSC CGL, IBPS PO, and UPSC exams. These test your ability to identify precise synonyms amid distractors. Question 59 presents: Mitigate with options (A) Diminish, (B) Divulge, (C) Dedicate, (D) Denote.
Correct Answer: Option (A) Diminish
Mitigate means to make something less severe, intense, or painful—essentially reducing its negative impact. Diminish is the closest synonym, as it directly conveys reduction in size, extent, or intensity, aligning perfectly with mitigate’s core usage in contexts like risk mitigation or alleviating suffering.
Detailed Explanation of All Options
Each option tests nuanced word knowledge. Here’s a breakdown to clarify why only one matches.
Option (A): Diminish (Correct)
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Matches mitigate by implying reduction: “Trees mitigate climate change by diminishing carbon levels.”
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Common in formal writing; both verbs handle gradual lessening.
Option (B): Divulge (Incorrect)
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Means to reveal or disclose information secretly held: “She divulged the confidential plans.”
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Opposite intent—no reduction involved, focuses on exposure.
Option (C): Dedicate (Incorrect)
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Refers to devoting time, effort, or resources to a purpose: “They dedicated funds to research.”
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Conveys commitment, not lessening; unrelated to mitigate.
Option (D): Denote (Incorrect)
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Means to indicate or signify: “The symbol denotes danger.”
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Deals with representation, not reduction or alleviation.
| Option | Meaning | Matches Mitigate? | Example Usage |
|---|---|---|---|
| (A) Diminish | Reduce in size/extent | Yes | Diminish pain effects |
| (B) Divulge | Reveal secrets | No | Divulge company data |
| (C) Dedicate | Devote/commit | No | Dedicate to a cause |
| (D) Denote | Indicate/signify | No | Red light denotes stop |
Exam Strategies for Synonym Questions
Spot the mitigate synonym by focusing on context: mitigate often pairs with negatives like “risks,” “damage,” or “effects.” Eliminate outliers (reveal/devote/indicate) first. Practice roots: “mitigate” from Latin “mitis” (soft) + “agere” (do), meaning “to soften.”
Pro Tip: Build vocab with 10 words daily via apps like Vocabulary.com. For SSC, target 80% accuracy by grouping synonyms (alleviate, lessen, abate).
