Choose the word that is most nearly opposite in meaning to expand.
Correct Answer :
Contract
Solution :
The correct answer is Contract.
Explanation:
To choose the word that is most nearly opposite in meaning (antonym) to expand, let us look at the definitions of the words involved:
• Expand: Means to become larger, or to increase in size, volume, area, or scope (to spread out or swell).
• Contract: Means to decrease in size, volume, or extent (to shrink, tighten, or draw together). Because contracting is the process of growing smaller, it serves as the direct opposite of expanding.
Analysis of the incorrect options:
• Amplify: Means to increase the strength, volume, or magnitude of something. This is related to increasing rather than decreasing.
• Stretch: Means to pull or draw out to a greater length or width. This action increases size rather than reducing it.
• Enlarge: Means to make or become larger, which is a synonym of expand.
Therefore, Contract is the correct antonym of expand.
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