Which one of the following words is opposite in meaning to the word, ‘soaring’ (Para 2) as used in the passage ?

The correct answer is falling.

Step-by-Step Explanation:

1. Analyze the given word:
The word ‘soaring’ means rising, increasing rapidly, or flying high in the air.

2. Understand the opposite meaning (Antonym):
We need to find a word that conveys the opposite of rising or moving upwards.

3. Evaluate the options:

• hovering: Remaining in one place in the air; lingering without significant vertical movement.
• exasperating: Intensely irritating or frustrating.
• falling: Moving downward from a higher position or decreasing in amount/degree. This is the direct opposite of soaring.
• deteriorating: Becoming progressively worse in quality or condition.

4. Conclusion:
Since soaring means rapidly going up/rising, its direct opposite in meaning is falling.