Select two words that are synonyms, plus an antonym of these two synonyms, from the list of words below. excuse, regulate, bestow, condone, concede, condemn, incarcerate
The correct answer and explanation is :
The two synonyms from the list are “condone” and “excuse,” and their antonym is “condemn.”
Explanation:
- Synonyms: “Condone” and “Excuse”
- Both “condone” and “excuse” mean to overlook or forgive a fault, mistake, or wrongdoing.
- “Condone” refers to accepting or allowing morally questionable behavior without punishment. For example, “The teacher refused to condone cheating on the test.”
- “Excuse” means to overlook a mistake or wrongdoing, often by providing justification or leniency. For example, “He excused the child’s bad behavior because she was tired.”
- Antonym: “Condemn”
- “Condemn” is the opposite of both “condone” and “excuse” because it means to express strong disapproval or to officially declare something as wrong or unacceptable.
- For example, “The government condemned the violent actions of the protesters.”
- Unlike condoning or excusing, condemning means holding someone accountable for their actions and often implies punishment or severe criticism.
Why This Choice?
- Meaning and Usage: “Condone” and “excuse” share the idea of overlooking or allowing something without severe consequences, whereas “condemn” means to criticize and punish.
- Contextual Differences: Though “excuse” can sometimes mean to provide justification, and “condone” suggests turning a blind eye, both indicate tolerance rather than rejection. “Condemn,” however, strongly opposes both.
- Real-World Examples: In society, governments may excuse minor infractions but will condemn serious crimes, demonstrating the opposing nature of these words.
Thus, “condone” and “excuse” are synonyms, while “condemn” is their antonym.