Question
Download Solution PDFComprehension
Directions: In this section an underlined word has been used variously in three sentences S1, S2 and S3. You are required to determine in how many sentences has the word been used correctly, and mark your answer from the options (a), (b) or (c) given below. If the word has not been correctly used in any one or more of the given sentences mark your response as (d).
S1: The moribund state of the decaying colony depressed everyone.
S2: The strength of the collective remained moribund despite attempts at scuttling unity.
S3: Driven by a common purpose, the moribund group decided it would prevail notwithstanding of the adverseness of the situation.
Answer (Detailed Solution Below)
Detailed Solution
Download Solution PDF- The word "moribund" (adjective) means:
- (Of a person) at the point of death.
- (Of a thing) in terminal decline; lacking vitality or vigor; on the verge of extinction or termination.
- Let's analyze each sentence:
- S1: The moribund state of the decaying colony depressed everyone.
- Correct. Here, "moribund state" is used to describe a "decaying colony," which perfectly aligns with the meaning of being "in terminal decline" or "lacking vitality." A decaying entity would naturally be in a moribund state.
- S2: The strength of the collective remained moribund despite attempts at scuttling unity.
- Incorrect. "Scuttling unity" means actively undermining or destroying unity, which would typically lead to or exacerbate a decline in strength. If the strength "remained moribund despite attempts at scuttling unity," it suggests that these attempts did not affect its already dying state, or that its decline was independent of them, which is a convoluted and awkward usage. Usually, "despite" would be followed by an attempt to improve something, or a condition that should have led to a different outcome.
- S3: Driven by a common purpose, the moribund group decided it would prevail notwithstanding of the adverseness of the situation.
- Incorrect. This sentence presents a contradiction. A "moribund group" is one that is dying or lacking vitality. Such a group is not typically "driven by a common purpose" or capable of deciding it "would prevail" against adversity. The qualities of being driven and determined to prevail are antithetical to a moribund state. Additionally, "notwithstanding of" is grammatically incorrect; it should be "notwithstanding" or "in spite of."
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