Antonym of relinquish select one: a. deny b. renounce c. possess d. abdicate
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is c. possess.
Explanation:
The verb “relinquish” means to voluntarily give up, abandon, or let go of something, especially a right, claim, or possession. When you relinquish something, you’re releasing control or ownership of it, often willingly. For example, if someone relinquishes their claim to an inheritance, they are giving up their right to that inheritance.
The antonym of “relinquish” should be a word that suggests retaining, keeping, or maintaining possession of something.
- Deny means to refuse or reject something, which isn’t the opposite of relinquishing because it doesn’t necessarily involve giving up possession or control.
- Renounce means to formally declare abandonment or rejection, especially of a belief, cause, or claim. It is similar in meaning to relinquish, not its opposite.
- Possess is the correct antonym. To possess something means to have control over it or own it. If you possess something, you have not relinquished it, meaning the two actions are direct opposites.
- Abdicate refers to giving up a position of power, such as a monarch abdicating the throne. While similar to relinquish, it implies a formal or voluntary step down from a responsibility or role, making it closer in meaning to relinquish than to possessing something.
In conclusion, the antonym of “relinquish” is possess, as it refers to retaining or keeping control or ownership of something, directly opposing the act of giving it up.