QUESTION 4QUESTION 4 OF 8 4 / 8Which is the closest antonym for the word exacerbate?A.alleviateB.validateC.consolidateD.designate

1. Break Down the Problem

To find the closest antonym for the word "exacerbate," we first need to understand what "exacerbate" means. It means to make a problem, situation, or feeling worse.

2. Relevant Concepts

Antonyms are words that have opposite meanings. Therefore, to solve this question, we will analyze each option to find which one conveys the opposite of "exacerbate."

3. Analysis and Detail

• A. Alleviate: This means to make (suffering, deficiency, or a problem) less severe. It is likely an antonym of "exacerbate."
• B. Validate: This means to check or prove the validity or accuracy of something. It does not relate to making a situation better or worse.
• C. Consolidate: This refers to making something physically stronger or more solid or combining resources. It does not imply the idea of alleviating problems.
• D. Designate: This means to officially assign a specified status or ascribe a quality to something. It does not have a relevant meaning against "exacerbate."

4. Verify and Summarize

Among the options analyzed, "alleviate" directly means to reduce the severity of something, making it the closest antonym to "exacerbate." The other options do not convey the opposite meaning.

Final Answer

A. alleviate is the closest antonym for the word "exacerbate."