Read the passage and answer the question:

India today presents a very mixed picture of hope and anguish of remarkable advances and at the same time of inertia; of a new spirit and also the dead hand of the past and of privileges; of an overall and growing unity and many disruptive tendencies. Withal there is a great vitality and ferment in people’s minds and activities. It is remarkable thing that a country and people rooted in this remote past, who have shown so much resistance to change in the past; should now be marching forward rapidly and with resolute steps.

Choose the synonym for the word 'vitality' :

Question

Read the passage and answer the question:

India today presents a very mixed picture of hope and anguish of remarkable advances and at the same time of inertia; of a new spirit and also the dead hand of the past and of privileges; of an overall and growing unity and many disruptive tendencies. Withal there is a great vitality and ferment in people’s minds and activities. It is remarkable thing that a country and people rooted in this remote past, who have shown so much resistance to change in the past; should now be marching forward rapidly and with resolute steps.

Choose the synonym for the word 'vitality' :

Accepted Answer

The word 'vitality' refers to the state of being strong, active, and full of energy. It is often associated with liveliness, vigor, and the capacity for survival or for the continuation of a meaningful or purposeful existence. In the context of the passage, 'vitality' describes the dynamic and energetic nature of the changes and activities occurring in India.

1. **Explanation for Option 3 (Energy):**
   - The word 'energy' is a direct synonym for 'vitality.' Both terms convey a sense of liveliness and vigor. In the passage, the use of 'vitality' suggests that there is a significant amount of activity and dynamism in the minds and actions of the people. 'Energy' captures this essence perfectly, as it denotes the power and ability to be active and productive, aligning with the context of rapid progress and change described in the passage.

2. **Explanation for why other options are incorrect:**
   - **Option 1 (Lethargy):** Lethargy is the opposite of vitality. It refers to a state of sluggishness, inactivity, and lack of energy. This contradicts the passage's depiction of a vibrant and active society, making it an incorrect synonym for 'vitality.'
   - **Option 2 (Torpidity):** Torpidity also implies a lack of activity or sluggishness, similar to lethargy. It suggests a state of dormancy or inactivity, which is contrary to the energetic and dynamic connotations of 'vitality' in the passage.
   - **Option 4 (Externality):** Externality refers to an external factor or condition, which is unrelated to the concept of vitality. It does not convey any sense of energy or liveliness, making it an unsuitable synonym for 'vitality.'

In conclusion, Option 3 (Energy) is the correct synonym for 'vitality' as it accurately reflects the sense of liveliness and dynamism described in the passage. The other options do not align with the meaning of 'vitality' and are therefore incorrect.