Which of the two words given below are synonymous ?
(a) shun; (b) grant; (c) reverse; (d) avoid; (e) avail

Question

Accepted Answer

Option 3 is the correct answer because the words "shun" and "avoid" are synonymous. Both words convey the idea of deliberately keeping away from or steering clear of something or someone.

1. **Explanation for Option 3:**
   - "Shun" means to persistently avoid, ignore, or reject someone or something through antipathy or caution. 
   - "Avoid" means to keep away from or stop oneself from doing something.
   - Both words share the common theme of intentionally staying away from something, making them synonyms.

2. **Explanation for why other options are incorrect:**

- **Option 1: (b) grant and (e) avail**
     - "Grant" means to agree to give or allow something requested.
     - "Avail" means to use or take advantage of an opportunity or resource.
     - These words are not synonymous because "grant" involves giving or allowing, while "avail" involves using or benefiting from something.

- **Option 2: (c) reverse and (d) avoid**
     - "Reverse" means to move backward or to change to the opposite direction.
     - "Avoid" means to keep away from something.
     - These words are not synonymous as "reverse" involves changing direction or position, whereas "avoid" involves staying away from something.

- **Option 4: (d) avoid and (e) avail**
     - "Avoid" means to keep away from something.
     - "Avail" means to use or take advantage of an opportunity or resource.
     - These words are not synonymous because "avoid" involves staying away, while "avail" involves making use of something.

In conclusion, Option 3 is correct because "shun" and "avoid" both mean to deliberately stay away from something, making them synonymous. The other options do not pair words with similar meanings.