Choose the appropriate synonym of the underlined word from the options given.
The farmers feared a reprisal from the moneylender if they complained to the district collector about his high rates.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → Retaliation
In the given sentence, reprisal means an act of harming someone in return for something they did. Its synonym is retaliation. Example: The shop owner did not report the theft out of fear of reprisal from the gang.
| Word | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| (1) Reproach | words or looks that show disapproval of what someone did (only a scolding, not an act of hitting back) | Papa’s silent look was a reproach for coming home late. |
| (2) Restitution | giving back what was lost or stolen, or paying for damage | The court ordered the builder to make restitution to the flat owners. |
| (3) Ultimatum | a final demand, with a threat if it is not met | The landlord gave us an ultimatum to pay the rent by Friday. |
| (4) Retaliation (answer) | hitting back at someone who has harmed you (same as reprisal) | The loud music at midnight was retaliation for the complaint we had made. |
| Synonyms of reprisal: retaliation, revenge, vengeance, retribution Antonyms of reprisal: forgiveness, pardon |