Select the option that is opposite in meaning to the word "QUELL":
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → Foment
Quell means to put an end to something, usually by force, such as a rebellion or a riot. It is also used for calming fears or doubts. Its antonym is foment.
Example: The police were called in to quell the riot.
| Word | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| (1) Foment (answer) | to stir up or encourage trouble, such as violence or rebellion | The leader was arrested for fomenting violence among the workers. |
| (2) Allay | to reduce or calm fear, doubt or pain (close in meaning to quell, not opposite) | The doctor's words allayed her fears. |
| (3) Subdue | to bring under control by force (a synonym of quell) | The army subdued the rebels within a week. |
| (4) Crush | of a revolt, to defeat it completely (this too is a synonym of quell) | The king crushed the uprising in the north. |
| Synonyms of quell: subdue, crush, suppress, allay Antonyms of quell: foment, provoke, incite, stir up Also asked in CUET (UG): foment – 21-05-2025 Slot 2 allay – 15-05-2024 Slot 1, 09-06-2023 Slot 2, 09-06-2023 Slot 1 |