Choose the appropriate word which is closest in meaning to the underlined word:-
The school focused on the holistic development of children.
A. physical
B. overall
C. comprehensive
D. cognitive
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → B and C only
Holistic (from the Greek holos, whole) means dealing with the whole of something rather than only its separate parts. The school cared for every side of the children's growth: body, mind, feelings and character.
Example: The doctor took a holistic approach to the patient's health.
(A) physical — Incorrect. Physical means relating to the body; physical development is only one part of holistic development.
Example: Daily exercise is good for physical fitness.
(B) overall — Correct. Overall means taking everything into account, as a whole; overall development is development of every kind.
Example: The overall result of the class was good.
(C) comprehensive — Correct. Comprehensive means including all or nearly all aspects of something; it too stresses the whole.
Example: The book gives a comprehensive account of the freedom struggle.
(D) cognitive — Incorrect. Cognitive means connected with thinking, learning and understanding; it covers only the mental side of development.
Example: Puzzles help the cognitive growth of young children.
| Synonyms (Holistic) | Antonyms (Holistic) |
|---|---|
| overall | partial |
| comprehensive | fragmented |
| integrated | piecemeal |
| all-round | narrow |