Select the word from the given options that is similar in meaning to the word-VOLATILE.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → unstable
- Volatile means likely to change suddenly and unpredictably, often for the worse. It comes from the Latin "volare" (to fly): a volatile liquid quickly "flies off" as vapour.
Example: The situation in the border area remains volatile. - Unstable means not steady; likely to change or give way at any moment. Both words describe something that cannot be relied on to stay the same, so unstable is the synonym.
Example: The old bridge has become unstable.
Why the Other Options are Incorrect?
Option 2: trespass — Incorrect. Trespass means to enter someone's land or property without permission; it is a verb unrelated to change.
Example: Do not trespass on private property.
Option 3: transient — Incorrect. Transient means lasting only a short time; it is about duration, not about sudden, unpredictable change.
Example: Fame can be transient.
Option 4: perpetual — Incorrect. Perpetual means lasting for ever or never stopping; it suggests something that goes on without stopping, not something that changes suddenly.
Example: The town lives in perpetual fear of floods.
| Synonyms (Volatile) | Antonyms (Volatile) |
|---|---|
| unstable | stable |
| unpredictable | steady |
| erratic | constant |
| fickle | calm |
The following words have also been asked in other CUET (UG) English papers:
| Word | 2026 | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| volatile | – | 28-05 S1 | – | 13-06 S3 | – |
| trespass | – | – | – | 27-05 S3 | – |
| transient | 13-05 S1 15-05 S1 18-05 S2 | 19-05 S1 29-05 S1 | – | 02-06 S1 | 10-08 S1 |