Question

Which of the following words is most nearly same in meaning as the words TRAJECTORY as used in the passage?

• A. Result
• B. Tradition
• C. Path
• D. Consequence

Hint:

In reading comprehension, try substituting the options into the sentence: "followed a very different path..." maintains the original meaning perfectly.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Contextual vocabulary questions require determining the meaning of a word based on how it is used in the passage.
The word "trajectory" physically refers to the curve described by a projectile, but metaphorically describes a path, course, or line of development.
Detailed Explanation:
Let us evaluate the sentence from the passage:
"The development of nationalism in the third world countries, as is well known, followed a very different trajectory from that in the advanced capitalist countries."
Here, "trajectory" refers to the historical course, progression, or development route that nationalism followed in these nations.
Let us analyze the options:
- Result Consequence: Refer to the final outcome of an event, rather than the process or direction of its development.
- Tradition: Refers to long-established customs or beliefs passed down through generations.
- Path: Refers to a route, course of action, or developmental track. This matches the metaphorical meaning of "trajectory" in the passage, which describes the historical path taken by nationalism.

Step 2: Final Answer:
The word most nearly same in meaning to "trajectory" is Path, corresponding to Option (C).