Kaplan Nursing Entrance Practice Exam

What is the opposite of "abandon"?

1. Desert

2. Resign

3. Restraint

4. Forsake

The correct answer is: Restraint

The term "abandon" generally refers to the act of leaving something behind or giving up on it without intending to return. To find the opposite of "abandon," one would look for a word that conveys the idea of holding onto something or maintaining possession or commitment. Restraint is relevant because it implies holding back, controlling oneself, or maintaining discipline over one’s actions or feelings. This can be viewed as an opposite to abandonment, where one might indiscriminately give up or leave something behind. By demonstrating restraint, a person is showing a sense of control and attachment, countering the idea of abandoning. The other terms do not reflect this sense of commitment or control. Desert and forsake both imply leaving something behind, while resign generally means to give up a position or title, which does not convey the same sense of ongoing attachment that restraint does. Thus, choosing restraint recognizes the importance of maintaining hold over something rather than leaving it behind.