Choose the word nearest in meaning to ABATE.

**The reasoning** ABATE means "to become less intense" or "to reduce in strength." Think of it like a storm that was fierce but gradually calms down, or pain that was sharp but slowly fades away. SUBSIDE carries the exact same meaning — something that was strong or intense gradually decreasing or settling down. When floodwater subsides, it goes down. When anger subsides, it reduces. The principle here is **synonyms** — words with similar meanings. Both "abate" and "subside" describe a gradual reduction or lessening. **Why the wrong options tempt you** - **Increase (B)** is actually the *opposite* of abate — it's what you might pick if you're guessing wildly - **Continue (C)** means to keep going at the same level, which misses the "reduction" aspect entirely - **Pour (D)** might sound related to water (like "subside"), but it means flowing heavily — the opposite of calming down **Quick takeaway** When you see ABATE, think: "the storm is *subsiding*" — both words mean things getting calmer, weaker, or less intense. They're perfect synonyms for gradual reduction.