NIMCET 2007 — English PYQ

The correct option is (a) ecstasy.

Detailed Solution

To find the word that best expresses the meaning of $\text{EXALTATION}$, let us break down the definitions and emotional contexts of the target word and the given options:

• $\text{EXALTATION}$: A state of extreme happiness, extreme joy, or elation. It refers to a feeling of being spiritually elevated or overjoyed.

  $$\text{Exaltation}\equiv \text{Elation}\equiv \text{Intense Joy}$$

Now let us analyze the choices:

• (a) ecstasy: A state of overwhelming emotion or sudden, intense frenzied happiness. This perfectly matches the core psychological and emotional meaning of exaltation.

• (b) eminence: High status, rank, or fame earned by a person in a specific sphere (e.g., a scholar of eminence). While exaltation can sometimes mean promoting someone to a high rank, as a state of being, it aligns with a state of mind rather than social standing.

• (c) adulation: Excessive devotion, flattery, or high praise from others. This is an external action directed towards someone, not an internal feeling.

• (d) offense: An illegal act, crime, or insult. This has a completely unrelated, negative meaning.

Conclusion

$$\text{EXALTATION}\approx \text{ecstasy}$$