In each of this question choose the option opposite in meaning to the word or phrase underlined The plebs can be found in every society of the world

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for the word opposite in meaning to "plebs" (the underlined word) in the sentence: "The plebs can be found in every society of the world."

Step 2: Explain the concept "Plebs" (short for plebeians) comes from ancient Rome. The plebeians were the common people, the ordinary working class, as opposed to the patricians, who were the nobles and aristocrats. Today, "plebs" means the common, lower-class people.

So we need a word meaning the opposite: the upper class, nobles, or privileged people.

Step 3: Check each option

• A. Elite: the select, privileged, or upper-class group in society. This is the opposite of the common people.
• B. Middle class: this lies between the upper and lower classes. It is not a direct opposite.
• C. Politicians: this describes a profession, not a social class.
• D. Masses: this is a synonym of "plebs" (the common people), not an opposite.

Step 4: Answer The opposite of "plebs" is elite.

Exam tip: In opposite-meaning questions, first work out the meaning of the word, then watch out for options that are synonyms. Here, "masses" is a trap because it means the same as "plebs". Remember the pair: plebs = commoners, patricians = elite.