Choose the option that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word(s) After thousands of years of existing, elephants still remain extant.

Analyze the question: The underlined word is extant. You need the option closest in meaning to it in the sentence "After thousands of years of existing, elephants still remain extant."

Explain the concept: Extant means still in existence, surviving, not extinct or destroyed. It is the opposite of extinct. Do not confuse it with extent (degree or range).

Go through the options:

• A. subdued means brought under control or made quiet. It has nothing to do with surviving.
• B. pulverized means crushed to powder or destroyed. This is nearly the opposite of the meaning.
• C. strong means having physical power. Elephants are strong, but extant is about existing, not strength.
• D. enduring means continuing to exist, lasting. This matches extant best, since elephants have survived and still exist after thousands of years.

Answer: D. Enduring is the closest in meaning. It is not a perfect synonym, since extant simply means "still existing" while enduring stresses lasting over time. In this context, with "thousands of years" in the sentence, it fits well.

Tip: Link extant with exist (both begin with "ex" and mean being present). When you see "extant," think "still around," and when you see "extinct," think "gone."