Where is the wealth the rich man accumulated in his lifetime?

Analyze the question: You are asked for the word opposite in meaning to "accumulated" (the underlined word).

Explain the concept: To accumulate means to gather, collect, or build up something over time. An antonym would describe getting rid of something, spending it away, or wasting it.

Solution: Check each option.

• A. gather: means to collect. It is a synonym of "accumulated", so it is wrong.
• B. squandered: means to waste or spend recklessly. This is the opposite of building up wealth, so it fits.
• C. amass: means to gather a large quantity. It is a synonym, so it is wrong.
• D. piled up: means to heap or stack. It is a synonym, so it is wrong.

Three options (A, C and D) mean almost the same as "accumulated". Only one option goes in the opposite direction, which is squandered.

Answer: B. squandered

Exam tip: In "opposite in meaning" questions, first sort the options into synonyms and antonyms. If three options share one meaning, the odd one out is almost always the correct antonym. Also read the question carefully so you don't pick a synonym by mistake when they ask for the opposite.