Choose the synonym of the given word:
GIST
a. Contribution
b. Substance
c. Prestige
d. Accessory

Hint: The student should go through the options provided carefully and try to recall each of their meanings. Then the option which is the closest in meaning to the given word in question should be selected.

Complete answer: Synonyms are words or phrases that mean exactly or nearly the same as another word or phrase. For example- ‘sad’ and ‘depressed’. Two words that can be interchanged in a context are said to be synonymous relative to that context. In the given question, the word ‘gist’ refers to ‘the choicest or most essential or most vital part of some idea or experience; the central meaning or theme of a speech or literary work’.
Let us analyze the options given to us in this question:
Option (a.), 'contribution', refers to ‘a writing for publication, especially one of a collection of writings as an article or story; the effort contributed by a person in bringing about a result’.
Therefore, option (a.) is incorrect as its meaning is not synonymous to that of the given word ‘gist’.
Option (b.), ‘substance', refers to ‘the choicest or most essential or most vital part of some idea or experience’.
Therefore, option (b.) is correct as its meaning is synonymous to that of the given word ‘gist’.
Option (c.), ‘prestige', refers to a high standing achieved through success or influence or wealth etc.’ Therefore, option (c.) is incorrect as its meaning is not synonymous to that of the given word ‘gist’.
Option (d.), ‘accessory', refers to a supplementary component that improves capability’.
Therefore, option (d.) is incorrect as its meaning is not synonymous to that of the given word ‘gist’.

Note: If you don’t know the definition of the given word and have only used it in some given context previously, then use the given word in a sentence. Substitute the given word with each word in the options and choose the word which does not conflict with the context provided by the given word.