Synonyms: Nouns for Abstract Concepts

"Propinquity" is a synonym for "proximity" or nearness. Another word for "guilt" is complicity, and another word for "mercy" is clemency. "Abstention" means sobriety, temperance. "Commendation" is praise or acclaim.

A "harbinger" is an omen or anything that indicates a future event.

A "retinue"is a group of advisers and assistants that accompanies someone, similar to an entourage.

"Vernacular" means the commonly spoken language of a particular people or place, so "language" is the correct answer.None of the other answers are close in meaning to "vernacular": “mystery” means anything that is kept secret or remains unexplained; “relaxation” means rest;“poison” means harmful substance; and“marking” means a characteristic pattern.

"Temerity" means boldness or audacity. "Gratification" means satisfaction, which is similar to "contentment." "Loyalty" means allegiance. "Amity" means friendship.

"Consumption" means the using up or expending of a resource.

"Aspersion" means slander or a malicious remark, so "slander" is the correct answer. None of the other answers are close in meaning to "aspersion": "overview" means summary;"transversal" means a line intersecting two or more lines;"notion" means idea; and "insect" means bug.

A "platitude" is a statement or expression that is overused. Thus, "cliché" is a synonym.

A "reservation" is a doubt or scruple about doing something.

A "paradox" is a contradiction, or a statement that leads to a senseless conclusion.