In the following question, out of the four alternatives, select the alternative which is the best one-word substitute for the given group of words.\n\nDiminish in value over a period of time

Introduction / Context:
This question asks for a one-word substitute for the phrase “diminish in value over a period of time.” Such questions are common in competitive exams to test your command of precise vocabulary, especially words used in financial or economic contexts.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Phrase: diminish in value over a period of time.
• Options: Escalate, Augment, Aggrandise, Depreciate.
• We are looking for a verb that means “to decrease in value gradually.”
• The context may relate to money, property, assets, or reputation.

Concept / Approach:
“Depreciate” is the standard English verb used to describe the gradual decrease in the value of an asset over time, for example, a car or a machine that becomes less valuable as it ages or is used. In finance and accounting, depreciation is a key concept. The other options all describe increase in value or importance and therefore do not match the “diminish” part of the phrase.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Focus on the core idea: the value is going down, not up.Step 2: Examine “Escalate,” which means to increase in intensity, amount, or seriousness, the opposite of diminish.Step 3: Examine “Augment,” which means to make something larger or more numerous.Step 4: Examine “Aggrandise,” which means to make something appear greater, more powerful, or more important.Step 5: Examine “Depreciate,” which means to decrease in value over time; this matches the definition exactly.

Verification / Alternative check:
Use the candidate words in sample sentences: “The value of the car will depreciate each year.” This sentence fits the phrase “diminish in value over a period of time” perfectly. By contrast, “The value of the car will escalate or augment” would mean the value goes up, contradicting “diminish.” “Aggrandise” is used for reputation or power, not generally for market value. These checks confirm that “depreciate” is the correct answer.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A: “Escalate” means to rise or increase quickly.

Option B: “Augment” means to add to or increase.

Option C: “Aggrandise” focuses on enlarging importance or status, not on lowering value.

Option E: “Appreciate” also means to increase in value over time, especially in financial contexts, the direct opposite of “depreciate.”

Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes confuse “appreciate” and “depreciate” because both are technical-sounding words linked with value. A good memory aid is to note that “de-” often suggests removal or reduction, while “ap-” (in this context) is used with positive growth. Knowing these word parts can help you avoid errors. Also, always match the direction of change in the question—“diminish” clearly signals a decrease, not an increase.

Final Answer:
Depreciate