Kaplan Nursing Entrance Practice Exam 2026 – The All-in-One Guide to Exam Success!

The term "scale" typically refers to the act of climbing or ascending. In context, if we are looking for the opposite of this action, we can consider movements that involve lowering or going down.

The choice indicating "descend" fits well as the opposite of ascending. When one scales upwards, they are moving higher, while descending denotes moving to a lower position or level. Therefore, in this instance, "descend" serves as the most direct antonym to "scale" when used in the context of movement.

The other options don't align as closely with the concept of scaling. "Ascend" implies the same direction of movement as scaling, while "remain" suggests stability and lack of movement altogether. "Increase" may suggest a growth in quantity or level but does not necessarily imply movement up or down, making "descend" the most appropriate opposite term in this context.