Question

Against the given word, there are some alternatives, one of which is either similar in meaning (synonym) or opposite in meaning (antonym) to the word. Find out which of the given alternatives is either a synonym or an antonym of the word.

VIRTUOUS

a) Vulgar
b) Insincere
c) Vicious
d) Miserly

Answer 1

Hint: A synonym refers to a word that has the same meaning as another word, whereas an antonym refers to a word that is opposite in meaning to another word. Example- The synonym of cruel is evil and the antonym of cruel is kind.

Complete answer:

Virtuous refers to a person who is incorruptible and conforms to moral principles. The word virtuous has been derived from the Late Latin word- Virtus, which means virtue.
We know the meaning and the origin of the word ‘virtuous’. Now, let’s look at its usage:
Example- She’s a virtuous person despite poverty. Here, we can understand that X is an incorruptible and morally good person despite being poor.
Let’s examine the given options-
a) Vulgar- It refers to someone who is rude or offensive towards others. It is neither the synonym nor the antonym of virtuous. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
b) Insincere- It refers to someone who is two-faced or fake. It is neither the synonym nor the antonym of virtuous. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
c) Vicious- It refers to someone who is corrupt or evil. It is the antonym of virtuous. Hence, it is the correct option.
d) Miserly- It refers to someone who is greedy or ungenerous. It is neither the synonym nor the antonym of virtuous. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
The correct answer is Option ‘c’.

Note: Do not get confused between synonyms and antonyms. Carefully read the meaning of the given word and the options. Thereafter, use the elimination method to choose the suitable answer.