Question

Find the synonym of the underlined word.
John was as deft at handling complaints as he was at teaching.
(a) Intelligent
(b) Angry
(c) Skilful
(d) Crude
(e) Awkward

Answer 1

Hint: We need to find the synonym of the word deft. Read the question and try to understand the context, it will give you an idea about the meaning of the given word. Now go through the options and recall their meaning. The one closest to the meaning of deft is the desired answer.

Complete answer:
 A synonym refers to a word that is closest in meaning to a given word. For example- Abandoned is a synonym for deserted.
‘Deft’ refers to the quality of being polished and accomplished in actions and movements. The word ‘deft’ has been derived from the English word- Daft, which means meek.
We know the meaning and the origin of the word ‘deft’. Now, let’s look at its usage-
For example- The deft teacher was able to read and write at the same time. Here, we can conclude that the skilled and experienced teacher was able to read and write at the same time.
Let’s decipher the meaning of the given options-
Option a- ‘Intelligent’ refers to the quality of being wise and intellectually superior. ‘Intelligent’ is different in meaning to the given context. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option b- ‘Angry’ refers to being agitated or frustrated by something or someone. ‘Angry’ is different in meaning to the given context. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option c- ‘Skilful’ refers to being skilled or talented. ‘Skilful’ is similar in meaning to the given context. Hence, it is the correct option.
Option d- ‘Crude’ refers to something unrefined or unprocessed. ‘Crude’ is different in meaning to the given context. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option e- ‘Awkward’ refers to feeling uncomfortable or embarrassed. ‘Awkward’ is opposite in meaning to the given context. Hence, it is an incorrect option. The correct answer is Option ‘c’.

Note:
Some other synonyms for ‘deft’ are; proficient, ingenious, nimble, etc while some antonyms for ‘deft’ are; ignorant, clumsy, incompetent, etc.