Question

Find the synonym of the underlined word.
Modern architecture seems incompatible in a city rich in history.
a. unlikely
b. unwitting
c. incongruous
d. unkempt
e. unsearchable

Answer 1

Hint: Synonyms are words that have similar definitions to the ones we have in hand. These words make the sentence more pleasing to read and write since we are not using the same words again and again. Incompatible refers to a state where something doesn’t fit together or go well together; in other words, not compatible. The sentence requires a word similar to “incompatible” which doesn’t change the message being conveyed to the reader.

Complete answer:
Now, considering the above options,
a) Unlikely: That which is improbable or which is not likely to occur is known as unlikely.
Eg: It is highly unlikely that they conduct the National exams amidst this pandemic.
b) Unwitting: refers to not being conscious about something or being ignorant and oblivious.
Eg: The younger son is quite unwitting to his surroundings.
c) Incongruous: Refers to inconsonant or unbecoming state of things. This is synonymous with the word, incompatible given in the question.
Eg: The people of India are becoming incongruous with the political outplay.
d) Unkempt: That which is not cared for. This is not synonymous with the word in question.
Eg: That girl is so unkempt. Why doesn’t she look after herself?
e) Unsearchable: refers to something that cannot be searched and, hence, is not the answer.
Eg: The professor gave an assignment which is nearly unsearchable.

Hence, the answer is Option c, incongruous.

Note: Here, try introducing each word into the sentence; if the meaning doesn’t change, then you have found the synonyms; also known as trial and error elimination.