Question

Choose the synonym of the given word-
INVIDIOUS
a. Irritable
b. Harsh
c. Sinful
d. Unpopular

Answer 1

Hint: A synonym refers to a word that is exactly or nearly the same in meaning to another word. Example- Extravagant is the synonym of lavish.

Complete Step by Step Answer: ‘Invidious’ refers to something that is unpleasant or hateful as it builds resentment or anger in others. The word ‘invidious’ has been derived from the Latin word- Invidia, which means envy.
We know the meaning and the origin of the word ‘invidious’. Now, let’s look at its usage:
Example- The lawyer put all the jury members in an invidious position. Here, we can understand that the lawyer put all the jury members in an unpleasant or irritable situation.
Let’s examine the given options-

Irritable- We use ‘irritable’ to refer to someone who is grumpy or ill-tempered. It is similar in meaning to invidious. Hence, it is the correct option.

Harsh- We use ‘harsh’ to refer to something or someone who is rude or ill-mannered. It is different in meaning to invidious. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Sinful- We use ‘sinful’ to refer to someone or an action that is morally corrupt or evil. It is different in meaning to invidious. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Unpopular- We use ‘unpopular’ to refer to something or someone who is unwelcomed or disliked by others. It is different in meaning to invidious. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
The correct answer is Option ‘a’.
Note: Carefully read and understand the meaning of the given word and the options. Thereafter, use the elimination method to choose the most logical answer.