Question

Select the word closest in meaning to the given word.
Genial
a. Gloomy
b. Gracious
c. Grim
d. Solemn

Answer 1

Hint: The student should go through the options provided carefully and try to recall each of their meanings. Then the option which is the closest in meaning to the given word in question should be selected.

Complete answer:
Synonyms are words or phrases that mean exactly or nearly the same as another word or
phrase. For example- ‘sad’ and ‘depressed’.
Two words that can be interchanged in a context are said to be synonymous relative to that context. In the given question, the word ‘genial’ refers to ‘diffusing warmth and friendliness’.
Let us analyze the options given to us in this question:
Option (a.), 'gloomy', refers to ‘filled with melancholy and despondency’.
Therefore, option (a.) is incorrect as its meaning is not synonymous with that of the given word ‘genial’.
Option (b.), ‘gracious', refers to ‘characterized by charm, good taste, and generosity of spirit’.
Therefore, option (b.) is correct as its meaning is synonymous with that of the given word ‘genial’.
Option (c.), ‘grim', refers to ‘shockingly repellent; inspiring horror’.
Therefore, option (c.) is incorrect as its meaning is not synonymous with that of the given word ‘genial’.
Option (d.), ‘solemn', refers to ‘dignified and somber in manner or character and committed to keeping promises’. Therefore, option (d.) is incorrect as its meaning is not synonymous with that of the given word ‘genial’.

Note:
 If you don’t know the definition of the given word and have only used it in some given context previously, then use the given word in a sentence. Substitute the given word with each word in the options and choose the word which does not conflict with the context provided by the given word.