GENERAL ENGLISH Synonyms

04
SYNONYMS
Another aspect of vocabulary is questions based on similar words. These questions are 8 to 10 in number
and may be either in sentence format or in direct format. To answer the questions based on sentence
format, the candidate is required to answer according to the context within.

Synonyms are the words which have a similar meaning to that of a given word.
e.g. The synonyms of the word ‘reside’ is abode, dwell, to live, etc.
Here, all the underlined words have the same meaning in context to the given word.
Questions on synonyms are based on direct and sentence format, which are as follow

1. Direct Format
In this format a word is given and out of the given four options, a word is to be selected which is the correct meaning
of the given word.
e.g. Which of the given words is closest in meaning of the words provided?
REMOTE
(a) Automatic (b) Distant (c) Mean (d) Savage
Explanation (b) Remote means located far away and ‘Distant’ also means ‘far away in space or time’. While, Automatic
means done or occurring spontaneously, Mean means intend to convey or refer to and Savage means cruel and
vicious. So, the right synonym for ‘Remote’ is ‘Distant’. Hence, option (b) is the correct choice.

2. Sentence Format
In this format one word of a sentence is highlighted and out of the given four options, a word is to be selected which
is similar in meaning to the highlighted word.
e.g. Which of the given word have the same meaning to the word written in capital letters?
A person gets WEAK mobile signal in remote area.
(a) fluctuating (b) falling (c) low (d) distant
Explanation (c) In this sentence ‘Weak’ is used as ‘Low’ mobile signal. While, Fluctuating (rise and fall), Falling (drop
down) and Distant (faraway) are different in meaning to the given word. Hence, option (c) is the correct choice.
462 NDA/NA Pathfinder

CHECK YOUR VOCABULARY

FIND THE SYNONYM OF GIVEN WORDS
Directions (Q. Nos. 1-50) In the 16. NEGLIGIBLE 32. BESPOKE
following items, which of the given (a) Insignificant (b) Arguable (a) Gentle (b) Quiet
words is closest in meaning to the (c) Careless (d) Dark (c) Tailored (d) Handsome
words provided.
17. PLACID 33. DIFFIDENT
1. MODEST (a) Calm (b) Lazy (a) Apathetic (b) Shy
(a) Attractive (b) Clever (c) Solemn (d) Devious (c) Arrogant (d) Quarrelsome
(c) Current (d) Humble
18. RAKE 34. PROFFER
2. CUSTOM (a) Thin (b) Scoundrel (a) Mendicant (b) Wastrel
(a) Dessert (b) Habit (c) Gentleman (d) Shovel (c) Predict (d) Tender
(c) Ethic (d) Deliver
19. DUPE 35. MORDANT
3. PROLONG (a) Rancher (b) Trick (a) Dead (b) Gruesome
(a) Extend (b) Inquire (c) Simpleton (d) Drug (c) Fetid (d) Caustic
(c) Relax (d) Wait
20. STIGMA 36. CHURLISH
4. HUSTLE (a) Stain (b) Trial (a) Childish (b) Boorish
(a) Dance (b) Hurry (c) Difficulty (d) Holiness (c) Tempestuous (d) Disorderly
(c) Busy (d) Clean
21. RESIDE 37. ANTEDILUVIAN
5. SOLEMN (a) Remain (b) Home (a) Antiquated (b) Parched
(a) Amusing (b) Harmful (c) Dwell (d) Sediment (c) Nonsectarian (d) Nonsensical
(c) Speech (d) Serious
22. COVETOUS 38. PICAYUNE
6. IMPLY (a) Quiet (b) Sneaky (a) Petty (b) Spicy
(a) Suggest (b) Stab (c) Lurking (d) Greedy (c) Paltry (d) Southern
(c) Thick (d) Destroy
23. ABIDE 39. SMITE
7. RAMBLE (a) Endure (b) Hate (a) Flee (b) Speck
(a) Knot (b) Confuse (c) Attendance (d) Live (c) Dirt (d) Strike
(c) Wander (d) Wonder
24. SHREWD 40. WINNOW
8. BENEFICIAL (a) Intractable (b) Mean (a) Carve (b) Wind
(a) Help (b) Advantageous (c) Astute (d) Intelligent (c) Weed (d) Carry
(c) Charity (d) Wise
25. FETTER 41. EXPLOIT
9. FLARE (a) Rancid (b) Praise (a) Utilise (b) Alert
(a) Judicial (b) Temper (c) Hamper (d) Persist (c) Support (d) Neglect
(c) Style (d) Blaze
26. FLAGRANT 42. DETRIMENTAL
10. NEGLIGENT (a) Vibrant (b) Glaring (a) Demolition (b) Aversion
(a) Pajamas (b) Morbid (c) Vicious (d) Pleasant (c) Beneficial (d) Harmful
(c) Careless (d) Dark
27. MITIGATE 43. SHARP
11. ALOOF (a) Relieve (b) Blend (a) Bleakly (b) Bluntly
(a) Above (b) Tidy (c) Defend (d) Confuse (c) Exactly (d) Blond
(c) Clever (d) Reserved
28. RAIL 44. CONDEMN
12. RESOLVE (a) Scold (b) Push (a) Censure (b) Approve
(a) Turn (b) Puzzle (c) Try (d) Punish (c) Recommend (d) Praise
(c) Decide (d) Want
29. MELD 45. RELUCTANT
13. CONGREGATE (a) Character (b) Distinction (a) Disinclined (b) Anxious
(a) Worship (b) Gather (c) Blend (d) Firmness (c) Refuse (d) Eager
(c) Disturb (d) Hurry
30. RALLY 46. INTRICATE
14. UTTER (a) Demonstrate (b) Muster (a) Complicated (b) Simple
(a) Express (b) Defer (c) Course (d) Truly (c) Colourful (d) Good
(c) Borrow (d) Laugh
31. ABJECT 47. PENURY
15. FEARLESS (a) Indigent (b) Desire (a) Prompous (b) Luxury
(a) Powerful (b) Cowardly (c) Deplorable (d) Extreme (c) Poverty (d) Punitive
(c) Brave (d) Careful
 48. EXPOSTULATE 58. Teaching in universities is now 71. She is a woman of STERLING
(a) Protest (b) Agree considered a LUCRATIVE job. qualities.
(c) Follow (d) Argue (a) risky (b) profitable (a) interesting (b) outstanding
(c) honourable (d) undignified (c) irritating (d) exciting
49. ABSURD
(a) Senseless (b) Clean 59. The committee conducted an 72. Although the boys in his class
(c) Abrupt (d) Candid EXHAUSTIVE inquiry. were naughty, he never resorted
(a) time-consuming to CORPORAL punishment.
50. PHILANTHROPY (a) harsh (b) physical
(a) Generosity (b) Perversity (b) complicated
(c) renewed (c) unjust (d) general
(c) Perjury (d) Flaunting
(d) thorough 73. He wanted to MITIGATE his
60. He is just LAYING UP a lot of burdens.
Directions (Q. Nos. 51-100) Each of (a) lessen (b) increase
the following items consists of a trouble for himself.
(a) clearing (b) accumulating (c) postpone (d) leave
sentence followed by four words or
(c) accepting (d) removing 74. She adjusted quite well with her
group of words. Select the synonym
husband’s IDIOSYNCRASIES.
of word (occurring in the sentence in 61. He fought the demon with all
(a) peculiar habits
capital letters) as per the context. his MIGHT.
(b) bad habits
(a) heaviness (b) strength
51. The engineer ROUGHED OUT (c) weaknesses
(c) density (d) popularity
his ideas on a piece of paper (d) stupid manners
while he talked. 62. Devotees believe that God
75. The Deputy Inspector General
(a) shaped roughly DWELLS in their heart.
made a PERFUNCTORY
(b) rejected (a) lives (b) insists
inspection of the police station.
(c) drew a quick plan (c) travels (d) enters
(a) thorough and complete
(d) described inaccurately 63. Not everyone can RESPOND TO (b) superficial
52. He fell into an ABYSS of a difficult question quickly. (c) done as a routine but without
despair. (a) discuss (b) argue interest
(a) well (c) answer (d) deny (d) intensive
(b) deep pit 64. The sage did not want to be 76. The decision to drop the atom
(c) sea bothered with MUNDANE bomb on Hiroshima was a
(d) hollow concerns. GRAVE one.
53. He had the AUDACITY to (a) worldly (b) meaningless (a) serious (b) momentous
interrupt the Governor of the (c) trivial (d) superfluous (c) instinctive (d) impulsive
State while the latter was 65. Mountaineering in bad weather 77. A scientist generally carries out
addressing a gathering of is DANGEROUS. his investigations
academicians. (a) threatening (b) shaky EMPIRICALLY.
(a) courage (b) authority (c) perilous (d) slippery (a) by intuitively
(c) foolishness (d) arroganace (b) by verbally
66. Stellar groupings tend to be
54. After weeks of FRENETIC UNLIMITED. (c) by through written
activity, the ground was ready (a) lengthy (b) heavenly communication
for the big match. (c) huge (d) infinite (d) by observation and experiment
(a) strenuous (b) hurried 78. He is employed in an
67. One who rules with unlimited
(c) excited (d) hectic ORDNANCE factory.
power is called a DICTATOR.
55. The students took COPIOUS (a) anarchist (b) autocrat (a) orthodox
notes during the lecture (c) egoist (d) sychophant (b) arms and ammunition
delivered by the visiting (c) electrical and electronic
68. He was not ready with his (d) ordinary and common
professor.
ANNUAL accounts.
(a) extensive (b) exhaustive 79. He is a SYCOPHANT who tries
(a) yearly (b) important
(c) bounteous (d) abounding to win over
(c) monthly (d) permanent
56. Very few people are politicians.
69. Society cannot depend upon a (a) psychologist
IMPERVIOUS to criticism.
FANATIC for guidance. (b) opportunist
(a) impenetrable (b) unaffected
(a) optimist (b) martyr (c) unscrupulous man
(c) unstoppable (d) unmindful
(c) bigot (d) anarchist (d) flatterer
57. The policemen kept on
70. A busy person cannot waste his 80. I cannot believe in the
questioning the criminal but
time on TRIVIAL issues. VERACITY of his statement.
failed to ELICIT the truth.
(a) unimportant (b) rude (a) truth (b) usefulness
(a) evoke (b) wrest
(c) crude (d) tribal (c) sincerity (d) falsity
(c) obtain (d) extort
 81. I never believed that it was the 87. Please do not INTERFERE with 94. His bad behaviour EVOKED
AUTHENTIC signature of the my work. punishment.
Prime Minister. (a) meddle (b) help (a) escaped
(a) hand-written (b) genuine (c) object (d) copy (b) called for
(c) proper (d) authoritative (c) produced
88. This job is very TEDIOUS.
82. Valiant Vicky used to BOAST of (d) summoned
(a) tiresome (b) dull
his bravery to his beloved wife. (c) interesting (d) exciting 95. Please do not give any more
(a) cry (b) abuse FLIMSY pretexts for not having
89. She TAKES AFTER her mother.
(c) hate (d) brag done the work.
(a) follows (b) comes after
83. I can no longer be satisfied with (a) insubstantial (b) strong
(c) resembles (d) lmitates
FICTITIOUS good conduct. (c) justified (d) impulsive
90. He is very intelligent, but
(a) based on facts 96. He was the court appointed
(b) based on imagination ILL-FAVOURED by nature.
lawyer for fifty-six INDIGENT
(c) based on hatred (a) unlucky
defendants.
(d) based on feudal ties (b) weak in health
(a) indian men (b) poor
(c) short-tempered
84. MASS MURDER is very often a (c) guilty (d) untried
(d) ugly
result of communal frenzy. 97. The boy said that pain had
(a) Patricide (b) Fratricide 91. The song had a SOPORIFIC ABATED.
(c) Regicide (d) Genocide effect on the child. (a) reduced (b) vanished
(a) soothing (c) increased (d) stabilised
85. The two EXECUTIONERS (b) terrific
approached the tree with a red (c) supreme 98. He became known as an
mark on its side. (d) sleep-inducing IMPLACABLE foe of
(a) executive engineers fundamentalism.
(b) explorers 92. His ALLEGIANCE to the party (a) relentless (b) pleasing
(c) experimenters was suspect from the very (c) dangerous (d) courageous
(d) those who inflict capital beginning.
(a) servility
99. The queen was aware of the
punishment INSOLENT behaviour of the
(b) obedience
86. The MAIDEN SPEECH of the lords.
(c) loyalty
young member of the Lok Sabha (a) violent (b) polite
(d) passivity
was very much appreciated by (c) insulting (d) frivolous
the people. 93. Sympathetic criticism has a
100. Modern man is PRAGMATIC in
(a) farewell speech SALUTARY effect.
his dealings.
(b) short speech (a) premature (b) terrible
(a) practical (b) playful
(c) first speech (c) disastrous (d) beneficial
(c) casual (d) clever
(d) speech about women

QUESTIONS FROM
NDA/NA EXAM (2012-2016)
Directions (Q. Nos. 1-69) Each of the following items, consists of a sentence followed by four words or group of words.
Select the synonym of word (occurring in the sentence in capital letters) as per the context.

2012 (I) 3. EXAGGERATION of facts would 5. He INDUCES human beings to

1. The convict’s INGENUOUS always lead to confusion. want things they don’t want.
explanation brought tears in (a) Simplification (a) influences
every eye. (b) Negation (b) dictates
(a) candid (b) secret (c) Emancipation (c) persuades
(c) insincere (d) consistent (d) Amplification (d) appreciates

2. The ENORMITY of the 4. After his father’s death, he 6. His information is not
population problem is irksome. became INSOLVENT. AUTHENTIC.
(a) real (b) reliable
(a) intensity (b) vastness (a) rich (b) poor
(c) believable (d) genuine
(c) cruelty (d) fragility (c) bankrupt (d) nonchalant
 7. He is not CUT OUT to be a 17. She thought that RUNNING 28. By 1918, Gandhiji had
teacher. INTO her old friend was a stroke established himself as a leader
(a) trained (b) suited of fate. with a UNIQUE way of
(c) selected (d) guided (a) meeting by chance protesting exploitation and
(b) colliding injustice.
8. The Chief Minister (a) different (b) exceptional
(c) travelling with
REPRIMANDED the officers (c) excellent (d) good
(d) quarrelling with
for their methods of handling
the public. 18. He was a CHARISMATIC leader. 29. Your INTERVENTION was
(a) adulated (a) exceptionally fascinating required.
(b) scolded severely (b) particularly popular (a) interference (b) interruption
(c) disapproved of (c) compulsively pleasant (c) disturbance (d) connection
(d) suspended (d) strangely haunting 30. It is difficult to DISCERN the
19. She was completely sample on the slide without
9. Sin is the sole calamity that a
ENGROSSED in her work. adjusting the microscope.
wise man should
(a) disturbed (b) absorbed (a) discard (b) arrange
APPREHEND.
(c) fatigued (d) successful (c) determine (d) debate
(a) give up
(b) discourage 20. He is an INDEFATIGABLE
(c) comprehend worker. 2013 (II)
(d) fear (a) tired (b) tireless 31. A wise man puts past
10. We must be proud of our (c) brave (d) skilful RANCOUR behind and moves
cultural HERITAGE. ahead.
(a) things we make for ourselves 2013 (I) (a) dislike (b) hatred
(b) things we have lost (c) division (d) criticism
21. One must live life with
(c) things we have from the past 32. Many of the villagers were
DIGNITY.
(d) things we do for others ISOLATED by heavy showers of
(a) nobility (b) eminence
(c) honour (d) rank rains.
2012 (II) 22. Europe, America and Japan have
(a) destroyed
(b) separated from others
11. MOMENTOUS changes are taken to the field of science with
(c) battered
taking place in the social and SINGULAR vigour and activity.
(d) devasted
economic life of India. (a) peculiar (b) outstanding
(a) Notorious (b) Momentary (c) familiar (d) single 33. A series of COLUMNS
(c) Official (d) Enormous supporting a large porch is
23. Our age is pre-eminently an AGE
typical of medieval architecture.
12. His condition of science.
(a) statues (b) arches
DETERIORATED day-by-day. (a) era (b) date
(c) pillars (d) murals
(a) went bad (b) grew worse (c) generation (d) moment
(c) went down (d) grew bad 34. Trees that BLOCK the view of
24. Ant is believed to be the most
oncoming traffic should be cut
13. She is pretty INSIPID young INDUSTRIOUS creature.
down.
lady. (a) sensible (b) successful
(a) alter (b) obstruct
(a) clever (b) lazy (c) diligent (d) punctual
(c) improve (d) spoil
(c) dull (d) lean 25. The schools insist on giving
35. The landscape changed
14. It is the difficulty or WHOLESOME food to the
ABRUPTLY after the snowfall.
SCARCITY of a thing that children for the proper growth of
(a) suddenly (b) sharply
makes it precious. their mind and body.
(c) favourably (d) slightly
(a) poverty (b) absence (a) whole crops (b) nourishing
(c) insufficiency (d) disappearance (c) fit (d) sound 36. We saw a SCINTILLATING
fireworks display.
15. We should not allow 26. As I look around, I see the
(a) fascinating (b) unforgettable
ADVERSITY to discourage us. crumbling ruins of a proud
(c) beautiful (d) sparkling
(a) poverty civilisation strewn like a vast
(b) darkness heap of FUTILITY. 37. The PACT has been in effect for
(c) time of trouble (a) irrelevance (b) absurdity twenty years.
(d) unfriendly criticism (c) pointlessness (d) downtrodden (a) treaty (b) monarchy
(c) lease (d) trend
16. He is very OBLIGING by 27. Mark Antony’s EULOGY of
nature. Caesar is finely recorded by 38. He had a reputation of being a
(a) helpful (b) nice Shakespeare in his play. PRUDENT businessman.
(c) thankful (d) compelling (a) prayer (b) honour (a) skilful (b) wealthy
(c) praise (d) denunciation (c) careful (d) dishonest
 39. There was a signpost where the 49. The story is too fantastic to be 59. He was FIRED for negligence on
two paths CONVERGE. CREDIBLE. duty.
(a) separate (b) intersect (a) believable (b) false (a) relieved of his job (b) scolded
(c) merge (d) diverge (c) readable (d) praiseworthy (c) rebuked (d) attacked
40. The violence erupted because of 50. Catching snakes can be
the ZEALOT. HAZARDOUS for people
untrained in the art.
2016 (I)
(a) enthusiastic (b) brave
(a) tricky (b) harmful 60. Suddenly there was a bright
(c) timid (d) fanatic
(c) difficult (d) dangerous flash, followed by a
DEAFENING explosion.
2014 (II) (a) dangerous (b) terrifying
41. We should always try to
2015 (I) (c) mild (d) very loud
maintain and promote 51. Democracy is not the 61. He showed EXEMPLARY
communal AMITY. standardising of everyone so as courage during the crisis.
(a) bondage (b) contention to OBLITERATE all peculiarity. (a) usual (b) durable
(c) friendship (d) understanding (a) demolish (b) extinguish (c) commendable (d) some
(c) erase (d) change
42. Many species of animals have 62. When the new teacher entered
become EXTINCT during the
52. Divine grace is truly the classroom, he found the
INEFFABLE.
last hundred years. pupils RESTIVE.
(a) describable (b) spiritual
(a) aggressive (b) non-existent (a) at rest (b) idle
(c) indescribable (d) nameless
(c) scattered (d) feeble (c) quiet (d) impatient
53. The convocation address was
43. True religion does not require very EDIFYING. 63. There is no DEARTH of talent
one to PROSELYTISE through (a) tedious
in this country.
guile or force. (a) scarcity (b) availability
(b) in need of editing
(a) translate (b) hypnotise (c) plenty (d) absence
(c) instructive
(c) attack (d) convert 64. The servants RETIRED to their
(d) exciting
44. That the plan is both inhuman quarters.
and PREPOSTEROUS needs no (a) entered (b) went away
further proof.
2015 (II) (c) ran away (d) mobilised
(a) heartless (b) impractical 54. Many of his acquaintances avoid
him because he is so
65. The navy gave TACTICAL
(c) absurd (d) abnormal support to marines.
GARRULOUS.
45. The attitude of the Western (a) unreasonable (b) talkative (a) sensitive (b) strategic
countries towards the (c) quarrelsome (d) proud (c) immediate (d) expert
third-world countries is rather 66. A genius tends to DEVIATE
CALLOUS to say the least. 55. He bore the pain with great
FORTITUDE. from the routine way of
(a) passive (b) unkind thinking.
(c) cursed (d) unfeeling (a) resignation (b) defiance
(c) indifference (d) forbearance (a) dispute (b) disagree
46. Whatever the VERDICT of (c) distinguish (d) different
history may be, Chaplin will 56. He gave his TACIT approval to
the proposition. 67. He was greatly DEBILITATED
occupy a unique place in its by an attack of influenza.
pages. (a) full (b) loud
(c) clean (d) implied (a) depressed (b) weakened
(a) judgement (b) voice
(c) worried (d) defeated
(c) outcome (d) prediction 57. In spite of hard work, the
farmers could only get a 68. His efforts at helping the poor
47. He CORROBORATED the are LAUDABLE.
MEAGRE yield.
statement of his brother. (a) welcome (b) sincere
(a) satisfactory (b) scanty
(a) confirmed (b) disproved
(c) plenty (d) normal (c) good (d) praiseworthy
(c) condemned (d) seconded
58. He was EXHILARATED at the 69. His conduct brought him
48. Whatever opinion he gives is outcome of the election results. REPROACH from quarters.
SANE. (a) satisfied (b) surprised (a) rebuke (b) sympathy
(a) rational (b) obscure (c) disappointed (d) overjoyed (c) indifference (d) remorse
(c) wild (d) arrogant
ANSWERS
Check Your Vocabulary
1 d 2 b 3 a 4 b 5 d 6 a 7 c 8 b 9 d 10 c
11 d 12 c 13 b 14 a 15 c 16 a 17 a 18 b 19 b 20 a
21 c 22 d 23 a 24 c 25 c 26 b 27 a 28 a 29 c 30 b
31 c 32 c 33 b 34 d 35 d 36 b 37 a 38 a 39 d 40 c
41 a 42 d 43 c 44 a 45 a 46 a 47 c 48 d 49 a 50 a
51 c 52 b 53 d 54 c 55 b 56 b 57 a 58 b 59 d 60 b
61 b 62 a 63 c 64 a 65 c 66 d 67 b 68 a 69 c 70 a
71 b 72 b 73 a 74 a 75 b 76 a 77 d 78 b 79 d 80 a
81 b 82 d 83 b 84 d 85 d 86 c 87 a 88 a 89 c 90 c
91 d 92 c 93 d 94 b 95 a 96 b 97 a 98 a 99 c 100 a

Questions from NDA/NA Exam (2012-16)

1 a 2 b 3 d 4 c 5 c 6 d 7 b 8 b 9 d 10 c
11 d 12 b 13 c 14 c 15 c 16 a 17 a 18 a 19 b 20 b
21 c 22 b 23 a 24 c 25 b 26 c 27 c 28 b 29 a 30 c
31 b 32 b 33 c 34 b 35 a 36 d 37 a 38 c 39 b 40 d
41 c 42 b 43 d 44 c 45 d 46 a 47 a 48 a 49 a 50 d
51 c 52 c 53 c 54 b 55 d 56 d 57 b 58 d 59 a 60 d
61 c 62 d 63 a 64 b 65 b 66 d 67 b 68 d 69 a

EXPLANATIONS
Check Your Vocabulary
1. (d) Modest means to be free of 7. (c) Ramble means move aimlessly 14. (a) To utter means to ‘express’ in
conceit or pretension. So, ‘humble’ from place to place. So, ‘wander’ is words.
is its synonym. its synonym. 15. (c) Fearless means lacking fear or
2. (b) Custom means long established 8. (b) Beneficial means causing benefit. ‘brave’.
practice. So, ‘habit’ is its synonym. So, ‘advantageous’ is its synonym. 16. (a) Negligible means very small or
3. (a) Prolong means lengthen in time. 9. (d) Flare means a fire. So, ‘blaze’ is unimportant. So, ‘insignificant’ is its
So, ‘extend’ is its synonym. its synonym. synonym.
4. (b) Hustle means to quickly move. 10. (c) Negligent means marked by 17. (a) Placid means free of disturbance.
So, ‘hurry’ is its synonym. neglect. So, ‘careless’ is its synonym. So, ‘calm’ is its synonym.
5. (d) Solemn means very serious or 11. (d) Aloof means not friendly. So, 18. (b) A rake is a dissolute person. So,
formal in manner, behaviour or ‘reserved’ is its synonym. ‘scoundrel’ is its synonym.
expression. So, ‘serious’ is its 12. (c) One meaning of Resolve is to 19. (b) Dupe means deceive. So, ‘trick’ is
synonym. ‘decide’. its synonym.
6. (a) Imply means express indirectly. 13. (b) To congregate means to ‘gather’ 20. (a) Stigma means a mark of shame
So, ‘suggest’ is its synonym. in a group. or discredit. So, ‘stain’ is its synonym.
21. (c) Reside means occupy a place as 43. (c) Sharp means ‘precisely or 63. (c) Respond and ‘answer’ have the
one’s home. So, ‘dwell’ is its exactly’. So, both are synonyms of same meaning which means ‘say
synonym. each other. something in reply’.
22. (d) Covetous means wanting to 44. (a) Condemn means ‘to express 64. (a) Mundane and ‘worldly’ both
have something too much. So, complete disapproval of or censure’. means the same, i.e. ‘of this earthly
‘greedy’ is its synonym. So, condemn and censure are world rather than a heavenly or
23. (a) Abide means accept or bear synonyms of each other. spiritual one’.
someone or something bad, 45. (a) Reluctant means unwilling and 65. (c) Dangerous and ‘perilous’ both
unpleasant etc. So, ‘endure’ is its hesitant. So, ‘disinclined’ is its have same meaning, i.e. ‘likely to
synonym. synonym. cause harm or injury’.
24. (c) Shrewd means having or showing 46. (a) Intricate is ‘complicated’. 66. (d) Unlimited and ‘infinite’ both
sharp powers of judgement. So, 47. (c) Penury is the state of being very means the same, i.e. ‘without any
‘astute’ is its synonym. poor. So, ‘poverty’ is its synonym. limit’.
25. (c) Fetter means restrain. So, 48. (d) Expostulate means to express 67. (b) Dictator and ‘autocrat’ both
‘hamper’ is its synonym. strong disapproval or disagreement. means the same, i.e. ‘a ruler with
26. (b) Flagrant means too bad to be Hence, ‘argue’ is its synonym. total power over a country’.
ignored. So, ‘glaring’ is its synonym. 49. (a) Absurd means extremely silly, 68. (a) Annual and ‘yearly’ have the
27. (a) Mitigate means to make less foolish or unreasonable. So, ‘senseless’ same meaning as ‘occurring once
severe or painful. So, ‘relieve’ is its is its synonym. every year’.
synonym. 50. (a) Philanthropy is the practice of 69. (c) Fanatic and ‘bigot’ both means
28. (a) Rail means ‘scold’ in harsh, giving money and time to help make the same, i.e. ‘a person filled with
abusive language. life better for other people. So, excessive zeal’.
29. (c) Meld means merge. So, ‘blend’ is ‘generosity’ is its synonym. 70. (a) Trivial and ‘unimportant’ have
its synonym. 51. (c) Roughed out is a phrasal verb the same meaning which means ‘of
means ‘to draw a rough draft’. So, little value or importance’.
30. (b) Rally means ‘muster’ for a
common purpose. ‘drew quick plan’ is its synonym. 71. (b) Sterling means (of a person or
52. (b) Abyss means ‘a deep pit’. So, their work or qualities) excellent or
31. (c) Abject means extremely bad or valuable. So, ‘outstanding’ is its
severe. So, ‘deplorable’ is its options, ‘sea’ will be its synonym.
synonym.
synonym. 53. (d) Audacity means the rashness or
brashness to do something. So, 72. (b) Corporal means of or relating to
32. (c) Bespoke means custom made; the body. So, ‘physical’ is its
‘tailored’ also means custom-made. ‘arrogance’ is its synonym.
synonym.
33. (b) Diffident means lacking in 54. (c) Frenetic means wildly excited or
active. So, ‘excited’ is its synonym. 73. (a) Mitigate means to make less
confidence. So, ‘shy’ is its synonym. severe or painful. So, ‘lessen’ is its
34. (d) Proffer means put something 55. (b) Copious means abundant or synonym.
forward for acceptance. So, ‘tender’ is plentiful. So, ‘exhaustive’ is its
synonym. 74. (a) Idiosyncrasies means an unusual
its synonym. way in which a particular person
35. (d) Mordant means cruel and 56. (b) Impervious means not able to be behaves or thinks. So, ‘peculiar
criticising in a humorous way. So, influenced, hurt or damaged. So, habits’ is its synonym.
‘caustic’ is its synonym. ‘unaffacted’ is its synonym.
75. (b) Perfunctory and ‘superficial’ both
36. (b) Churlish means impolite. So, 57. (a) ‘Elicit’ and ‘Evoke’ mean the mean the same, i.e. ‘carried out
‘boorish’ is its synonym. same i.e. ‘to cause a particular without real interest, feeling or
response to happen’. effort’.
37. (a) Antediluvian means very old or
old-fashioned. So, ‘antiquated’ is its 58. (b) Lucrative and ‘profitable’ both 76. (a) Grave means making you feel
synonym. mean the same, i.e. ‘attractive and worried so, ‘serious’ is its synonym.
full of profit’.
38. (a) Picayune means of little value or 77. (d) Empirically means based on
significance. So, ‘petty’ is its 59. (d) Exhaustive and ‘thorough’ both observation or experience, not on
synonym. have same meaning as ‘fully theory. So, ‘by observation and
comprehensive’. experiment’ is its synonym.
39. (d) Smite means to ‘strike’ heavily
especially with the hand. 60. (b) Laying up and ‘accumulating’ 78. (b) Ordnance refers to ‘arms and
both have same meaning, i.e. ‘build ammunition’, which is its synonym.
40. (c) Winnow means to get rid of, like up’.
‘weed’. 79. (d) Sycophant means ‘a person who
61. (b) Might and ‘strength’ both mean praises powerful people in order to
41. (a) Exploit means to make full use of the same, i.e. ‘impressive power’.
and derive benefit from a resource. get their approval’. So, ‘flatterer’ is its
So, ‘utilise’ is its synonym. 62. (a) Dwells and ‘lives’ have the same synonym.
meaning which means ‘to live’. 80. (a) Veracity means ‘truth’, which is
42. (d) Detrimental means ‘harmful’.
its synonym.
81. (b) Authentic means conforming to 87. (a) Interfere means to enter into the something unpleasant has happened.
fact and therefore worthy of trust, concerns of others. So, ‘meddle’ is its So, ‘beneficial’ is its synonym.
reliance or belief. So, ‘genuine’ is its synonym. 94. (b) Evoked means to cause a
synonym. 88. (a) Tedious means boring and too particular reaction or response to
82. (d) Boast means to say (something slow or long. So, ‘tiresome’ is its happen. So, ‘called for’ is its synonym.
about oneself ) in a proud or synonym. 95. (a) Flimsy is not likely to be true or
self-admiring way. So, ‘brag’ is its 89. (c) Takes after means to look the to be believed. So, ‘insubstantial’ is
synonym. same as or similar. So, ‘resembles’ is its synonym.
83. (b) Fictitious means ‘imaginary’. its synonym. 96. (b) Indigent means ‘very poor’.
84. (d) Mass murder means the savage 90. (c) Ill-favoured is abstract. So, 97. (a) Abate is ‘to decrease in strength’.
and excessive killing of many people. short-tempered is its correct So, ‘reduced’ is its synonym.
So, ‘genocide’ is its synonym. synonym.
98. (a) Implacable means ‘unable to be
85. (d) Executioners means one who 91. (d) Soporific means ‘tending to appeased or placated’. So, ‘relentless’
puts to death. So, ‘those who inflict induce drowsiness or sleep’. So, ‘sleep is its synonym.
capital punishment’ is its synonym. inducing’ is its synonym.
99. (c) Insolent means showing a rude
86. (c) Maiden speech means the first 92. (c) Allegiance means ‘loyalty or and arrogant lack of respect. So,
speech given by a newly elected commitment to a superior or to a ‘insulting’ is its synonym.
member of a Legislature or group or course’.
Parliament so, ‘first speech’ is its 100. (a) Pragmatic is ‘based on practical
93. (d) Salutary means having a good or judgements rather than principles’.
synonym. helpful result especially after So, ‘practical’ is its synonym.

Questions from NDA/NA Exam (2012-2016)

1. (a) Ingenuous means frank. The 10. (c) Heritage means ‘things we have 20. (b) Indefatigable and ‘tireless’ both
word ‘candid’ too means ‘frank’. So, from the past’. So, option (c) is the mean ‘a person who is not weary’.
it is the right synonym. correct synonym. So, they both are synonyms.
2. (b) Enormity means very great in 11. (d) Momentous means very big or 21. (c) Dignity and ‘honour’ mean ‘the
size’. So, ‘vastness’ is the right great and ‘enormous’ means the quality of being worthy of respect’.
synonym as it means the same. same. So, they both are synonyms. So, they both are synonyms.
3. (d) Exaggeration is ‘making 12. (b) Deteriorated means became 22. (b) Singular and ‘outstanding’ both
something seem larger, more worse, so ‘grew worse’ is the mean ‘extremely good’. So, they both
important, better or worse than it synonym. are synonyms.
really is’. Its synonym is 23. (a) Age means ‘a period of time’ and
‘amplification’. 13. (c) Insipid means ‘not exciting or
‘era’ means the same. So, they both
boring,’ so ‘dull’ will be the perfect
4. (c) Insolvent means ‘not having are synonyms.
enough money to pay debts, buy synonym as it means the same.
24. (c) Industrious means ‘hardworking’
goods’. Its synonym is ‘bankrupt’ as 14. (c) Scarcity means not enough and and ‘diligent’ means the same. So,
it means the same. ‘insufficiency’ means the same, so they both are similar words.
5. (c) Induces means ‘to persuade they are synonyms.
25. (b) Wholesome and ‘nourishing’
someone to do something’. So, the 15. (c) Adversity means ‘difficulty or both are synonyms as they mean
answer choice is obvious. problem’, so ‘time of trouble’ could ‘healthy food’.
6. (d) Authentic means ‘true or real’. be the synonym of it.
26. (c) Futility and ‘pointlessness’ both
Among the options, ‘genuine’ is the 16. (a) Obliging means ‘helpful are similar words as they mean
obvious synonym. behaviour’, so ‘helpful’ is the perfect ‘uselessness’.
7. (b) ‘Not cut out to be something’ is synonym of it. 27. (c) Eulogy means ‘to appreciate
an idiomatic expression that means 17. (a) Running into means ‘to meet somebody’, that means ‘praise’ is the
not to be the right type of person someone by chance’. So, they both synonym of eulogy.
for something. Here, ‘suited’ is the
are synonyms. 28. (b) Unique and ‘exceptional’ both
right synonym.
18. (a) Charismatic means very mean unusual. So, they both are
8. (b) Reprimanded means to express synonyms.
someone your strong official attractive and ‘exceptionally
disapproval of them. So, here correct fascinating’ has the same meaning. 29. (a) Intervention and ‘interference’
synonym would be option (b) So, they both are synonyms. both mean ‘unwanted involvement’.
‘scolded severely’. 19. (b) Engrossed means ‘getting So, they both are synonyms.
9. (d) The contextual meaning of the involved in something with full 30. (c) Discern and ‘determine’ both
word apprehend, here is ‘fear’. So, attention’, so ‘absorbed’ will be the mean ‘to decide’. So, they both are
option (d) is the correct synonym. synonym as it means the same. synonyms.
31. (b) Rancour and ‘hatred’ both 43. (d) Proselytise directly implies ‘to 56. (d) Tacit and ‘implied’ are synonyms
mean ‘bitterness or resentfulness’. convert or attempt to convert from one to each other as both mean ‘not
So, they both are synonyms. religion to another’. So, ‘convert’ is its understood’.
32. (b) Isolated means ‘to separate synonym. 57. (b) Meagre and ‘scanty’ both have a
somebody physically or socially 44. (c) ‘Preposterous’ means unreasonable meaning ‘less in amount’. So, these
from other people or things’. and ‘absurd’ is the nearest in the are synonyms.
Hence, option (b) is correct. meaning of the word, fitting best to 58. (d) Exhilarated and ‘overjoyed’ are
33. (c) Columns means tall, solid, the statement. the similar words as both have same
vertical post and ‘pillars’ has 45. (d) Callous means ‘not caring about meaning, i.e. ‘extremely happy.’
exactly the same meaning. So, other people’s feelings or suffering’. 59. (a) Fired means ‘relieved of his job’.
they both are synonyms. The best synonym to the word is Hence, option (a) is correct.
34. (b) Block and ‘obstruct’ mean ‘to ‘unfeeling’ which means ‘lacking
sensitivity towards others’. 60. (d) Deafening means ‘very loud’.
stop from seeing’. So, they both
are synonyms. 46. (a) Verdict means a formal answer or 61. (c) Exemplary means very good and
decision of the jury given to the court. suitable to be copied by others.
35. (a) Abruptly and ‘suddenly’ mean ‘Commendable’ means ‘praise worthy’,
‘unexpectedly’ and ‘changing ‘Judgement’ also means ‘the decision of
a court’. So, it is the nearest in the therefore, option (c) is its synonym.
without knowledge’. So, they
both are synonyms. meaning of the word verdict. 62. (d) Restive means ‘unable to stay still
47. (a) Corroborated means ‘to provide or being controlled’. Therefore,
36. (d) Scintillating and ‘sparkling’ option (d) ‘impatient’ is its synonym.
mean ‘twinkling and shining evidence to support a statement’. So,
brightly’. So, they both are ‘confirmed’ is the correct answer among 63. (a) Dearth means ‘a lack or scarcity
synonyms. the given options. of something’. Therefore, option (a)
48. (a) ‘Rational’ means ‘logical or sane’ is is its synonym.
37. (a) Pact and ‘treaty’ both mean ‘a
formal agreement’. So, they both the appropriate answer among the 64. (b) Retired means ‘to go to a place’.
are synonyms. given options. According to the context of the
49. (a) Credible directly relates to sentence option (b) ‘went away’ is
38. (c) Prudent and ‘careful’ both most similar in meaning to the word
mean ‘showing care and thought ‘believable or convincing’. So,
‘believable’ is the appropriate answer. ‘retired’.
for the future’. So, they both are
synonyms. 50. (d) Hazardous means ‘that can be 65. (b) Tactical means ‘careful planning
dangerous or cause damage’. in order to achieve something’.
39. (b) Converge and ‘intersect’ both Therefore, option (b) ‘strategic’ is
mean ‘to move towards each 51. (c) Erase is most suitable synonym most similar in meaning to the word
other and meet at a point’. So, here in the context of the sentence as tactical.
they both are synonyms. ‘obliterate’ and ‘erase’ both mean ‘wipe
out’. 66. (d) Deviate means ‘to be different
40. (d) Zealot and ‘fanatic’ both from the rest’. Therefore, option (d)
mean ‘a person who is extremely 52. (c) Here, ineffable means ‘too great to ‘different’ is its synonym.
enthusiastic about something’. So, be expressed in words’. Hence, option
they both are synonyms. (c) indescribable is correct. 67. (b) Debilitated means ‘to weaken as
a result of an illness’. Therefore,
41. (c) ‘Amity’ is the exact and 53. (c) ‘Instructive’ as well as edifying both option (b) ‘weakened’ is most similar
appropriate synonym of mean ‘providing intellectual instruction’. to the word ‘debilitate’.
‘friendship’. 54. (b) Garrulous as well as ‘talkative’ 68. (d) Laudable means ‘worth
42. (b) ‘Extinct’ and ‘Non-existent’ means ‘one who talks much’. So, both appreciation’. Therefore, ‘praiseworthy’
both mean ‘having no living are synonyms. is its correct synonym.
members’ (like dinosaurs) which 55. (d) Fortitude and ‘forbearance’ are
is exactly what the statement is 69. (a) Reproach means ‘expressing
synonyms as both mean ‘mental blame or criticism’. Therefore, option
talking about. So, ‘non-existent’ is strength and courage to face danger,
its synonym. (a) ‘rebuke’ is its synonym.
pain etc’.