Question

Choose the word nearest in meaning to the word given in capital letters: PERNICIOUS

• A. injurious
• B. graceful
• C. useful
• D. delightful

Hint:

Pay attention to word roots and prefixes.
The suffix ``-cious'' often forms adjectives, and the root associated with ``nic-'' or ``noc-'' (as in noxious, innocent) relates to harm or injury.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The goal is to identify the synonym (word nearest in meaning) of the capitalized word ``PERNICIOUS''.

Step 2: Key Concepts and Vocabulary Definitions:
The word ``PERNICIOUS'' is an adjective derived from the Latin ``perniciosus'' (meaning destructive), which comes from ``per-'' (thoroughly) and ``nex'' (death or ruin).
It describes something that has a harmful, damaging, or destructive effect, especially in a gradual, subtle, or hidden way.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:

• Option (A) - injurious: This means causing or likely to cause damage or harm. This matches the meaning of ``pernicious'' closely, as both describe things that cause injury or harm.

• Option (B) - graceful: This means showing elegance or beauty in movement or form. This is completely unrelated to harm.

• Option (C) - useful: This means able to be used for a practical purpose; beneficial. This is an antonym of pernicious.

• Option (D) - delightful: This means causing great pleasure. This is another highly positive word and the opposite of pernicious.


Step 4: Final Answer:
Option (A) is the word nearest in meaning to ``PERNICIOUS''.