Directions: In the following sentence, out of the given alternatives choose the one which best expresses the meaning of the underlined word:
shallow
Superficial Performance Meaning and Synonym
The question asks us to find the best word that expresses the meaning of the underlined word 'superficial' in the sentence: "His performance in the office is quite superficial." We need to understand what 'superficial' means in this context and compare it with the given options.
Understanding 'Superficial' Performance
The word 'superficial' generally means appearing to be true or real only until examined more closely; or concerned with or understanding only the outward appearance and not the depth or substance of something. When referring to performance, 'superficial' implies that the performance lacks depth, thoroughness, or genuine quality. It might look acceptable on the surface but isn't substantial or deeply executed.
Analyze Options for 'Superficial'
Let's examine each option to see which one best matches the meaning of 'superficial' in the given sentence:
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Option 1: excellent
The word 'excellent' means extremely good or outstanding. This describes a high quality of performance, which is the opposite of a 'superficial' performance that lacks depth.
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Option 2: shallow
The word 'shallow' means lacking intellectual depth; not profound. When applied to performance, it means the performance is not deep, thorough, or insightful. This closely matches the meaning of 'superficial' in the context of office performance.
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Option 3: excessive
The word 'excessive' means more than is necessary, normal, or desirable. This refers to quantity or degree, not the depth or quality of the performance itself.
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Option 4: unnatural
The word 'unnatural' means absent or not resulting from natural causes; artificial or simulated. This relates to authenticity or naturalness, not the depth of the performance.
Conclusion on Superficial Synonym
Comparing the meanings, 'shallow' is the best synonym for 'superficial' when describing someone's performance as lacking depth and thoroughness. Therefore, a superficial performance is one that is shallow.
Important Questions from Phrase Replacement
- Select the option that will improve the underlined part of the given sentence. In case no improvement is needed, select 'No improvement required'.
The doors and windows will have painted by afternoon. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no need to substitute it, select ‘No substitution required’.
The authorities are assured the people that they will look into the matter.
Select the word segment that substitutes (replaces) the bracketed word segment correctly and completes the sentence meaningfully. Select the option 'no correction required' if the sentence is correct as given.
Some (animal activist are horrified at the suffering of) innocent animals.
Select the most appropriate option to substitute the underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no need to substitute it, No substitution required.
Not knowing the language and having no acquaintances in the city, he found it hard getting work.
Select the most appropriate option to substitute the underlined segment in the given sentence.
Gayatri informed one of the directors that she has sent the material for printing.
