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Question

Directions: In the following sentence, out of the given alternatives choose the one which best expresses the meaning of the underlined word:

His performance in the office is quite superficial.

The correct answer is

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:

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

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Important Questions from Phrase Replacement

  1. Directions: Which of the following phrases at 1, 2, 3, and 4 given below should replace the phrase given in bold in the following sentence to make the sentence grammatically meaningful and correct. If the sentence is 'correct' as it is and 'NO correction required' mark 5 as the answer.

    If the evidence bear out the charge, he may be sentenced to death.

  2. Select the most appropriate word to substitute the underlined word of the given sentence. If no substitution is required, select ‘No improvement’.

    There is a great degrade in value s in modern age.

  3. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the underlined segment in the given sentence.

    No effort has been made by the Indian cricket team to cash off on its vibrant image in the World Cup. 

  4. Directions: Select the most appropriate option to substitute the underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no need to substitute it, select ‘No improvement’.

    As many as I care for her, I still have to disagree with her on this topic.

  5. Directions: Select the most appropriate option to substitute the underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no need to substitute it, select ‘No improvement’.

    Prithvi likes baseball as long as she likes cricket.

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