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Question

Directions: Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.

shrewd

This question was previously asked in
SSC Stenographer 2019 Previous Year Paper (24-Dec-2020) (Shift 2)
The correct answer is

judicious

Understanding the Word Shrewd

The question asks us to find the most appropriate synonym for the word "shrewd". A synonym is a word or phrase that means exactly or nearly the same as another word or phrase in the same language.

Let's understand the meaning of "shrewd".

  • Shrewd: Having or showing sharp powers of judgment; astute. Someone shrewd is good at understanding situations and making clever decisions that benefit them, especially in business or practical matters.

Analyzing the Options

Now, let's look at the given options and their meanings to find the best match for "shrewd".

  1. senseless: Lacking sense, meaning, or purpose; foolish. This is the opposite of having sharp judgment.
  2. judicious: Having, showing, or done with good judgment or sense. This means being wise and sensible in making decisions.
  3. frivolous: Not having any serious purpose or value; silly and trivial. This relates to lack of seriousness, not necessarily lack of judgment.
  4. unthinking: Without thought or consideration; careless. This describes actions done without careful thought, which is contrary to being shrewd.

Identifying the Correct Synonym for Shrewd

Comparing the meaning of "shrewd" with the options:

  • "Senseless" means foolish, which is the opposite of shrewd.
  • "Judicious" means using good judgment and sense. This meaning is very close to "shrewd", which involves sharp powers of judgment.
  • "Frivolous" means silly or not serious, which is different from having good judgment.
  • "Unthinking" means careless or without thought, which is the opposite of the careful thought involved in being shrewd.

The word that is closest in meaning to "shrewd" is "judicious" because both terms describe someone who uses good sense and sharp judgment in practical matters or decision-making.

Meaning Comparison Table

Word Meaning Relation to Shrewd
Shrewd Sharp judgment, astute, clever in practical affairs Original word
Senseless Foolish, without sense Opposite
Judicious Using good judgment, sensible, wise Synonym (Closest)
Frivolous Silly, not serious Different meaning
Unthinking Careless, without thought Opposite

Conclusion

Based on the analysis of the meanings, "judicious" is the most appropriate synonym for "shrewd". Both words describe someone who is good at making sensible and smart decisions.

Revision Table: Shrewd Synonym

Word Definition Example Usage
Shrewd Having or showing sharp powers of judgment; astute. She made a shrewd investment decision.
Judicious Having, showing, or done with good judgment or sense. It was a judicious move to save money for retirement.
Senseless Lacking sense or meaning; foolish. Quitting his job without a plan was a senseless act.
Frivolous Not having any serious purpose or value. She spent her money on frivolous things like toys.
Unthinking Without thought or consideration; careless. His unthinking remark hurt her feelings.

Additional Information: Vocabulary Building

Understanding synonyms and antonyms is a key part of building a strong vocabulary. When you learn a new word like "shrewd", try to find its synonyms and antonyms. This helps you understand the nuances of meaning and use the word correctly in different contexts.

  • Synonyms for Shrewd: astute, sharp, clever, sagacious, discerning, wise, knowing.
  • Antonyms for Shrewd: foolish, stupid, senseless, naive, gullible, unthinking, imprudent.

Knowing related words like "judicious" for "shrewd" improves your ability to express ideas more precisely and effectively.

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