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Question

Select the most appropriate synonym of the underlined word.

Marcella seemed morose and downcast when she refused to have dinner.

This question was previously asked in
SSC CGL 2022 Tier-II (Paper 2 JSO) Previous Year Paper (04-Mar-2023)
The correct answer is Gloomy

Understanding the Meaning of Morose

The question asks us to find the most appropriate synonym for the underlined word "morose" in the sentence: "Marcella seemed morose and downcast when she refused to have dinner."

To find the synonym, we need to understand the meaning of the word "morose" in this context. The sentence also uses the word "downcast", which typically means feeling sad, discouraged, or dejected. The combination of "morose" and "downcast" suggests a negative emotional state.

The word morose means ill-tempered and sullen, or having a gloomy or dismal disposition. Someone who is morose is typically withdrawn and unhappy.

Analyzing the Options for Synonym of Morose

Let's look at the given options and see which one best matches the meaning of morose:

  • Jocund: This word means cheerful and lighthearted. This is the opposite of morose.
  • Excited: This means feeling or showing eagerness, enthusiasm, or liveliness. This is also very different from morose.
  • Gloomy: This word means feeling or looking dark or dismal; depressed or pessimistic. This meaning aligns closely with morose and downcast.
  • Liberal: This word has several meanings, including generous, open to new ideas, or relating to political freedom. None of these meanings are related to the emotional state described by morose.

Identifying the Correct Synonym

Comparing the meaning of morose (ill-tempered, sullen, gloomy) with the options, "Gloomy" is the word that is closest in meaning and fits the context of the sentence where Marcella is described as both morose and downcast.

Conclusion on Synonym of Morose

Based on the analysis, the most appropriate synonym for morose among the given options is "Gloomy".

Revision Table: Understanding Vocabulary

Word Meaning Relation to 'Morose'
Morose Ill-tempered and sullen; gloomy The word we are defining
Jocund Cheerful and lighthearted Antonym
Excited Enthusiastic, lively Unrelated
Gloomy Dark, dismal, depressed Synonym
Liberal Generous, open-minded, political Unrelated

Additional Information: Building English Vocabulary

Learning synonyms and antonyms is a great way to build your English vocabulary. When you encounter an unfamiliar word like morose, look it up and try to use it in your own sentences. Also, paying attention to context, like the word "downcast" in the original sentence, can help you guess the meaning of new words.

Synonyms are words that have similar meanings, while antonyms have opposite meanings. Understanding these relationships helps you express yourself more precisely and understand texts better.

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