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Question

Select the most appropriate synonym of the underlined word in the given sentence.

The young fellow was innocent and without guile.

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

Deceit

Understanding Vocabulary: Finding the Synonym for Guile

The question asks us to select the most appropriate synonym for the underlined word "guile" in the sentence: "The young fellow was innocent and without guile."

To find the correct synonym, we first need to understand the meaning of the word "guile" within the context of the sentence.

Defining Guile

The word "guile" refers to cunning, sly, or artful deception. Someone who uses guile is tricky or crafty, often using dishonest methods to achieve their goals. The sentence describes the young fellow as "innocent and without guile". This suggests that guile is something negative or dishonest that an innocent person would not possess.

Analyzing the Options for Guile Synonym

Let's examine each option provided:

  • Morality: This refers to principles concerning right and wrong behavior. Being "without morality" would mean being immoral, which is different from being without guile. An innocent person typically has morality.
  • Pride: This is a feeling of deep pleasure or satisfaction. While excessive pride can be negative, it is not directly related to cunning or deception.
  • Greed: This is an intense and selfish desire for wealth, power, or food. Greed describes a motivation, not necessarily the method (like trickery or deception) used to satisfy it.
  • Deceit: This means the action or practice of deceiving someone by concealing or misrepresenting the truth. This aligns very closely with the meaning of guile, which involves using cunning and trickery to mislead or deceive.

Selecting the Best Synonym

Considering the definition of "guile" as cunning deception and the context of the sentence ("innocent and without guile"), the option that most closely matches this meaning is "Deceit". Someone who is without guile is honest and does not practice deceit.

Summary of Options

Option Meaning Is it a Synonym for Guile?
Morality Principles of right and wrong behavior. No
Pride Feeling of self-satisfaction or importance. No
Greed Intense selfish desire. No
Deceit The action of deceiving or misleading someone. Yes

Based on the analysis, "Deceit" is the most appropriate synonym for "guile".

Revision Table: Key Vocabulary Concepts

Word Definition Example Sentence
Guile Sly or cunning intelligence; artful deception. He used his guile to trick his opponents.
Innocent Not guilty of a crime or offense; having or showing no moral wrongdoing. The jury found the suspect innocent.
Deceit The action or practice of deceiving someone by concealing or misrepresenting the truth. His deceit was discovered when the truth came out.

Additional Information: Expanding Vocabulary Skills

Understanding synonyms is crucial for improving vocabulary and comprehension. When you encounter an unfamiliar word:

  • Look at the context of the sentence to guess its meaning.
  • Check the dictionary for its definition and synonyms.
  • Practice using the word in your own sentences.
  • Learn related words (antonyms, different forms).

Regular practice with vocabulary questions helps build a stronger command of the English language, which is beneficial for exams and everyday communication.

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