Substitute one word for the italicised expression. The Bishop criticised the Government for its having no sympathy and an uncaring attitude to the homeless and the unemployed.
Understanding the Question: Substituting Uncaring Attitude
The question asks us to find a single word that can effectively replace the phrase "having no sympathy and an uncaring attitude". This phrase describes a lack of feeling, concern, or compassion for others, especially those who are suffering or in difficulty, like the homeless and the unemployed mentioned in the sentence.
We need to look at the given options and determine which word best captures this specific meaning of being unsympathetic and uncaring.
Analyzing the Options for Word Substitution
Let's examine each option to see how well it fits the meaning of "having no sympathy and an uncaring attitude":
- merciful: This word means showing mercy or compassion. It implies kindness and a willingness to forgive or spare someone from punishment or suffering. This is the opposite of having no sympathy or being uncaring. So, this is not the correct substitute word.
- callous: This word describes someone who shows or has an insensitive and cruel disregard for others. A callous person lacks sympathy and feels no pity or concern for the suffering of others. This meaning aligns very closely with "having no sympathy and an uncaring attitude".
- tender: This word means showing gentleness, kindness, or affection. It suggests a soft, sensitive, and caring nature. This is also the opposite of having no sympathy or being uncaring. So, this is not the correct substitute word.
- compassionate: This word means feeling or showing sympathy and concern for others who are suffering. A compassionate person is caring and understanding of others' pain. This is the opposite of having no sympathy or being uncaring. So, this is not the correct substitute word.
Identifying the Correct Substitute Word
Based on the analysis of the options, the word "callous" is the best substitute for the phrase "having no sympathy and an uncaring attitude". It accurately describes a lack of sensitivity and concern for others' suffering, which is the core meaning of the italicised expression.
| Word | Meaning | Fit with "No Sympathy & Uncaring"? |
|---|---|---|
| merciful | Showing mercy or compassion | No (Opposite) |
| callous | Insensitive and cruel disregard for others; lacking sympathy | Yes (Matches) |
| tender | Showing gentleness, kindness, affection | No (Opposite) |
| compassionate | Feeling or showing sympathy and concern for others | No (Opposite) |
Revision Table: Understanding Key Vocabulary
| Term | Definition related to feelings |
|---|---|
| Sympathy | Feelings of pity or sorrow for someone else's misfortune. |
| Attitude | A settled way of thinking or feeling about something. |
| Uncaring | Not displaying sympathy or concern for others. |
| Merciful | Showing compassion or kindness. |
| Callous | Showing insensitive and cruel disregard for others. |
| Tender | Showing gentleness and kindness. |
| Compassionate | Feeling or showing sympathy and concern for others' suffering. |
Additional Information: Synonyms and Antonyms for Callous
Understanding synonyms and antonyms can help broaden your vocabulary. For the word "callous":
- Synonyms: insensitive, hard-hearted, unfeeling, cruel, heartless, cold, unsympathetic, indifferent.
- Antonyms: sensitive, compassionate, sympathetic, tender, kind, merciful, caring, feeling.
The phrase "having no sympathy and an uncaring attitude" clearly points towards the synonyms of "callous" and away from its antonyms, reinforcing that "callous" is the correct substitute word.
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