Question

The word 'flatter' used in the above passage can be replaced by ___________.

• A. compliment
• B. criticise
• C. censure
• D. condemn

Answer 1

The correct option is A compliment

The word, 'flatter' means 'lavishly praise and compliment (someone), often insincerely and with the aim of furthering one's own interests'. Hence, the word, 'compliment' can replace the word, 'flatter' in the given passage. Option A is correct.

The word, 'criticise' means 'indicate the faults of (someone or something) in a disapproving way'. The word 'censure' means 'express severe disapproval of (someone or something)'. The word, 'condemn' means the same as 'censure'. These three words have a similar meaning, which is the opposite of the meaning of the word, 'flatter'. Hence, options B, C and D are incorrect.