Understanding the Question:
This question asks for the synonym of the word "Diligent," which is a common adjective used to describe a person's character and work habits. Understanding this word is essential for accurately describing high-quality effort and persistence in both academic and professional settings.
Key Formulas and approach:
The approach used is "Characteristic Decomposition":
1. Break down the word "Diligent" into its core traits. It involves two parts: effort and precision.
2. Search the options for a word or phrase that covers both these components.
3. Eliminate options that only focus on speed or that represent negative character traits.
Detailed Explanation:
"Diligent" describes a person who shows constant and earnest effort to accomplish a task. It implies that the person doesn't just work hard, but they also take great care to ensure the work is done correctly and thoroughly.
Option (B) Careful and hardworking: This is the correct choice because it addresses both elements of diligence. A diligent student doesn't just finish the assignment (hardworking); they also double-check it for mistakes (careful).
Option (A) Lazy: This is the primary antonym of diligent. A lazy person lacks both the effort and the care required for diligence.
Option (C) Fast: While a diligent person might eventually become fast at a task, speed is not a requirement. One can be fast but very sloppy, which is the opposite of being diligent.
Option (D) Uncertain: This refers to a lack of confidence or knowledge and does not describe a person's work ethic.
Final Answer:
The most accurate synonym for Diligent is "Careful and hardworking," making option (B) the correct choice.