Question

Choose the word nearest in meaning to the word given in capital letters: PERNICIOUS

• A. injurious
• B. graceful
• C. useful
• D. delightful

Hint:

Pay attention to word roots and prefixes.
The suffix ``-cious'' often forms adjectives, and the root associated with ``nic-'' or ``noc-'' (as in noxious, innocent) relates to harm or injury.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understand the word.
"Pernicious" originates from the Latin "perniciosus" meaning destructive or fatal. It describes something that has a harmful or deadly effect, often in a subtle or gradual way.
Step 2: Evaluate the options.
"Graceful" means elegant; "useful" means beneficial; "delightful" means pleasant -- all are opposite in meaning.
Step 3: Choose the synonym.
"Injurious" means causing injury or harm, which most closely mirrors the meaning of pernicious. \[ \boxed{\text{injurious}} \]