Choose the word that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word:
I am not convinced of his duplicity in this matter.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → deceit
Duplicity means deceitful behaviour (saying one thing and doing another), double-dealing. The speaker is not sure that the person has acted dishonestly in this matter. Its synonym is deceit.
Example: The spy's duplicity was discovered after many years.
| Word | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| (1) deceit (answer) | dishonest behaviour that makes others believe something false (both words describe dishonest, double-faced dealing) | The partnership broke up because of his deceit. |
| (2) usefulness | the quality of being helpful or of practical use (it has no link with dishonesty) | Nobody doubts the usefulness of a dictionary. |
| (3) emotion | a strong feeling such as joy, anger or fear | His voice shook with emotion during the farewell speech. |
| (4) wisdom | good judgement that comes from knowledge and experience (a positive quality unlike duplicity) | The villagers trusted the wisdom of the old headman. |
| Synonyms of duplicity: deceit, deception, dishonesty, double-dealing Antonyms of duplicity: honesty, sincerity, candour, straightforwardness Also asked in CUET (UG): deceit – 30-05-2023 Slot 2 |