Choose the word similar in meaning to the following word from the options given:
Imperious
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → Arrogant
- Imperious means expecting to be obeyed, proud and commanding; an imperious person gives orders as if others were inferior.
Example: The manager's imperious tone annoyed the whole staff. - Arrogant means too proud, behaving as if one is better or more important than others. An imperious manner is an arrogant manner, so arrogant is the synonym.
Example: The arrogant player refused to shake hands with his opponents.
Why the Other Options are Incorrect?
Option 2: Pious — Incorrect. Pious means deeply religious and devout; it has nothing to do with pride or giving orders.
Example: The pious old woman visits the temple every morning.
Option 3: Unassuming — Incorrect. Unassuming means modest, not wanting to draw attention to oneself; it is close to the opposite of imperious.
Example: Despite his fame, the scientist remained an unassuming man.
Option 4: Impair — Incorrect. Impair is a verb meaning to weaken or damage; it only begins like "imperious".
Example: Too little sleep can impair your memory.
The following words have also been asked in other CUET (UG) English papers:
| Word | 2026 | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| imperious | – | 03-06 S2 | – | 02-07 S3 | – |
| pious | 11-05 S1 | – | – | – | 20-08 S1 |
| unassuming | – | 20-05 S1 | – | 02-07 S3 | – |