Choose the most appropriate synonym of the underlined word.
The clerk gave a curt reply and went back to his file.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → Terse
In the given sentence, curt means so short in speech that it sounds rude. Its synonym is terse. Example: The shopkeeper gave a curt nod and turned away.
| Word | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| (1) Detailed | giving many facts and small points | The teacher gave us a detailed plan for the project. |
| (2) Polite | speaking with good manners (a curt reply sounds rude, so polite is nearly its opposite) | The polite waiter showed us to our table. |
| (3) Terse (answer) | using very few words, often in a cold way (same as curt) | Her terse message said only, “Not coming.” |
| (4) Hesitant | slow to speak or act because one is unsure (the clerk replied quickly and sharply, not with doubt) | Anu was hesitant to ask a question in the big class. |
| Synonyms of curt: terse, brusque, abrupt, blunt Antonyms of curt: polite, courteous, warm, gracious |