Choose the most appropriate synonym of the word ‘Innocuous’.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → Harmless
- Innocuous means not harmful or offensive (Latin "in-", not, and "nocuus", harmful).
Example: The snake looked dangerous, but it was quite innocuous. - Harmless means causing no harm, which is what innocuous means, so it is the synonym.
Example: Most spiders in our homes are harmless.
Why the Other Options are Incorrect?
Option 2: Helpful — Incorrect. Helpful means giving help; useful. Something can be harmless without being of any help.
Example: The librarian was very helpful to the new students.
Option 3: Hardworking — Incorrect. Hardworking means putting a lot of effort into one's work; it describes effort, not harm.
Example: The hardworking farmer was in the fields before sunrise.
Option 4: Hesitant — Incorrect. Hesitant means slow to act or speak because of doubt or nervousness.
Example: She was hesitant to ask the question in front of the class.
| Synonyms (Innocuous) | Antonyms (Innocuous) |
|---|---|
| Harmless | harmful |
| inoffensive | injurious |
| safe | offensive |
| benign | noxious |
The following words have also been asked in other CUET (UG) English papers:
| Word | 2026 | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| innocuous | 18-05 S2 07-06 S2 | 13-05 S1 20-05 S1 21-05 S2 30-05 S1 | – | 30-05 S2 | – |