Select the most appropriate synonym of the word obtrusive to fill in the blank in the following sentence:-
The design of the new smartphone was sleek and _____ blending seamlessly with the latest gadgets she owned.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → intrusive
Note: The given answer is as per the official NTA Answer Key. However, there is a contradiction between what the question asks and the sentence in which the word is to be used. Going strictly by the instruction (a word similar in meaning to "obtrusive"), the answer is Option (1) "intrusive"; but if the word has to fit the sentence, the correct answer would be Option (2) "subtle", as explained below.
Obtrusive means noticeable in an unpleasant or unwelcome way, standing out too much. The question asks for its synonym.
Example: The obtrusive billboards spoil the view of the hills.
Option 1: intrusive — Correct. Intrusive means pushing in where one is not wanted, disturbing. Like obtrusive, it describes something that forces itself on our attention, so it is the synonym the instruction asks for.
Example: The reporter's intrusive questions annoyed the actor.
Option 2: subtle — Can also be considered as correct. Subtle means delicate and not obvious. A design that is sleek and blends seamlessly is subtle, so this word fits the sentence; but it is the antonym of obtrusive, not the synonym the instruction asks for.
Example: The room was painted in subtle shades of grey.
Why the Other Options are Incorrect?
Option 3: transient — Incorrect. Transient means lasting only a short time; it has nothing to do with being noticeable.
Example: Fame on social media is often transient.
Option 4: distinguished — Incorrect. Distinguished means respected and admired, or dignified in appearance; it does not mean pushing in where not wanted.
Example: A distinguished scientist opened the science fair.
| Synonyms (Obtrusive) | Antonyms (Obtrusive) |
|---|---|
| intrusive | subtle |
| conspicuous | unobtrusive |
| prominent | inconspicuous |
| noticeable | discreet |
The following words have also been asked in other CUET (UG) English papers:
| Word | 2026 | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| obtrusive | 11-05 S2 | – | – | – | – |
| intrusive | – | 20-05 S2 | – | – | – |
| transient | 13-05 S1 15-05 S1 18-05 S2 06-06 S1 | 29-05 S1 | – | 02-06 S1 | 10-08 S1 |