Identify the synonym of the underlined word in the following sentence:

The usual adulation of officers must end.

flattery

The correct answer is Option (3) → flattery

Analysis of Options:

1. Backbiting – Incorrect. "Backbiting" means criticizing someone behind their back, which is the opposite of adulation.

2. Condemnation – Incorrect. "Condemnation" means strong disapproval or criticism, which is not similar to adulation.

3. Flattery – Correct. "Flattery" means excessive or insincere praise, which closely matches adulation.

4. Praise – Correct but not the best choice. "Praise" means approval or admiration, but adulation implies an exaggerated or excessive form of praise, which aligns more closely with "flattery."