Choose the correct synonym of the word: Ostentation

The correct answer is Option (2) → Deception

Note: The given answer is as per the official NTA Answer Key. However, there appears to be a discrepancy in the key: the correct answer should be Option (4) → Pageantry, as explained below.

Ostentation means a showy display of wealth, possessions or importance, meant to impress others.
Example: The wedding was full of ostentation, with gold-plated cards and a hundred dishes.

Option 1: Equanimity — Incorrect. Equanimity means calmness of mind, especially in difficulty. It has nothing to do with showing off.
Example: She accepted the bad news with equanimity.

Option 2: Deception — Should be Incorrect. (But this is the correct answer in the NTA Answer Key.) Deception means making someone believe something false. Ostentation may sometimes give a false picture of wealth, but its meaning is showy display, not trickery. The two words are not synonyms.
Example: The fake website was a clever deception.

Option 3: Declaration — Incorrect. A declaration is a formal statement or announcement. It is not a display.
Example: The declaration of the results was delayed.

Option 4: Pageantry — Should be Correct. (Incorrect as per NTA) Pageantry means grand, colourful display and ceremony. Like ostentation, it is about an elaborate show meant to impress, so it is the closest synonym.
Example: The Republic Day parade is famous for its pageantry.

Advice for the exam: In the real exam, mark the answer that is grammatically or factually correct. If NTA’s provisional answer key marks a different option, challenge it during the answer-key challenge window and give the reason in one or two lines.

 

Synonyms of ostentation: pageantry, showiness, flamboyance, pomp Antonyms of ostentation: modesty, simplicity, restraint, plainness Also asked in CUET (UG): ostentation – 14-06-2023 Slot 1 equanimity – 30-05-2026 Slot 2