Choose the correct synonym of the following underlined word from the given options:
The acerbic remarks of the manager were unwarranted.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → bitter
Acerbic means sharp, harsh and biting in tone, especially of remarks or criticism. The manager's remarks were harsh and hurtful, and they were also unwarranted (not justified). Its synonym is bitter.
Example: The critic's acerbic review upset the young author.
| Word | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| (1) childish | silly and immature, behaving like a child (remarks can be childish without being harsh) | His childish sulking spoilt the party. |
| (2) polite | courteous and well-mannered (it is close to the opposite of acerbic) | She gave a polite reply to the rude caller. |
| (3) bitter (answer) | said of words, full of anger and resentment, sharp and hurtful (acerbic remarks are bitter remarks) | The two neighbours exchanged bitter words over the parking space. |
| (4) gallant | brave, or courteous and attentive, especially towards women (it has nothing harsh in it) | The soldiers made a gallant stand against the enemy. |
| Synonyms of acerbic: bitter, harsh, caustic, sarcastic Antonyms of acerbic: gentle, kind, mild, sweet Also asked in CUET (UG): gallant – 03-06-2025 Slot 2, 08-08-2022 Slot 1 |