Answer the following question below and choose the option nearest in meaning to the underlined word or phrase…

Analyze the question: The word "virtuous" is the one being tested. You need the option closest in meaning to it.

Explain the concept: "Virtuous" is an adjective that describes someone with high moral standards, someone who is good, righteous, and honest in character. It comes from the noun virtue, meaning moral goodness.

Solution:

• A. clever: means smart or quick-witted. This has to do with mental ability, not morals. ✗
• B. upright: means honest, morally correct, and of good character. This matches "virtuous." ✓
• C. devilsh (devilish): means wicked or evil. This is the opposite of virtuous. ✗
• D. intelligent: means having a high mental capacity. This is not about morals. ✗

The sentence "There are still virtuous women in our society today" means there are still morally upright women around. So the closest meaning is upright.

Answer: B. upright

Exam tip: In vocabulary questions, first decide whether the word describes character/morals or intellect/ability. "Virtue" belongs to the moral group, so you can quickly eliminate "clever" and "intelligent." Also watch for the opposite meaning (here, "devilish") as a trap option.