In each of this question choose the option opposite in meaning to the word or phrase underlined The man's mordant wit is apparent to the entire village

Analyze the question

The question asks for the word opposite in meaning to "mordant" in the sentence: "The man's mordant wit is apparent to the entire village."

Explain the concept

Mordant (adjective) means sharply critical, biting, or cutting, especially describing humour or speech. It comes from the Latin mordere, "to bite." So mordant wit is humour that "bites" and hurts.

Show the solution

Check each option:

• A. scathing: harshly critical. This is a synonym, so it is not the answer.
• B. caustic: bitingly sarcastic, able to burn. This is a synonym, so it is not the answer.
• C. withering: devastating, scornful. This is a synonym, so it is not the answer.
• D. kind: gentle, considerate, and warm. This is the opposite of biting, hurtful wit.

Three options (A, B, C) all mean nearly the same thing as "mordant." The one that stands apart, and means the reverse, is "kind."

Answer

The correct option is D. kind.

Exam tip

In "opposite in meaning" questions, if three options are close synonyms of the underlined word, the odd one out is usually the answer. Also remember "mordant" with the idea of "mouth that bites" (mord- = bite), so you can link it to harsh, cutting words.