Examkin

Question

Difficulty: HardAntonyms and Words Opposite in Meaning

Complete the sentence below by supplying a word in the blank that is most nearly opposite in meaning to the capitalized word in bold.

Answer:While the auditor noted that the executive's actions had a PERNICIOUS effect on the firm's assets, the board maintained that his strategic investments were ultimately 【beneficial】 to its financial growth.

Answer

The word opposite in meaning to 'PERNICIOUS' in this context is 'beneficial' (or 'salutary').
In this sentence context, 'PERNICIOUS' signifies having a harmful or damaging effect. The contrasting sentence structure introduced by 'While' demands a word that means producing good or advantageous outcomes. 'Beneficial' (or 'salutary') serves as the direct contextual antonym.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the meaning of the target word 'PERNICIOUS' in context.
'Pernicious' means having a subtle, highly harmful, or destructive effect.
Determining the contextual definition of the target word is necessary before identifying its antonym.
2
Analyze the sentence structure for contextual clues.
The subordinating conjunction 'While' establishes a contrast between the negative assessment of the auditor ('pernicious') and the positive view of the board.
The sentence contrast requires a positive adjective describing favorable impact to complete the blank correctly.
3
Select the exact antonym for 'PERNICIOUS'.
'Beneficial' (or 'salutary') means producing a favorable, wholesome, or advantageous effect.
Inserting 'beneficial' provides the exact opposite meaning to 'pernicious' within the formal business context.

Key Concept

Antonyms and Words Opposite in Meaning
Estimated Time:1m 30s
Rate this question

Topics

Antonyms and Words Opposite in Meaning

More questions from this topic