Classification (spelling – colour terms): Three entries are correctly spelled shades of red; one entry is misspelled. Identify the misspelled one.
-
ACrimson
-
BScarlet
-
CVemilion
-
DCardinal
Answer
Correct Answer: Vemilion
Explanation
Introduction / Context:When several items seem to belong to exactly the same category, exam setters often inject an orthographic (spelling) trap to preserve the single-answer structure. Crimson, scarlet, and cardinal are correctly spelled English colour names (all reds). “Vermilion” is also a shade of red, but the correct spelling requires an “r” after the initial “Ve.” The option given as “Vemilion” is therefore the misspelled outlier.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Crimson — correct spelling; deep red.
- Scarlet — correct spelling; bright red with a hint of orange.
- Cardinal — correct spelling; deep red.
- Vermilion — correct spelling (with “r”); the listed “Vemilion” is incorrect.
Concept / Approach:Because all four words are names of red hues, a pure “category” test would yield no odd one. Under the Recovery-First policy, we minimally repair the stem by interpreting it as a spelling/word-form classification: three are correctly spelled, and one contains a spelling error. This preserves the single-answer requirement without altering the underlying topic (colour vocabulary).
Step-by-Step Solution:
Verify dictionary spellings of each shade.Identify the incorrect orthography (“Vemilion” → should be “Vermilion”).Select the misspelled entry as the odd one out.Verification / Alternative check:Pronunciation cue: “ver-MI-lee-ən” signals an audible “r” after the initial syllable; the written form must include it.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Crimson, scarlet, cardinal are correctly spelled colour terms.Common Pitfalls:Overthinking hue differences (deep vs bright) and missing the orthography trap. The question intends exactly one objective outlier.
Final Answer:Vemilion