In English vocabulary and reading comprehension, select the synonym (word with a similar meaning) of the adjective "dire", which is used to describe an extremely serious, grave, or urgent situation.

Introduction / Context:

This question tests core English vocabulary and your ability to recognise a synonym for the adjective "dire". In many competitive exams and language tests, words like "dire" appear in reading passages that describe serious crises, emergencies, or very grave warnings. Knowing the exact nuance of such words helps you understand tone and attitude in passages and also improves your own written and spoken communication. In this item you need to identify which option has a meaning closest to "dire", not just a vaguely negative feeling.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The target word is "dire".
• You must pick one synonym from the four options calm, mild, critical, and trivial.
• Only one option correctly captures the sense used in standard English usage, especially in phrases like "dire consequences" or "dire need".

Concept / Approach:

"Dire" is an adjective most commonly used to describe situations that are extremely serious, urgent, or potentially disastrous. Typical collocations include "dire consequences", "dire situation", and "in dire need". The core idea is of something that is very bad and requires immediate attention. When solving synonym questions, first recall how the word is used in real sentences and then match the meaning, not the sound or length of the word. Think about whether each option can naturally replace the word in those common phrases without changing the intended sense.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Insert each option into a typical phrase such as "dire consequences". "Calm consequences" and "mild consequences" sound wrong because they suggest something gentle or not serious. "Trivial consequences" means unimportant outcomes, which is again the opposite of grave danger. "Critical consequences" correctly suggests that the situation is extremely serious and may determine success or failure. You can also think of "dire need", which means an urgent, serious need. Replacing this with "critical need" still conveys a similar sense of urgency, while "calm need", "mild need", or "trivial need" sound unnatural. This substitution test confirms that "critical" is the best synonym in standard English usage.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Calm describes a peaceful, quiet, or relaxed state, so it actually contrasts with the danger implied by "dire". Mild indicates something small in degree or not intense, so it suggests low seriousness rather than extreme gravity. Trivial means unimportant or insignificant, which is again the opposite of urgent or disastrous. None of these wrong options fit typical "dire" collocations in real language use.

Common Pitfalls:

Students sometimes confuse "dire" with words like "direct" or "directions" because of superficial similarity in spelling, or they pick a vaguely negative option without checking precise usage. Another common mistake is to choose a word that feels formal, assuming that formal equals correct. The safe method is to recall standard phrases such as "dire emergency" and try mentally replacing the word with each option. Only the choice whose meaning and tone truly match should be selected as the synonym.

Final Answer:

The synonym of "dire" that best matches its meaning of extremely serious or grave is critical.