Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: urbane
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
This vocabulary question asks you to find the synonym of "metropolitan". The word "metropolitan" usually refers to something connected with a large city, especially in contrast to rural areas. It can also carry a nuance of being polished or sophisticated in manners typical of large urban centres. You have to choose the option that best captures this sense.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
The approach to synonym questions is:
Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Understand "metropolitan": it relates to a large city, a metropolis, and often suggests sophistication, modernity, and urban culture.
Step 2: Look at "idyllic". It describes a place that is peaceful and charming in a simple, often rural way. This is generally opposite to busy city life.
Step 3: Consider "arcadian". This word refers to an idealized rural or pastoral setting, again strongly connected to countryside simplicity.
Step 4: Examine "bucolic". It also means rustic or relating to the pleasant aspects of country life.
Step 5: Finally, look at "urbane". It describes a person as polished, refined, and sophisticated, typically in the way someone from a big city might be.
Step 6: Among these, "urbane" shares the idea of city based refinement that lies inside the idea of "metropolitan".
Verification / Alternative check:
Think of pairs: "metropolitan" versus "rural" or "bucolic". The three options "idyllic", "arcadian", and "bucolic" all clearly belong to the rural, countryside family of meanings. "Urbane", however, comes from "urban" and strongly suggests city culture and manners. Therefore it aligns best with the sense of "metropolitan" used in competitive exams when contrasted with a village or rural background.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Common Pitfalls:
A common misconception is to treat "metropolitan" only as "large and pleasant" and then choose any positive sounding adjective. But vocabulary questions depend on precise context: metropolitan areas form the opposite of bucolic, pastoral regions. Remember to connect "metro" with "urban" and keep rural related adjectives clearly separate in your mind.
Final Answer:
The correct synonym for "metropolitan" in this context is urbane.
Discussion & Comments