Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: Distinct
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
This synonym question focuses on the word “articulate”, which is widely used to describe people who can express their ideas clearly and effectively in speech or writing. Recognising this word helps you in reading comprehension, personality descriptions, and interview-related topics.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
As an adjective, “articulate” describes someone who can express thoughts and feelings clearly and effectively. It can also refer to speech that is clear and easily understood. A synonym must therefore point towards clarity. The word “distinct” means clear, easily distinguishable or clearly perceptible, which aligns well with the idea of articulate speech. The other options either describe the opposite or are unrelated.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Recall the meaning of “articulate”: clear and effective in speech or expression.Option A – “Distinct”: clear, noticeable, easily heard or seen; fits the idea of clarity of speech.Option B – “Unclear”: the direct opposite of clear; this is an antonym, not a synonym.Option C – “Disconnect”: usually a verb or noun about breaking a connection; not related to clarity of speech.Option D – “Secret”: something hidden or not revealed; unrelated to how clearly someone speaks.Hence, “Distinct” is the best synonym for “Articulate” in this context.
Verification / Alternative check:
Use both words in similar sentences: “She is an articulate speaker” means she speaks clearly and effectively. “She is a distinct speaker” is not as common in daily use, but we can say “Her voice is distinct and easy to follow”, which conveys clarity. The core idea of easy understanding is present in both and shows why “distinct” is the closest among the given options.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
“Unclear” is almost the opposite of “articulate”; an unclear speaker is hard to understand. “Disconnect” refers to separation of things, not clarity. “Secret” refers to hidden information and has no connection with clarity of speech. These three options therefore do not share the core meaning of “articulate”.
Common Pitfalls:
Examinees sometimes confuse “articulate” with “intelligent” or “secretive”, but it does not directly mean either of these. A person may be intelligent but not articulate, and an articulate person might reveal information rather than hide it. The key idea is clear expression, which you should link mentally with words like “distinct” and “clear”.
Final Answer:
The word that best expresses the meaning of “Articulate” in this context is Distinct.
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