In the following question, select the English word that is most similar in meaning to the given word: Fustian.

Introduction / Context:
This synonym question tests knowledge of slightly advanced vocabulary. The word fustian is not very common in everyday conversation, but it appears in literature and critical writing to describe a particular style of speech or writing. Understanding such words helps in reading higher level texts and in answering verbal ability questions in competitive exams.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Target word: Fustian.• Options: Bombastic, Modest, Timid, Courteous.• We assume standard dictionary definitions.• The context is description of language, style, or manner of expression.

Concept / Approach:
In modern usage, fustian refers to pompous, inflated, or pretentious speech or writing, usually full of grand words but lacking real substance. The closest common synonym among the options is bombastic, which also describes language that is showy and inflated beyond what the situation requires. Modest describes humility or lack of show, timid refers to shyness or lack of courage, and courteous relates to politeness. None of these last three capture the idea of overblown language.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that fustian in the context of language means overly grand or pretentious style.Step 2: Examine bombastic, which describes speech or writing that is full of long, impressive sounding words used more to impress than to communicate clearly.Step 3: Note that bombastic and fustian both suggest exaggeration and lack of simplicity, especially in rhetoric or formal addresses.Step 4: Look at modest. It suggests simplicity or humility, which is opposite in tone to fustian.Step 5: Consider timid, which concerns a person's lack of confidence or courage, not style of speech.Step 6: Check courteous, which deals with politeness and good manners, again unrelated to inflated style.

Verification / Alternative check:
Imagine a literary critic writing The speech was full of fustian promises versus The speech was full of bombastic promises. In both cases, the critic is complaining that the language is over the top and probably insincere. Modest promises would mean simple and not exaggerated, timid promises would mean hesitant, and courteous promises would focus on politeness. These do not share the critical tone of fustian, which clearly aligns with bombastic.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Modest suggests restraint and lack of display, which is far from the excessive, showy quality implied by fustian. Timid refers to personal fearfulness or shyness and does not comment on style of writing or speaking. Courteous indicates politeness and respect, which could describe someone's manner, but not the inflated content of their speeches. Therefore, these options do not function as synonyms for fustian.

Common Pitfalls:
One pitfall is to pick words only on the basis of vague familiarity rather than precise meaning. Another is to assume that any rare word must have a positive meaning, but fustian actually carries a negative judgement about style. To avoid such mistakes, associate each difficult word with a short phrase or image, for example, fustian speech equals empty grand sounding talk. Matching that image to bombastic makes the answer clearer.

Final Answer:
The word that is most similar in meaning to Fustian is Bombastic.