Select the synonym of "melodramatic" in the sense of being exaggerated, emotional, or overly theatrical in behaviour or style.

Introduction / Context:
The adjective "melodramatic" is often used to criticise someone's behaviour, speech, or a piece of writing or acting as being overly emotional, exaggerated, or showy. This question asks you to choose the best synonym among four options. Recognising such tone related words is important for understanding literary criticism, reviews, and everyday commentary.

Given Data / Assumptions:
The options are:

• tranquil
• halcyon
• bucolic
• theatrical

We must pick the one that matches the emotional and stylistic meaning of "melodramatic".

Concept / Approach:
"Melodramatic" comes from "melodrama", a type of play characterised by exaggerated emotions and sensational events. Therefore, "melodramatic" describes behaviour or style that is overly theatrical, not calm or peaceful. Among the options, "theatrical" directly reflects this same idea of acting or behaving in a showy, exaggerated way. The other options are associated with peace and countryside calmness, which are nearly opposite in tone.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Fix the meaning of "melodramatic": unduly emotional, exaggerated, or affected, like an overacted scene in a theatre. Step 2: Examine "theatrical": this adjective describes something related to the theatre or acting; it also carries the extended meaning of being dramatic and exaggerated in behaviour. Step 3: Check "tranquil": this means calm, peaceful, and free from disturbance; it is almost the opposite of melodramatic. Step 4: Evaluate "halcyon": often used to describe a period in the past that was happy and peaceful; again, the tone is calm and contented, not overwrought. Step 5: Consider "bucolic": this word relates to the pleasant aspects of the countryside and rural life. It suggests simplicity and calmness, not emotional excess. Step 6: Conclude that "theatrical" is the only option that truly aligns with the sense of exaggerated, showy emotion found in "melodramatic".

Verification / Alternative check:
Insert each option into a sample sentence:

• "Her reaction to the news was so melodramatic; she was almost theatrical in her gestures and tears." This clearly shows "melodramatic" and "theatrical" can be used together to reinforce the same idea.
• "Her reaction was tranquil/halcyon/bucolic" would make no sense, because these adjectives do not describe an emotional outburst at all.

The pairing of "melodramatic" and "theatrical" is natural in English and is often seen in reviews of performances or comments about people who exaggerate their feelings.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• tranquil: Means calm and peaceful; it contrasts sharply with the excitement and exaggeration of melodrama.
• halcyon: Refers to a happy and peaceful time; it is used for nostalgia, not for overacting or emotional display.
• bucolic: Describes the pleasant aspects of rural life; it has nothing to do with strong or exaggerated emotions.

Common Pitfalls:
Candidates sometimes confuse "melodramatic" with "melodious" because both begin with "melod-". "Melodious" is about pleasant sound, especially music, whereas "melodramatic" is about excessive drama. Focusing on the root "drama" in "melodramatic" helps you remember that it relates to theatricality and emotional exaggeration, making "theatrical" the clear synonym here.

Final Answer:
The synonym of "melodramatic" in this context is theatrical.