In the following vocabulary question, choose the word that best expresses the meaning of the given word PALLID as it is used to describe appearance.

Introduction / Context:
This vocabulary question asks for a synonym of the word "pallid." In exam English, "pallid" is commonly used to describe the colour or appearance of a person's face, or sometimes the dullness of a scene, and you must select the option that best matches this core meaning.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Target word: PALLID.
• Options: FRIENDLY, PALE, WORTHLESS, COMFORTING.
• The common context for "pallid" is physical appearance, especially an unhealthy lack of colour in the face.

Concept / Approach:
"Pallid" means very pale, lacking healthy colour, or sometimes weak and dull in appearance or style. When used for a face, it suggests illness, tiredness, or shock. Therefore, the closest single word synonym among the options is "pale." The other options either describe emotional qualities or value judgements rather than physical appearance.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall the dictionary meaning of "pallid": lacking colour, pale, especially in a way that suggests poor health. Step 2: Examine each option and see which one describes lack of colour. Step 3: Note that "PALE" directly refers to light or whitish colour, especially of the skin. Step 4: Recognise that "FRIENDLY," "WORTHLESS," and "COMFORTING" do not relate to colour at all. Step 5: Select "PALE" as the synonym that best matches the meaning of "pallid."

Verification / Alternative check:
Think of typical sentences such as "Her face looked pallid after the long illness" or "The pallid moonlight barely lit the road." In both cases, replacing "pallid" with "pale" preserves the meaning: "Her face looked pale" and "the pale moonlight." The other options cannot be substituted without changing the sense completely. This confirms that "PALE" is the correct synonym.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• FRIENDLY: Describes a person's nature or behaviour, not the colour of the face or physical appearance.
• WORTHLESS: Refers to something that has no value or importance; it does not express pallor or lack of colour.
• COMFORTING: Means giving comfort or reassurance, again unrelated to the visual idea of paleness.

Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes confuse "pallid" with "placid" or other similar sounding words. "Placid" means calm and peaceful, whereas "pallid" is about appearance, especially a sickly paleness. Remember to associate "pallid" with "pale" by the shared "pal" sound, which can serve as a helpful memory trick in exams.

Final Answer:
The word that best expresses the meaning of PALLID is PALE.