In standard English vocabulary, which of the following options is the best synonym of the word "Trustworthy"?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Reliable

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This verbal aptitude question focuses on English vocabulary and specifically on synonyms. You are asked to select the word that has the closest meaning to "Trustworthy". Such questions are common in competitive examinations because they measure your command over nuanced meanings of words and your ability to distinguish between related but different terms. Understanding synonyms helps in reading comprehension, precise communication, and error detection tasks.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • The target word is "Trustworthy".
  • The options are "Tenacity", "Insolent", "Resolute", "Reliable", and "Dubious".


Concept / Approach:
To solve synonym questions, first recall the core meaning of the target word, then compare it with the meanings of each option. "Trustworthy" describes a person or thing that can be trusted, relied on, and considered dependable and honest. The best synonym will have a very similar central idea. Words that describe different qualities like rudeness, stubbornness, or doubt do not match. Therefore, we look for the option that directly conveys reliability and dependability.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Understand "Trustworthy" as someone or something that can be trusted, is dependable, and is deserving of confidence. Step 2: Consider "Tenacity". It refers to persistence or determination, not directly to honesty or reliability. Step 3: Consider "Insolent". It means rude or disrespectful in behavior or speech, which is the opposite of qualities that inspire trust. Step 4: Consider "Resolute". It indicates someone who is firm or determined, again focusing on strength of will, not specifically on being reliable for others. Step 5: Consider "Reliable". It directly means dependable, deserving of trust, and likely to do what is expected or promised. This matches "Trustworthy" very closely. Step 6: Consider "Dubious". It suggests doubt, suspicion, or something that is questionable. This is almost the opposite of being trustworthy.


Verification / Alternative check:
If we check a standard dictionary or memory of common usage, "trustworthy person" and "reliable person" are often used interchangeably in daily conversation and formal writing. For example, we say "a reliable friend" meaning that the person is trustworthy and one can depend on them. In contrast, "insolent employee" describes rudeness, and "tenacious researcher" describes persistence, not trust. This confirms that "Reliable" is the best synonym among the choices.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
"Tenacity" refers to persistence and is not focused on honesty or dependability, so it is not a synonym for "Trustworthy".
"Insolent" describes rude or disrespectful behaviour and therefore clashes with the idea of trust and reliability.
"Resolute" is about determination or firm decision, which may be a positive trait but does not guarantee that someone is honest or dependable.
"Dubious" suggests something that is suspicious, doubtful, or not to be trusted, which is very far from the meaning of "Trustworthy".


Common Pitfalls:
A frequent mistake is to choose a word that has a generally positive tone, like "Resolute", simply because it seems like a positive quality. However, synonym questions demand that you match meaning, not just positive or negative tone. Another pitfall is ignoring the root meanings and relying on vague impressions of words. A careful learner always splits each option into its core meaning before deciding.


Final Answer:
The correct synonym of "Trustworthy" is Reliable.

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