In the following question, out of the given four alternatives, select the one which best expresses the meaning of the given word: "Fiendish".

Introduction / Context:
This vocabulary question asks you to select the synonym of the word "Fiendish." Such words often appear in newspaper editorials, novels, and descriptive writing. "Fiendish" is linked to the idea of a "fiend," that is, a demon or very wicked person, and it usually describes something extremely cruel, wicked, or devilishly difficult.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Target word: "Fiendish."
• Options: Apparent, Cruel, Secure, Exemplify.
• We rely on the standard, most common meaning used in general English.
• We assume the exam wants the nearest everyday synonym.

Concept / Approach:
"Fiendish" generally means extremely cruel, wicked, or unpleasant. It is used both for people and plans, as in "a fiendish plan" or "fiendish torture." The word "cruel" captures this central meaning very directly. It suggests causing suffering deliberately or finding pleasure in others' pain, which is very close to the sense of "fiendish."

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that "fiendish" is derived from "fiend," meaning an evil spirit or cruel person. Step 2: Understand that "fiendish" describes extreme wickedness or cruel behaviour, or sometimes something horribly difficult. Step 3: Check the options: "Cruel" clearly means causing pain or suffering deliberately; this aligns well with "fiendish." Step 4: Verify that none of the other options carry the idea of wickedness or extreme unkindness. Step 5: Conclude that "Cruel" is the correct synonym.

Verification / Alternative check:
Consider a sentence: "They devised a fiendish punishment." Replacing "fiendish" with "cruel" gives: "They devised a cruel punishment." The meaning remains strong and clear: the punishment is extremely harsh and unkind. Similarly, "a fiendish villain" can be understood as "a cruel villain." This confirms the semantic closeness.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A: "Apparent" means obvious or clear and has nothing to do with cruelty or wickedness. Option C: "Secure" means safe or protected, which is almost opposite in tone to the negative word "fiendish." Option D: "Exemplify" is a verb meaning to illustrate or show by example, not an adjective describing character or behaviour.

Common Pitfalls:
Some learners may think of "fiendish" only as "very difficult" (for example, "a fiendish puzzle"). While that is a valid extended usage, the underlying sense is that the puzzle is almost wickedly or devilishly hard. Thus, the core emotional colouring is still negative and related to cruelty or extreme severity. Avoid picking neutral or unrelated words just because they sound formal.

Final Answer:
The word that best expresses the meaning of "Fiendish" is: Cruel.