Out of the four options given, select the word that is most similar in meaning to the word “Nefarious”.

Introduction / Context:
This vocabulary question checks your understanding of the word “nefarious”, which frequently appears in newspapers, legal contexts and exam passages. You are required to choose the option that is closest in meaning, that is, a synonym. Knowing such words helps you better understand descriptions of crimes, immoral acts and unethical behaviour.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The target word is “Nefarious”.
• Options are: Iniquitous, Purposeful, Suspicious, Virtuous.
• Only one option is intended to be the correct synonym.
• The question assumes general exam-level English vocabulary.

Concept / Approach:
“Nefarious” means extremely wicked, immoral or evil, especially in relation to criminal or unethical activities. The word “iniquitous” also describes something that is grossly unfair or morally wrong. Hence “iniquitous” is the best synonym here. The other options relate to different ideas: being determined, causing suspicion or being morally good.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Recall the meaning of “nefarious”: wicked, villainous, extremely immoral.Check “Iniquitous”: means very unfair and morally wrong; closely aligned with nefarious.Check “Purposeful”: means having a clear aim or determination; not about morality.Check “Suspicious”: means causing doubt or mistrust; again, this is not equivalent to wicked.Check “Virtuous”: means morally good, righteous; in fact, this is almost the opposite of nefarious.Therefore, the synonym that matches “nefarious” in meaning is “Iniquitous”.

Verification / Alternative check:
Use the words in sample sentences: “The police uncovered a nefarious plot to cheat investors.” You can substitute: “The police uncovered an iniquitous plot to cheat investors.” The meaning remains essentially the same: the plot is morally evil. Substituting any of the other options changes the meaning completely and makes the sentence incorrect or strange.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
“Purposeful” refers to having purpose or intention, which can be good or bad, but does not itself mean wicked. “Suspicious” refers to doubt and distrust and does not describe the moral quality of an action. “Virtuous” is almost an antonym, as it means morally excellent and righteous. None of these options capture the extreme moral wrongness implied by “nefarious”.

Common Pitfalls:
Exam candidates sometimes choose “suspicious” because both words appear in crime-related contexts, but “suspicious” describes how something appears to others, not whether it is evil. Always focus on the exact meaning instead of just the context in which words are often used.

Final Answer:
The word similar in meaning to “Nefarious” is Iniquitous.