Question

Choose the option which is closest in meaning to the word SUBTLE

• A. Innocent
• B. Elusive
• C. Dangerous
• D. Insidious

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

To find the word closest in meaning to "SUBTLE," we need to understand its definition. "Subtle" typically refers to something that is not obvious, something that is understated or refined in a way that requires keen perception to notice.

Now, let's examine the options:

• Innocent: This refers to someone who is not guilty or is harmless. It does not relate to the nuance associated with subtlety.
• Elusive: This means difficult to grasp or find. While it could relate to subtlety in terms of perception, it does not capture the full meaning which often includes elements of sophistication or indirectness.
• Dangerous: This involves potential harm, which does not relate to subtlety.
• Insidious: This describes something that appears harmless but has a gradual and cumulative effect, often harmful. It aligns with "subtle" as both imply a gradual, often hidden, progression that is not immediately obvious.

Therefore, the word "Insidious" is closest in meaning to "Subtle" as it embodies the subtlety of being indirectly harmful or secretly causing adverse effects over time.