Question

Choose the word closest in meaning to the underlined word:
Why did you make that flippant remark about her choice of clothes?

• A. sarcastic
• B. disrespectful
• C. casual
• D. indifferent

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The word flippant is an adjective that typically means lacking proper respect or seriousness, often being described as offhanded or casual in nature. This suggests an attitude where comments are made lightly with little regard for their seriousness. In the context of the sentence, the remark about her choice of clothes was likely not intended to be serious, signifying a casual or nonchalant attitude. 

Analyzing the options:

• Sarcastic: Implies irony and potentially intended mockery, which emphasizes a different attitude than simply casual.
• Disrespectful: Suggests a deliberate lack of respect, which may not necessarily be flippant in the context that it involves intentional disrespect.
• Casual: Indicates a relaxed, unconcerned attitude, aligning closely with the informal and possibly thoughtless nature of a flippant remark.
• Indifferent: Means having no particular interest or concern, which is less about the tone and more about the absence of feeling.

Thus, the word closest in meaning to flippant is casual.

Answer 2

"Casual" is closest in meaning to "flippant."

Context: "Casual" and "flippant" are both used to describe attitudes or behaviors that lack seriousness or thoughtfulness. They can refer to remarks, actions, or styles that are relaxed and nonchalant, sometimes to the point of being dismissive or inappropriate in certain situations.

Meaning of "Casual": "Casual" refers to something that is relaxed, informal, or unconcerned. It can describe clothing, conversations, or behaviors that do not adhere to formal standards or expectations, often conveying a laid-back approach.

Meaning of "Flippant": "Flippant" describes behavior or remarks that are not serious and often show a lack of respect or thoughtfulness, typically in situations where seriousness is expected. It can imply a carefree attitude that is inappropriate or dismissive.

Final Thought: Both "casual" and "flippant" suggest a lack of seriousness, but "flippant" often carries a negative connotation, indicating disrespect or a lack of consideration, while "casual" may simply refer to a relaxed or informal approach.