Question

Or there is the most \textit{fingummy diplomatic note on record: when Philip of Macedon wrote to the Spartans that, if he came within their borders, he would leave not one stone of their city, they wrote back the one word – “If”. Choose the most appropriate replacement for the italicized word.}

• A. witty
• B. rude
• C. simple
• D. terse

Hint:

Brevity and sharpness in diplomatic or witty replies often call for the word “terse”.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The Spartan reply of a single word exemplifies brevity and conciseness. “Terse” is the most accurate replacement for “fingummy” in this context.