Step 1 — Identify the word and its core meaning:
The word virtuoso comes from Italian, derived from the Latin word "virtus," meaning excellence or skill. In modern English, a virtuoso is someone who demonstrates extraordinary ability, mastery, or expertise, especially in the arts, such as music, painting, or performance.
Step 2 — Detailed interpretation:
When someone is called a virtuoso, it implies more than just competence — it means the person is exceptionally talented, often admired for technical brilliance, creativity, and refinement. For example, a "piano virtuoso" is not just a good pianist but one who performs with such mastery that they stand apart from ordinary musicians.
Step 3 — Context check with possible meanings:
- (A) Skilled performer → Correct, because a virtuoso is exactly that: a performer of remarkable skill, often in music or arts.
- (B) Learner → Incorrect, because virtuoso implies mastery, not the process of learning.
- (C) Beginner → Incorrect, because it’s the opposite of virtuoso. Beginners are novices.
- (D) Ordinary worker → Incorrect, because virtuoso means extraordinary mastery, not ordinary ability.
Step 4 — Nuance and exam perspective:
In competitive exams, the word virtuoso is usually tested in the sense of “a highly skilled artist or performer.” Although it can extend beyond music into other crafts or skills, the central idea is exceptional talent and performance.
Final Answer: Skilled performer (Option A).