Q.56
Which of the following options is the closest in meaning to the word below:
Circuitous
Options:
(A) cyclic
(B) indirect
(C) confusing
(D) crooked
Circuitous Meaning: Closest Synonym Revealed with Explanation
Circuitous describes a long, indirect, or roundabout path, not the straightest route. In exams like GATE 2010, this word tests precise synonym knowledge.
Correct Answer
The closest meaning to circuitous is (B) indirect.
Circuitous refers to something not direct, like a winding route or evasive explanation—synonymous with indirect or roundabout. This matches exam contexts where “indirect” captures its essence perfectly.
Option Breakdown
| Option | Meaning | Why Matching or Not? |
|---|---|---|
| (A) Cyclic | Recurring in cycles or loops, like a repeating pattern. | Not closest; cyclic implies repetition (e.g., seasonal cycles), while circuitous focuses on indirect paths without looping back |
| (B) Indirect | Not straight or direct; roundabout. | Exact match; both describe non-direct routes or speech, as in “circuitous route” meaning indirect path . |
| (C) Confusing | Difficult to understand; bewildering. | Related but indirect; a circuitous explanation might confuse, yet confusing targets clarity, not path deviation |
| (D) Crooked | Bent, twisted, or dishonest; not straight. | Partial overlap in “not straight,” but crooked implies physical bend or moral dishonesty, unlike circuitous’s roundabout sense |
Exam Tips
Master words like circuitous by noting roots: from Latin “circuitus” (going around). Practice GATE-style questions to differentiate nuances—indirect beats confusing or crooked for precision. Use in sentences: “His circuitous argument delayed the decision” (indirect reasoning). Boost vocabulary for SSC, UPSC with synonyms like roundabout.
