Q.2
Choose the most appropriate word from the options given below to complete the sentence:
His rather casual remarks on politics ______ his lack of seriousness about the subject.
- masked
- belied
- betrayed
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Masked: Means to cover or conceal something, like hiding identity. It would imply the remarks hid his lack of seriousness, which contradicts the sentence’s logic.
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Belied: Means to give a false impression or contradict. This suggests the remarks showed the opposite of his lack of seriousness (i.e., seriousness), which doesn’t fit.
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Betrayed: Means to reveal or disclose unintentionally, often true feelings. Casual remarks expose his unseriousness perfectly, matching the context.
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Suppressed: Means to hold back or restrain. Remarks can’t suppress a trait; they show it, so this is illogical.suppressed
Betrayed is the most appropriate word to complete the sentence: “His rather casual remarks on politics betrayed his lack of seriousness about the subject.”
Option Analysis
Casual remarks unintentionally reveal true attitudes, so the word must indicate exposure rather than hiding.
His casual remarks on politics betrayed his lack of seriousness about the subject – this classic verbal aptitude question tests precise word choice for competitive exams like GATE. Understanding why “betrayed” reveals true intent over options like masked or suppressed builds vocabulary for exams and communication.
Why “Betrayed” Reveals Hidden Truths
In verbal aptitude, “betrayed” signals unintentional disclosure, as casual remarks slip and expose real attitudes. This fits politics discussions where offhand comments betray deeper unseriousness.
Breaking Down Incorrect Options
Option Meaning Why It Fails in Context Masked Conceal or hide Remarks would hide lack of seriousness – opposite of revealing it. Belied Contradict Implies remarks showed seriousness – mismatches casual tone. Betrayed Reveal unintentionally Perfect: Casual style exposes true lack of depth. Suppressed Restrain Remarks don’t suppress traits; they display them. -
