Question

Find out a word which is nearest in meaning to the word given in capitals.
SYCOPHANT

• A. flatterer
• B. arrogant
• C. superior
• D. critic

Hint:

Sycophants are often found in political or corporate contexts.
Think of a 'yes-man' or 'toady'.
The word 'flatterer' is the most common and direct synonym for this behavioral noun.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
This question requires identifying the synonym of the noun 'SYCOPHANT'.
A sycophant describes a type of social behavior, usually negative, aimed at self-gain.

Step 2: Key Approach:
Determine the functional role described by the target noun (often social or hierarchical behavior) and match it with its common synonym.
Identify how the target word behaves in human interactions and map it to equivalent behavioral nouns.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:

• Meaning of SYCOPHANT: A 'sycophant' is a person who acts obsequiously toward someone important in order to gain advantage.
They use insincere praise and subservience to win favor from superiors.

• Option A (flatterer): A 'flatterer' is someone who praises insincerely to win favor or advance themselves.
This is the exact definition of a sycophant, making it the closest synonym.

• Option B (arrogant): This is an adjective describing someone who has an exaggerated sense of one's own importance.
This does not match the subservient behavior of a sycophant.

• Option C (superior): This refers to someone of higher status or quality.
A sycophant is someone who serves or bows down to a superior.

• Option D (critic): This is a person who expresses an unfavorable opinion or analyzes something.
A critic is the opposite of a sycophant, as critics offer judgment rather than blind praise.


Step 4: Final Answer:
The synonym of 'SYCOPHANT' is 'flatterer'.