The correct option is
B. harmless.
Explanation of the Correct Answer
- Understanding the Word "Innocuous":
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The word "innocuous" is an adjective that describes something that is not harmful or offensive. In the context of the sentence, it refers to mushrooms that may appear safe to eat but could potentially be dangerous.
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Contextual Clue:
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The sentence warns against eating mushrooms that look innocuous, implying that just because they look safe, they might not be. This suggests that "innocuous" means something that does not cause harm.
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Definition Matching:
- The closest synonym to "innocuous" in the options provided is B. harmless. Both words convey the idea of something that does not cause injury or damage.
Why the Other Options Are Incorrect
- A. harmful:
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This option is the opposite of "innocuous." If something is harmful, it causes damage or injury, which is contrary to the meaning of "innocuous." Therefore, this option cannot be correct.
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C. innocent:
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While "innocent" can imply a lack of guilt or wrongdoing, it does not directly relate to the idea of being harmless. In the context of mushrooms, "innocuous" specifically refers to safety and lack of harm, making "innocent" a weaker choice.
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D. immunized:
- This term refers to being protected against disease, typically through vaccination. It does not relate to the concept of being harmless or safe in the context of mushrooms. Thus, this option is irrelevant to the meaning of "innocuous."
Summary of Key Points
- "Innocuous" means not harmful or offensive.
- The correct synonym in this context is B. harmless.
- Options A, C, and D do not accurately reflect the meaning of "innocuous."
- Understanding the context and definitions of words is crucial for selecting the correct synonym.
By focusing on the meanings of the words and their contextual usage, you can improve your vocabulary and comprehension skills, which are essential for professional exams.