Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Effective communication hinges on precise word choice. The English language is replete with synonyms, but each carries a unique connotation and application. The sentence "Everyone despised him for his behaviour" requires careful consideration of whether ‘obnoxious’ or ‘noxious’ best describes the reason for the widespread dislike. While both words denote something unpleasant, their specific meanings differ significantly. This answer will define both terms, analyze their suitability within the given context, and ultimately justify the correct selection.
Understanding the Terms
Both ‘obnoxious’ and ‘noxious’ are adjectives expressing negativity, but they target different aspects of unpleasantness. A clear understanding of their definitions is crucial for accurate application.
Obnoxious
‘Obnoxious’ (from Latin obnoxius, meaning ‘harmful, offensive’) describes someone or something highly offensive, disagreeable, or irritating. It refers to behaviour that is particularly unpleasant and causes annoyance or resentment in others. It focuses on the qualities of a person or thing that are actively irritating or repulsive to others. It’s often used to describe someone rude, arrogant, or generally unpleasant in their interactions.
Noxious
‘Noxious’ (from Latin noxius, meaning ‘harmful’) refers to something harmful, poisonous, or very unpleasant. It typically describes things that are physically harmful, like a noxious gas or a noxious weed. While it can be used figuratively, it generally implies a tangible harm or danger. It’s less about social unpleasantness and more about actual harm.
Analyzing the Sentence Context
The sentence states, "Everyone despised him for his behaviour." Despise implies a strong feeling of dislike or contempt. The reason for this strong negative emotion stems from the *way* he acted – his behaviour. This suggests the issue isn’t necessarily a physical harm (like a noxious substance), but rather the irritating and offensive nature of his actions.
Justifying the Correct Choice
Given the context, ‘obnoxious’ is the more appropriate choice. His behaviour was likely irritating, offensive, and disagreeable, leading to widespread dislike. ‘Noxious’ would be more fitting if the sentence described him releasing a harmful substance or engaging in a demonstrably dangerous activity.
Therefore, the correct sentence is: "Everyone despised him for his obnoxious behaviour."
Illustrative Examples
- Obnoxious: “The comedian’s obnoxious jokes offended many in the audience.” (Focuses on the irritating and offensive nature of the jokes)
- Noxious: “The factory released noxious fumes into the atmosphere.” (Focuses on the harmful and poisonous nature of the fumes)
Distinguishing the Usage
| Feature | Obnoxious | Noxious |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Meaning | Highly offensive, irritating | Harmful, poisonous |
| Focus | Behaviour, character | Substances, environments |
| Type of Harm | Social, emotional | Physical, tangible |
| Example | An obnoxious guest | Noxious gases |
Conclusion
In conclusion, while both ‘obnoxious’ and ‘noxious’ convey negativity, ‘obnoxious’ is the more accurate descriptor of behaviour that evokes widespread dislike and contempt. The sentence’s focus on the irritating and offensive nature of his actions, rather than any physical harm, clearly points to ‘obnoxious’ as the correct choice. A nuanced understanding of vocabulary and contextual analysis are vital for effective communication and precise expression.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.