Q. What does nefarious mean?
a) Honest
b) Morally bad
c) Extremely wealthy
d) Very fearful
Correct Answer: b) Morally bad
Question from UPPSC Prelims CSAT 2025
Explanation:
Nefarious means wicked, evil, or morally reprehensible—especially describing actions (e.g., a nefarious scheme). It comes from Latin ‘nefarius’ (wrong, criminal). Therefore, ‘Morally bad’ is correct.
Elimination:
– Option 1 (Honest): Antonym of nefarious.
– Option 3 (Extremely wealthy): Relates to affluence, not morality.
– Option 4 (Very fearful): Describes emotion, not moral character.
Synonyms: wicked, villainous, heinous, depraved.
