Synonyms

'Jest' means a joke, witty remark, or something done for amusement. It does not mean earnestly, serious, or premonition. 'Jest' can also be used as a verb meaning to joke or tease someone.

'Jeer' means to mock, make rude and mocking remarks, or speak in a scornful manner. It is the opposite of praise or applaud. While 'criticize' might seem close, 'jeer' specifically implies ridicule and scorn, not constructive criticism.

'Juxtapose' means to place different things side by side for comparison or contrast. This is commonly done in art, literature, or analysis to highlight similarities or differences between two things. It does not mean randomly, disorderly, or uniformly.

'Jiffy' is an informal term meaning a very short time or an instant. The phrase 'in a jiffy' means 'in a moment' or 'very quickly'. It does not mean prolonged, momentous, or for eternity.

Kindred means one's family and relations.

'Knell' specifically refers to the sound of a bell, especially when it is slow, solemn, or tolling for a death (as in 'death knell'). It does not mean melodious in general, rigorous, or a symphony. The 'noise' option is too vague.

'Lackadaisical' means lacking enthusiasm, energy, or interest; lazy and slow. It describes someone who is uninterested or unmotivated. It is the opposite of enthusiastic, energetic, or rejuvenated.

Lacerate means to distress or torture, mentally or emotionally.

Lachrymose means 'given to shedding tears readily'; tearful.

'Jaded' means tired, bored, or lacking enthusiasm due to having too much of something, usually overexposure or experience. While related to being experienced, the core meaning is about weariness and loss of interest, not intelligence or cleverness.

'Lampoon' means to publicly criticize or mock someone or something using satire, humor, or ridicule. It is similar to 'satirize' but often implies harsher or more direct mockery. It is the opposite of praise.

Correct Answer: theft

'Latent' means existing but not yet developed, manifest, or visible: hidden, concealed, or dormant. It refers to potentials or qualities that are present but not currently active. The opposite would be visible or apparent.

'Latitude' in this context means freedom from strict rules or restrictions: the ability to act independently or make choices. Being 'liberal in policy' means allowing considerable freedom or flexibility. It is the opposite of being stringent or strictly regulated.

A libertine is someone who leads an immoral or unrestrained lifestyle, particularly regarding sexual behavior. The word comes from Latin 'libertinus' meaning freedman, suggesting freedom from moral constraints.