Choose the correct one-word substitute for:
"A disgusting and unpleasant smell"
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
Correct Answer
Rancid
Explanation
The question asks for the correct one-word substitution for a foul, disgusting, and deeply unpleasant odor.
The correct term among the choices is Rancid.
Let's look at the definitions of all the options provided to see why it fits and why the others are incorrect:
Rancid is an adjective used to describe food containing oils or fats (like butter, meat, or nuts) that have decomposed, spoiled, and turned stale. This chemical spoilage produces a highly repulsive, sharp, and disgusting smell or taste.
Fragrant is a highly positive word used to describe a sweet, pleasant, and delightful scent, such as the smell of fresh flowers or perfume.
Aromatic is another positive or neutral word meaning having a distinctive, pleasant, and strong savory smell (like fresh coffee, spices, or herbs).
Pleasant is a general positive term that means giving a sense of happy satisfaction or enjoyment, which is the exact opposite of disgusting.
Because "Rancid" is the only option that describes a foul, unappealing, and spoiled smell, Option 2 is the correct choice.
Key Points
On English vocabulary exams, when three out of four options describe highly pleasant, sweet, or agreeable scents (fragrant, aromatic, pleasant), you can safely use the process of elimination to select the single negative option.
While "rancid" specifically refers to spoiled fats and oils in technical terms, it is widely used in general language to denote any sour, foul, or stale smell caused by decomposition.