Choose the correct one-word substitution for:
"A person who pretends to have moral beliefs they don't actually possess _____".
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
Correct Answer
Hypocrite
Explanation
The question asks for the correct one-word substitution for a person who falsely claims to have admirable principles, beliefs, or feelings.
The word "Hypocrite" refers to someone who engages in the practice of claiming to have moral standards or beliefs to which one's own behavior does not conform. It originates from the Greek word hypokrites, which literally means "an actor" or "a stage player"—someone putting on a mask or pretending to be someone they are not. Therefore, Option 1 is the correct choice.
The other options are incorrect because they define different personality types:
Cynic refers to a person who believes that people are motivated purely by self-interest rather than honorable reasons.
Pessimist refers to a person who habitually sees or anticipates the worst aspect of things.
Idealist refers to a person who is guided more by ideals and perfection than by practical considerations.
Key Points
In competitive exams, words related to belief systems and behavior are heavily repeated. Ensure you can differentiate between a hypocrite (a moral pretender), a bigot (an intolerant person attached to a belief), and a charlatan (a person falsely claiming to have special knowledge or skill, like a fake doctor).