GRE Vocabulary Builder

Answer: Choice (A) is correct.

Something that is plaintive is wistful and mournful; these words are synonyms, so look for the answer choice that contains synonyms. In choice (B), inchoate means incomplete, or in the initial or early stages, not mature, so eliminate that choice. The words in choice (C) are antonyms; irascible means easily angered or short-tempered, not blasé or unconcerned. Therefore, eliminate choice (C). In choice (D), something that is tacit is unspoken or implied, not explicit or overt. These are antonyms, so eliminate choice (D). In choice (A), something that is antediluvian is ancient or outmoded; the word literally means ‘before the flood’. These words are synonyms, so choice (A) is correct.