Asked in: SSC CHSL 2025 T-1 · SSC CHSL 2020 T-1
malicious in SSC previous-year questions
- SSC CHSL 2025 T-1 Synonyms
Select the most appropriate synonym of the word: PERNICIOUS
Answer & explanation
Answer: C) Malicious
Correct Answer: Option 3 — "Malicious"
"Pernicious" = having a harmful effect, especially in a gradual or subtle way; causing great harm, ruin, or death; insidiously destructive.
"Malicious" = having or showing a desire to cause harm or damage to others; intended to do harm; deliberately harmful. ✓
Both 'pernicious' and 'malicious' describe things that are harmful and damaging. ✓
Etymology: 'Pernicious' comes from Latin ' perniciosus ' = destructive (from ' pernicies ' = ruin, destruction). ✓
Why other options are wrong:
Option 1 'Harmless' = not able or likely to cause harm; the ANTONYM of pernicious. ✗
Option 2 'Benevolent' = well meaning and kindly; charitable; the ANTONYM of pernicious (
malicious – questions
Has malicious been asked in SSC exams?
Yes – malicious has been asked 2 times in SSC exams: SSC CHSL 2025 T-1, SSC CHSL 2020 T-1.