What is the closest synonym for "scathing" in this sentence?

Question

The critic offered a(n) scathing review of the new play, leaving the playwright feeling utterly demoralized.

a) flattering

b) tepid

c) harsh

d) vague

1. c) harsh

Here's why the other options are not as fitting:

1. Flattering: This means expressing praise or admiration, which is the opposite of scathing.
2. Tepid: This implies lukewarm or lacking enthusiasm, which doesn't convey the strong negative criticism of "scathing."
3. Vague: This means unclear or ambiguous, and doesn't capture the severity of a scathing review.

Answer 1

"Scathing" means scornful or severely critical, so the closest synonym is c) harsh, which means cruel or severe.

"Flattering" means praising or complimenting, the opposite of scathing. "Tepid" means unenthusiastic, and "vague" means ambiguous, indefinite, or unclear. Although these two words can have negative connotations, they are not as severe as the implications of the word "scathing."

Answer 2

c) harsh; used to describe treatment or behavior that is unkind, cruel, or unnecessarily extreme, such as a harsh punishment or harsh criticism

Answer 3

I have a bit of a "scathing" review of this question: it already came with an explanation of answer, on a message board for seeking new information—so the question being asked is subsequently "vague"! A bit odd, though I'm glad to see you already have a strong lexical skillset. :)

Answer 4

C) harsh is the correct answer

Answer 5

scathing = harsh

not tepid, flattering or vague

scathing & harsh are very negative

vague is neutral, unclear

flattering is positive

tepid is slightly positive

Answer 6

1. c) harsh

Here's why the other options are not as fitting:

1.  Flattering: This means expressing praise or admiration, which is the opposite of scathing.
2.  Tepid: This implies lukewarm or lacking enthusiasm, which doesn't convey the strong negative criticism of "scathing."
3.  Vague: This means unclear or ambiguous, and doesn't capture the severity of a scathing review.