In the following items a word is followed by four explanatory expressions.…

2016

In the following items a word is followed by four explanatory expressions. Choose the expression that explains the given word correctly.
Philistine:

  1. A.

    one who is a fine judge of literature or art.

  2. B.

    one who is a novice as far as art and literature are concerned

  3. C.

    one who is devoted to music

  4. D.

    one who does not like or understand art, literature or music

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Correct answer: D

Correct meaning: a person who is indifferent to or dismissive of culture, art, or intellectual pursuits.

Why the other explanations are incorrect:

  • The phrase 'one who is a fine judge of literature or art' describes a connoisseur or aesthete, which is the opposite of a philistine.

  • The phrase 'one who is a novice as far as art and literature are concerned' refers to inexperience, whereas a philistine is defined by indifference or hostility, not mere lack of experience.

  • The phrase 'one who is devoted to music' describes a music enthusiast, which does not match the meaning of philistine.

Memory tip: Think of 'philistine' as someone who is uninterested in or dismissive of cultural or artistic values—an uncultured or material-minded person when it comes to the arts.

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