Below are some alternatives which may be used to improve the sentence by…
2026
Below are some alternatives which may be used to improve the sentence by replacing the word in bold. Choose the most appropriate alternative from the options given below.
He was so proliferate that he recklessly spent all his inheritance.
- A.
Profligate
- B.
Proportionate
- C.
Promiscuous
- D.
Prolonged
Attempted by 9 students.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
In sentence-improvement and contextual-vocabulary questions, the replacement word must match not just the general topic but the precise connotation the context demands — distinguishing words that look or sound similar but carry different core meanings.
Here, 'proliferate' means to increase or multiply rapidly in number — it does not describe a manner of spending. The sentence needs a word meaning 'recklessly wasteful with money,' which is exactly what 'profligate' means.
Proportionate — corresponding in size or degree; describes a relationship between quantities, not spending behaviour.
Promiscuous — indiscriminate, typically in relationships; unrelated to financial conduct.
Prolonged — extended in duration; addresses time, not the manner of spending.
Since only 'profligate' captures the reckless, wasteful spending described, it is the correct replacement for 'proliferate.'