Which sentence uses the word abominable correctly? A. Derek treated his motorbike with abominable disregard. B. Derek completed his driving course in abominable time. C. Derek was abominable at himself for missing the bus. D. Derek thought of an abominable plan to help the homeless.
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: A. Derek treated his motorbike with abominable disregard.
Explanation (300 words):
The word “abominable” is an adjective that means extremely bad, unpleasant, or detestable. It is often used to describe actions, behaviors, or things that are morally offensive or repulsive. Its tone is strongly negative and suggests disgust or horror.
Let’s examine each sentence:
- A. Derek treated his motorbike with abominable disregard.
✅ This is the correct use. “Abominable disregard” implies that Derek showed a shocking or appalling level of neglect toward his motorbike. The phrase emphasizes how terrible or offensive his treatment of the motorbike was, aligning with the true meaning of “abominable.” - B. Derek completed his driving course in abominable time.
❌ Incorrect. The phrase “abominable time” is awkward and not standard usage. Time is usually described with words like “long,” “short,” “excellent,” or “record.” Saying “abominable time” could be intended to mean “a very bad time,” but it sounds unnatural and forced. A better word would be “terrible” or “slow.” - C. Derek was abominable at himself for missing the bus.
❌ Incorrect. The phrase “abominable at himself” is grammatically and semantically incorrect. You cannot be “abominable at” something, and people typically aren’t described as being “abominable” toward themselves. Perhaps the intended phrase was “angry with himself.” - D. Derek thought of an abominable plan to help the homeless.
❌ Incorrect. This is a contradiction. “Abominable” describes something morally wrong or offensive, while helping the homeless is generally viewed as a kind and generous act. Describing a good deed as “abominable” creates an illogical sentence.
In summary, Sentence A accurately uses “abominable” to describe shockingly poor or offensive treatment, making it the correct choice.