English

The word 'gratuitous' primarily means something that is unnecessary, uncalled for, or without good reason. It can also mean given free of charge. Among the options given, 'Voluntary' is not a precise synonym because 'voluntary' means done by one's own will, which does not necessarily imply unnecessary or unwarranted. The other options 'Justified' and 'Shear' are unrelated. Therefore, none of the options A, B, or C accurately synonymize 'gratuitous'. The correct answer is 'D' (None of these).

The word 'Hue' means a shade or tint of a color, so its synonym is 'Color'. The other options do not relate to the meaning of 'Hue'.

The word 'furtive' means secretive or stealthy, so the synonym is 'Secretive'. The other options do not match the meaning of 'furtive'.

Egotism means an excessive sense of self-importance or self-conceit. Among the options, 'Self-Conceit' is the correct synonym, while the others are unrelated words.

The antonym of 'flippant' (which means not showing a serious or respectful attitude) is 'considerate,' meaning showing careful thought or regard for others. The other options do not convey the opposite meaning.

Acerbity means bitterness or harshness, especially in speech or temper. Its antonym is 'Gentleness,' which means kindness or mildness, making option C correct.

Contumacy means stubborn refusal to obey or comply, so its synonym is 'Stubbornness'. The other options do not relate to this meaning.

'Jeer' means to mock or make fun of someone, and 'Scoff' similarly means to mock or express derision. The other options do not have similar meanings.

The word 'dormant' means inactive or temporarily inactive. Its antonym is 'active,' which means currently in action or functioning. Among the options, 'active' is the correct opposite of 'dormant.'

Jonathan Swift is the author of the book 'A Tale of a Tub,' a satirical work published in the early 18th century. The other options are not associated with this book.