From the lettered A to E below the sentence, choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined expression as it is used in the sentence.
The principal's orders are imperative.
A
lenient
B
authoritative
C
genuine
D
optional
E
necessary
Verified Correct Answer: E.
Grammar & Contextual Explanation
In this context, imperative means very important and must be obeyed—something that is necessary or compulsory. "Necessary" best captures the meaning of imperative—something that must be done. Authoritative is close, but not quite the same. It means having authority or command, but it doesn’t fully capture the idea of necessity or urgency.
Source: Myschool Past Questions Archive (Record #23260)