Kaplan Nursing Entrance Practice Exam

What does the term 'querulous' refer to?

1. A complainer, argumentative

2. A silent observer

3. A diligent worker

4. A cheerful participant

The correct answer is: A complainer, argumentative

The term 'querulous' refers to a tendency to complain in a way that is petulant or whiny. It describes someone who is often argumentative or finds fault with things, expressing dissatisfaction or annoyance frequently. This aligns precisely with the description of a complainer who exhibits a negative and critical attitude towards various situations or people. Understanding the context of the other terms provides clarity: a silent observer would imply someone who is quiet and not expressing any complaints or issues; a diligent worker denotes someone who is hard-working and focused on tasks without engaging in complaints; while a cheerful participant suggests a person who is involved and positive, likely not adopting a negative or complainer demeanor. Therefore, the definition of 'querulous' distinctly fits the characteristic of being a complainer.