Choose the correct alternative for the underlined words in the following sentences :
a. I had a brief look at the report.
b. It was my brief to make sure that the facts were set down accurately.
c. I was briefed about the incident.
d. Introduction was brief and polite.
Answer options :

The correct answer is Option A (short, instruction, informed, succinct).

Key Points:
• This question evaluates the candidate's understanding of Semantics and the multiple contextual meanings of a single word (Polysemy), a nuanced vocabulary skill frequently tested in MPSC exams.
• Option 1 is the correct answer according to the official MPSC answer key. The word 'brief' alters its meaning based on context. In sentence (a), 'brief look' means a 'short' look. In sentence (b), 'my brief' acts as a noun meaning a duty or 'instruction'. In sentence (c), the verb 'briefed' means to be 'informed'. In sentence (d), a 'brief' introduction means it was concise or 'succinct'.
• Let us analyze why the other options fail. Option 2 uses 'scanty', which implies insufficiency rather than shortness. Option 3 uses 'lengthy' for sentence (d), which is the exact antonym of brief. Option 4 uses 'advise' and 'instruct' incorrectly concerning grammatical tense and exact semantic match.
• A common MPSC trap is providing synonyms that fit grammatically but distort the nuanced meaning (like using 'scanty' instead of 'short').
• Mastering polysemous words requires reading them in varied sentence structures.
• Key Takeaway: Remember: The word 'brief' can function as an adjective (short, succinct), a noun (instruction/duty), or a verb (to inform).