Which of the following is the correct synonym for 'PERNICIOUS' in the sentence: "The company’s pernicious policies slowly eroded employee morale"?
Correct: C
'Pernicious' means harming in a gradual or subtle way. 'Harmful in a sneaky way' fits best here. 'Beneficial' is the direct antonym. 'Subtle' and 'temporary' do not capture the harmful aspect of the word.