Query about Question 1 from "(I'm Overwhelmed) Vocab Progress Quiz #1a" ; Need clarity here

GRE GRE Verbal Problem Solving
1

https://www.gregmat.com/quizzes/quiz/im-overwhelmed-vocab-progress-quiz-1 (Question 1)

Here the correct answer is A) simple, however E) inexpensive can also be the right choice? If austerity means lack of luxury, which can be characterized by high expense, then inexpensive is also a valid choice, no?

2

I think its better to avoid “can be” statements in general, usually you want direct synonyms or opposites, it’s better to pick options with that kind of logic.

Austere CAN mean inexpensive but it doesn’t have to be