What word is used incorrectly in the sentence: "The advent of the rifle and of the lawless skin hunter soon turned all big game into fugitives of excessive shyness and wariness?"

In the given sentence, the word "excessive" is used incorrectly because it implies an overwhelming degree of shyness and wariness that may not accurately reflect the behavior of big game animals as a direct response to the presence of hunters and rifles. While animals may indeed become more cautious or alert due to threats, describing their behavior as "excessive" suggests an unnatural or exaggerated response that isn't typically part of their behavior in a balanced ecosystem.

The other words in the sentence fit appropriately within the context. "Advent" refers to the arrival of something significant, which is relevant to the introduction of rifles and hunters. "Lawless" accurately describes hunters who engage in illegal practices, while "turned" appropriately indicates a change in the status of wildlife due to external factors. Thus, the term "excessive" stands out as the one that is incorrectly applied.