Which word does NOT belong with the others? guitar, flute, violin, cello

Given data

• Word list: guitar, flute, violin, cello.

Concept/Approach
Classify by instrument family and sound production. Three are string instruments; one is a woodwind.

Step-by-Step reasoning
Guitar – strings plucked/strummed. Violin – bowed string instrument. Cello – bowed string instrument. Flute – air column vibration (woodwind), no strings.

Verification/Alternative
Remove 'flute' and all remaining items fit the 'string' family; swapping in 'clarinet' would again be the odd one out.

Common pitfalls

• Grouping by playing posture (standing/sitting) instead of sound mechanism.

Final Answer
flute