Question

Against the given word, there are some alternatives, one of which is either similar in meaning (synonym) or opposite in meaning (antonym) to the word. Find out which of the given alternatives is either a synonym or an antonym of the word.
CHURLISH
a) Coarse
b) Modest
c) Niggardly
d) Courteous

Answer 1

Hint: Churlish refers to the quality of being rude and ill-mannered. Synonyms are words that are closest in meaning to another word, whereas Antonyms are words that are contrary in meaning to another word.

Complete step by step answer:
 The word ‘Churlish’ has been derived from the Old English word- Cierlisc.
We know the meaning and the origin of the word ‘churlish’. Now, let’s look at its usage-
Example: The teacher scolded the student for being churlish towards the sweeper. Here, we can understand that the teacher, ‘X’ scolded the student, ‘Y’ for being rude and impolite towards the sweeper.
Let’s decipher the meaning of the given options-
Option a- ‘Coarse’ refers to the rude or ill-mannered behavior or words of a person. Example- The principal presented a coarse speech in the assembly. ‘Coarse’ is similar in meaning to churlish. Hence, it is the correct option.
Option b- ‘Modest’ refers to being humble or timid of one’s merits and accomplishments. Example- She is a modest leader. ‘Modest’ is different in meaning to churlish. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option c- ‘Niggardly’ refers to being penny-pinching or greedy. Example- Our boss is a niggardly man. ‘Niggardly’ is different in meaning to churlish. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option d- ‘Courteous’ refers to being polite and well-mannered. Example- The newlywed couple is courteous and respectful of the customs. ‘Courteous’ is the opposite in meaning to churlish. Hence, it is the correct option.
The correct answer is Option ‘a’ and ‘d’.

Note:
Some commonly used synonyms of ‘churlish’ are rude, ill-tempered, impolite etc while some commonly used antonyms of ‘churlish’ are polite, civil, respectful, etc.