Question

Choose the option which means the opposite of the given word: Shrill
a. Weak
b. Soft
c. Inaudible
d. Blunt

Answer 1

Hint: Opposite words are words whose meanings are the complete opposite of a given word. They are also known as antonyms.

Complete answer:
 Shrill refers to a sound that is high pitched and piercing. If something is shrill, it is blaring and loud. The word shrill is derived from the Germanic word schrell, which means to sharp in tone.
Let’s look at its usage.
Example – The shrill whistle declared the arrival of the train. Here, we can see that the high and piercing whistle declared the arrival of the train.
Let’s examine the given meanings.
Option a ‘weak’ means to be frail or feeble. This word is a distractor option as it isn’t the opposite of shrill. Therefore, it is an incorrect answer.
Option b ‘soft’ means in a quiet or gentle way. It is opposite in meaning to shrill. Therefore, it is the correct answer.
Option c ‘inaudible’ means unable to be heard. This word is a distractor option as it isn’t the opposite of shrill. Therefore, it is an incorrect answer.
Option d ‘blunt’ means to be uncompromisingly forthright. This word is a distractor option as it isn’t the opposite of shrill. Therefore, it is an incorrect answer.
Option ‘b’ is the correct answer.

Note: Let us look at the problematic aspects of this question. Students may select inaudible as the correct option. However, inaudible means to be devoid of sound whereas soft means to be of a low sound.