Question

Choose the word opposite in meaning to the italicized word:
The gatekeeper ought to be more vigilant these days.
a)Irresponsible
b)Ignorant
c)Careless
d)Innocent

Answer 1

Hint: Opposite meaning of a word indicates a word that does not share a similar meaning but shares a contrasting meaning to the word. So, you need to find something that contrasts in meaning with vigilant.

Complete step-by-step answer:

 Vigilant means – someone who is always carefully watching for possible dangers or difficulties. For e.g. she is a vigilant person or my dad is really vigilant.
If you look at the given options for the above-mentioned question, you will see that in option
a)Irresponsible means – not showing a proper sense of responsibility towards things.
b)Ignorant means – lack of knowledge or awareness in general.
c)Careless means – to not give sufficient attention to something that is important.
d)Innocent means – not guilty of a crime or offense.
As you can see, the correct option would be an option – c. As careless means the opposite of the word vigilant.
For e.g. A vigilant person is not careless and a careless is rarely vigilant.

Note: In situations where the meanings of the given options are not clear, use the elimination method and remove the words that you think are least likely to be right. That way you will have a clearer picture.