Question

Choose the word opposite in meaning to the italicized word:
After meeting the holy man, his mood of diffidence suddenly changed.

a) confusion
b) self-assurance
c) contentment
d) consternation

Answer 1

Hint: The word ‘diffidence’ refers to ‘modesty or shyness resulting from a lack of self-confidence'. This word is usually used as a noun.

Complete answer:
In the given sentence, the word ‘diffidence’ is used as a noun denoting the characteristic of a subject.
In the sentence, after an event takes place, there is a change in the subject’s behavior. That is, when the subject makes his acquaintance with a holy man, his mood experiences a change. The man’s behavior changes. From this, we can deduce that the word ‘diffidence’ has to do with the behavior of the man.

Now, we know the meaning and context of the given word. Let’s look at the available options:

a) confusion - The word ‘confusion’ refers to ‘uncertainty about what is happening, intended, or required'. This word has a very different meaning to the given word, and so, it is not the opposite of the given word. It is not the required answer. So, this is an incorrect option.
b) self-assurance - The word ‘self-assurance’ refers to ‘confidence in one's own abilities or character'. This word has the exact opposite meaning to the given word. It is the opposite of the given word. This is the required answer. So, this is the correct option.
c) contentment - The word ‘contentment’ refers to ‘a state of happiness and satisfaction'. This word has a completely different meaning to the given word. It is not the opposite. This is not the required answer. So, this is an incorrect option.
d) consternation - The word ‘consternation’ refers to ‘a feeling of anxiety or dismay, typically at something unexpected'. This word also has a very different meaning to the given word. This is not the opposite of the given word. This is not the required answer. So, this is an incorrect option.

Note:
Try to use the given words in the options in sentences, in order to understand their complete meaning. Then, understand the context of the given sentence. Then, choose the required answer accordingly.