Question

Choose the word opposite in meaning to the given word:
RESPECT

a)hostility
b)diffidence
c)apathy
d)contempt

Answer 1

Hint: The word ‘respect’ refers to ‘a feeling of deep admiration for someone or something elicited by their abilities, qualities, or achievements'. It is usually used as a noun and as a verb.

Complete answer:

The word ‘respect’ can be used in a sentence as follows:
For example, in the sentence ‘The business partners had mutual respect for each other’, the word ‘respect’ describes the reverence that the business partners have, and hence, the level of trust. The word ‘respect’ provides a context for the sentence.

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

a)hostility - The word ‘hostility’ refers to ‘unfriendliness or opposition'. This has a very different meaning to the word ‘respect’. It is not the required answer. So, this is an incorrect option.
b)diffidence - The word ‘diffidence’ refers to ‘modesty or shyness resulting from a lack of self-confidence'. This has a completely different meaning to the given word. It is not the required answer. So, this is an incorrect option.
c)apathy - The word ‘apathy’ refers to ‘lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern'. This also has a different meaning to the given word. It is not the required answer. So, this is also an incorrect option.
d)contempt - The word ‘contempt’ refers to ‘the feeling that a person or a thing is worthless or beneath consideration'. This has the exact opposite meaning to the given word. It is the required answer. So, this is the correct option.

Note: Try to guess the meaning of the given word. Use it in a sentence to fully understand the meaning. Look through the options and then try to find the word that is the opposite in meaning to the given word, i.e. an antonym.