Question

Choose the word opposite in meaning to the given word.
SYMPATHY
A. Enmity
B. Cruelty
C. Abhorrence
D. Apathy

Answer 1

Hint: Antonyms are the words that are opposite in meaning to another. The root words for the word ‘antonym’ are the words ‘anti’ meaning ‘against’ or ‘opposite’ and ‘onym’ meaning name. For instance: the antonym of ‘hot’ is ‘cold’.

Complete answer:
The meaning of the word Sympathy is feelings of pity and sorrow for someone else's misfortune. So, as per the question we must find the word which is opposite in meaning to the word Sympathy.

Option A) Enmity – this is an incorrect option because Enmity means a state or feeling of active opposition or hostility.

Option B) Cruelty – This is an incorrect option because Cruelty means behaviour which causes physical or mental harm to another, especially a spouse, whether intentionally or not.

Option C) Abhorrence – This is an incorrect option because Abhorrence means a feeling of revulsion; disgusted loathing.

Option D) Apathy – This is the correct option because Sympathy means 'pity' the opposite being apathy meaning 'lack of concern’. For example: There is a widespread apathy among students.
The right answer to this is option (D) Apathy.

Hence the correct answer is option ‘D’.

Note: Antonyms are the words that are opposite to each other i.e. antonyms of Sympathy is apathy, and synonyms are the words that are similar in meaning. So, the synonym of Sympathy is Pity. Thus, Option D is the most appropriate answer as compared to the other options as they do not have the opposite meaning to the given word.