Question

Choose the word/ phrase that is opposite in meaning to the italicized bold word/ phrase in the sentence.
There has always been a feeling of rancour between the two families.
a) rivalry
b) competition
c) friendliness
d) suspicion

Answer 1

Hint: An opposite or antonym refers to a word that is contradicting in meaning to another word. Example- Loose is an antonym of tight. ‘Rancour’ refers to animosity or hostility towards someone or something, especially ill-will.

Complete answer:
The word ‘rancour’ has been derived from the Latin word- Rancidus, which means stinking.
We know the meaning and the origin of the word ‘rancour’. Now, let’s look at its usage-
Example- The teacher presented the speech with rancour. Here, we can conclude that a teacher, ‘X’ presented the speech with hostility or bitterness.
Let’s decipher the meaning of the given options-
Option a- ‘rivalry’ refers to contention or competition between different groups for a specific thing. ‘Rivalry’ is different in meaning to rancour. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option b- ‘competition’ refers to rivalry or battle between different groups for the same thing. ‘Competition’ is different in meaning to rancour. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option c- ‘friendliness’ refers to the quality of being affectionate and sociable. ‘Friendliness’ is opposite in meaning to rancour. Hence, it is the correct option.
Option d- ‘suspicion’ refers to the act of suspecting or doubting. ‘Suspicion’ is different in meaning to rancour. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
So, the correct answer is “Option c”.

Note:
Rancour can also be spelled as rancor but rancor is the latest form of the word. Some commonly used antonyms of ‘rancour’ are kindness, sympathy, loving, etc.