Question

Choose the word/ phrase which is opposite in meaning to the italicized word/ phrase in the sentence.
I think this would be a quixotic project for me.
Option a- Wasteful
Option b- Profitable
Option c- Fantastic
Option d- Practical

Answer 1

Hint: An antonym or an opposite refers to a word that is opposing in meaning to another word. Example- Pleasant is an antonym of unpleasant. ‘Quixotic’ refers to the quality of being unrealistic or a visionary.

Complete answer:
The word ‘quixotic’ has been derived from the English word- Don Quixote + ic.
We know the meaning and the origin of the word ‘quixotic’. Now, let’s look at its usage:
Example- Everyone criticized her and termed her as a quixotic for choosing this work line. Here, we can conclude that ‘X’ was criticized and called an unrealistic or visionary person for choosing this work line.
Let’s examine the given options-
Option a- ‘Wasteful’ refers to the careless or reckless use of something. Example- The ministers were called out for wasteful use of money. ‘Wasteful’ is different in meaning to quixotic. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option b- ‘Profitable’ refers to a business or an activity that is successful or cost-effective. Example- My mother works for a profitable company. ‘Profitable’ is different in meaning to quixotic. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option c- ‘Fantastic’ refers to something that is remarkable or impressive. Example- The student did a fantastic job on the painting. ‘Fantastic’ is different in meaning to quixotic. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option d- ‘Practical’ refers to someone or something that is sensible or realistic. Example- The boss asked us to be practical about the meeting. ‘Practical’ is the opposite in meaning to quixotic. Hence, it is the correct option.

The correct answer is Option ‘d’.

Note: Do not get confused between antonyms and opposites, as both have the same function. Some commonly used antonyms of ‘quixotic’ are thoughtful, realistic, cautious, etc.