Question

Choose the word that gives the antonym of the word italicized.
His vindictive nature often came up for comment among his friends.
a)Timid
b)Obedient
c)Forgiving
d)Forgetful

Answer 1

Hint: An antonym refers to a word that is different in meaning to another word. Example- Weak is the antonym of strong.

Complete step-by-step answer:

Vindictive refers to someone who is unforgiving or holds a strong desire to seek revenge. The word vindictive has been derived from the Latin word- Vindicta, which means vengeance.
We know the meaning and the origin of the word, vindictive. Now, let’s look at its usage:
Example- His ex-wife became increasingly vindictive after their divorce. Here, we can understand Y’s ex-wife became revengeful and unforgiving after their divorce.
Let’s examine the given options:
a)Timid- It refers to someone who is faint-hearted or lacks courage. It is different in meaning to vindictive. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
b)Obedient- It refers to someone who is compliant or disciplined. It is different in meaning to vindictive. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
c)Forgiving- It refers to someone who is merciful or compassionate. It is opposite in meaning to vindictive. Hence, it is the correct option.
d)Forgetful- It refers to someone who is careless or absent-minded. It is different in meaning to vindictive. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
The correct answer is Option ‘c’.

Note: Do not get confused between the given options. Carefully understand the meaning of vindictive and thereafter, remove the words that hold a different meaning from it.