Question

Choose the word that is opposite in meaning to the given word.
REWARD
a)Demotion
b)Forfeiture
c)Penalty
d)Redistribution

Answer 1

Hint: Reward refers to giving an award or honour to someone in recognition of their service or achievement.

Complete step-by-step answer:

 The word reward has been derived from the Old French word- Reguard, which means to regard.
We know the meaning and the origin of the word reward. Now, let’s look at its usage:
Example- The young boy was rewarded for his bravery. Here, we can understand that X was honored or awarded for his bravery.
Let’s examine the given options:
a)Demotion- It refers to the reduction in rank or job title. It is different in meaning to reward. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
b)Forfeiture- It means to lose or surrender something. It is different in meaning to reward. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
c)Penalty- It refers to a sentence or a punishment that someone is given for committing a crime or an action against the law. It is the opposite in meaning to reward. Hence, it is the correct option.
d)Redistribution- It refers to distributing something in a specific way to achieve social equality. It is different in meaning to reward. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
The correct answer is Option ‘c’.

Note: A penalty can be given to a person in the form of a fine. The term ‘penalty’ is also used in games when a player breaks a rule, he/she is given a penalty.