Question

Choose the word which is closest to the opposite in meaning to the italicized word-
Mahatma Gandhi said that compassion is more important than truth.

a) Violence
b) Incivility
c) Callousness
d) Hardihood

Answer 1

Hint: Compassion refers to the quality of feeling sympathetic or empathetic towards others.

Complete answer:

The word ‘compassion’ has been derived from the Latin word- compati, which means to suffer with.

We know the meaning and the origin of the word ‘compassion’. Now, let’s look at its usage:
Example- The old lady treats others with compassion and humility. Here, we can understand that the old lady treats others with kindness and warmth.
Let’s examine the given options-
a) Violence- It refers to being brutal or ferocious with the motive of hurting others. It is different in meaning to compassion. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Example- The government has initiated a new policy to eradicate violence.
b) Incivility- It refers to someone who is disrespectful or rude towards others. It is different in meaning to compassion. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Example- The school does not tolerate incivility.
c) Callousness- It refers to being insensitive towards others and their feelings. It is opposite in meaning to compassion. Hence, it is the correct option.
Example- The corrupt politician was called out for his callousness.
d) Hardihood- It refers to being brave or bold. It is different in meaning to compassion. Hence, it is an incorrect option
Example- The soldier was awarded for the hardihood.
The correct answer is Option ‘c’.

Note: Callousness doesn’t involve the action of being violent or brutal towards someone. It only refers to the quality of being insensitive towards others’ sufferings or feelings.