Question

Choose the word which is closest to the opposite in meaning to the italicized word.
Her debonair manners were noticed by everyone present in the city.
a- Stiff
b- Clumsy
c- Courteous
d- Pleasant

Answer 1

Hint: An antonym or an opposite is a word that is opposing in meaning to another word. For example, strong is an antonym for weak. ‘Debonair’ refers to the quality of being chivalrous, confident, and well-groomed.

Complete answer:
The word, ‘debonair’ has been derived from the French word- De Bon Aire, which means of good disposition.
We know the meaning and the origin of the word, ‘debonair’. Now, let’s look at its usage:
For example- The groom looked debonair and dashing in his tuxedo. Here, we can conclude that a groom, X, looked confident and well-groomed in his tuxedo.
Let’s decipher the meaning of the given options-
Option a- ‘Stiff’ refers to someone or something that is severe and rigorous. Example- The students might face stiff punishment for their actions. ‘Stiff’ is different in meaning from ‘debonair’. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option b- ‘Clumsy’ refers to the quality of being ungraceful and awkward. Example- She looked clumsy in the giant coat. ‘Clumsy’ is opposite in meaning from ‘debonair’. Hence, it is the correct option.
Option c- ‘Courteous’ refers to someone who is well-mannered and polite. Example- The judge was courteous and sensible. ‘Courteous’ is different in meaning from ‘debonair’. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option d- ‘Pleasant’ refers to something that is enjoyable and pleasing. Example- She gave us a pleasant surprise. ‘Pleasant’ is different in meaning from ‘debonair’. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
The correct answer is Option ‘b’.

Note:
Some other antonyms of ‘debonair’ are; awkward, unsophisticated, inelegant, etc. Some synonyms of ‘debonair’ are; dashing, suave, urbane, etc.