Question

Choose the word which is closest to the opposite in meaning to the italicized word.
He proved utterly capricious in his dealings with his friends.
A. Helpful
B. Steadfast
C. Understanding
D. Obstinate

Answer 1

Hint:Antonyms are the words that are opposite in meaning to another. The root words for the word ‘antonym’ are the words ‘anti’ meaning ‘against’ or ‘opposite’ and ‘onym’ meaning name. For instance: the antonym of ‘hot’ is ‘cold’.

Complete answer:
The meaning of the word Capricious is given to sudden and unaccountable changes of mood or behaviour. So, as per the question we must find the word which is opposite in meaning to the word Capricious.
Option A) Helpful – This option is not correct because the meaning of helpful is giving or ready to give help. This is not opposite to the meaning of the word capricious. Hence, it is an incorrect option.

Option B) Steadfast – This option is correct because the meaning of steadfast is resolutely or dutifully firm and unwavering. This is opposite to the meaning of Capricious. Hence, it is a correct option.

Option C) Understanding – This option is not correct because meaning of understanding is the ability to understand something; comprehension. This is not opposite in meaning to the word capricious. Hence, it is an incorrect option.

Option D) Obstinate – This option is not correct because the meaning of Obstinate is stubbornly refusing to change one's opinion or chosen course of action, despite attempts to persuade one to do so. This is not opposite in meaning to the word capricious. Hence, it is an incorrect option.

Hence the correct answer is option ‘B’.

Note: Antonyms are the words that are opposite to each other i.e. antonym of Capricious is Steadfast, and synonyms are the words that are similar in meaning. So, the synonym of Capricious is Fickle. Thus, Option B is the most appropriate answer as compared to the other options as they do not have the opposite meaning to the given word.