Question

Choose the word which is closest to the opposite in meaning to the italicised word.
Silence in this place is mandatory.
A. Optional
B. Compulsory
C. Imperative
D. Irritating

Answer 1

Hint:The italicised word in the given sentence is ‘mandatory’. The word ‘mandatory’ means something which is a compulsion, ordered authoritatively, obligatory. Example: It is mandatory to wear the seat belt. We will look for an option which has a contrary meaning to the mentioned meaning of the word ‘mandatory’.

Complete answer:
Let us analyse each option individually to figure out the correct answer.

Optional- The word ‘optional’ means something which is not compulsory, something for which we have other alternative choices too. Example: It is optional to register your phone number. This word means the contrary of the word ‘mandatory’ as it is significant from the hint. Therefore, this is the correct option.

Compulsory - The word ‘compulsory’ means something which is obligatory, ordered by a power or an authority, for which you don’t have any other alternative. This word does not mean the opposite of the given word. ‘mandatory’. Therefore, this is not the correct option.

Imperative - The word ‘ imperative’ means something which is absolutely necessary, something which can’t be avoided. Example- If you want the job, this interview is imperative. This word does not mean the opposite of the given word. ‘mandatory’. Therefore, this is not the correct option.

Irritating - The word ‘irritating’ means annoying, something which is provoking. Example- Nail biting is an irritating habit. This word does not mean the opposite of the given word. ‘mandatory’. Therefore, this is not the correct option.

Hence, the correct answer is option A.

Note: The sentence given in the question means that silence is a must in a particular place. The words ‘compulsory’ and ‘imperative’ are similar in meaning to the word ‘mandatory’. Therefore they are synonyms of each other. Some antonyms of the word ‘mandatory’ are free, secondary, unnecessary. These words are synonyms of the word ‘optional’. Example: Your driving licence is secondary, we need to undertake your passport first.