Question

Choose the word which is opposite in meaning to the given word.
BRILLIANT
a. Dusty
b. Dull
c. Dumb
d. Dud

Answer 1

Hint: Antonyms are used to refer to words having the exact opposite meaning to the one in question. When applied to the sentence, it can reverse the meaning that is to be implied. Brilliant refers to someone or something that is lustrous and shines brightly; can also pertain to high intelligence or good quality. Brilliance is often associated with positive terms highlighting the good attributes of someone or something.

Complete answer:
Now, considering the above options,
- Dusty: Something that is of the nature of dust; when sheathed or covered by dust. Eg: The windows are dusty.
- Dull: Refers to something that lacks lustre; is not lively; is not at all bright; something that is dull in nature. This is the most suitable antonym for brilliant. Eg: He has a dull character and is quite anti-social.
- Dumb: The word usually refers to people who cannot speak; it can also highlight meanings such as dull-witted or silent. Eg: He is dumb when it comes to socialising with the crowd.
- Dud: This often defines a failure, for example, a rocket that failed to go beyond the atmosphere; it can refer to people as well. Eg: The new drug turned out to be a dud.

> Hence, Option b is the answer. This is because dull provides the exact opposite definition for the word brilliant.

Note: Dull and dud may be confusing as to which suits best. But, we are not talking about the peak of brilliance.