Question

Choose the word/phrase which is opposite in meaning to the bold italicized word/phrase in the sentence.
He has enrolled himself to an elementary course in computer.
a- Secondary
b- Tough
c- Advanced
d- Simple

Answer 1

Hint: An opposite or an antonym is a word that is contrary in meaning to another word. For example, similar is an antonym for different. ‘Elementary’ refers to something that is easy and basic.

Complete answer:
 The word, ‘elementary’ has been derived from the Latin word- Elementum, which means principle.
We know the meaning and the origin of the word, ‘elementary’. Now, let’s look at its usage:
For example- My son has started going to an elementary school. Here, we can understand that X’s son has started attending the basic level of school.
Let’s decipher the meaning of the given options-
Option a- ‘Secondary’ refers to something that is minor and belongs to the lower-level. For example- I have just completed secondary school. ‘Secondary’ is different in meaning to ‘elementary’. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option b- ‘Tough’ refers to something that is difficult and strenuous. Example- The maths paper was very tough. ‘Tough’ is different in meaning to ‘elementary’. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option c- ‘Advanced’ refers to something that is ahead or superior in knowledge and skill. For example- I have been thinking of joining an advanced dance class. ‘Advanced’ is opposite in meaning to ‘elementary’. Hence, it is the correct option.
Option d- ‘Simple’ refers to something that is basic or uncomplicated. Example- I tried to explain it in simple steps. ‘Simple’ is similar in meaning to ‘elementary’. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
So, the correct answer is “Option c”.

Note:
Some other commonly used opposites of ‘elementary’ are; complicated, hard, compound, etc. While some commonly used synonyms of ‘elementary’ are; facile, fundamental, rudimentary, etc.