Question

Choose the word/phrase which is opposite in meaning to the italicized bold word/phrase in the sentence.
I was shocked to hear the scurrilous talks of the members of the Board.
a- Decent
b- Relevant
c- Accurate
d- Useful

Answer 1

Hint: An opposite or an antonym refers to a word that is contrasting in meaning to another word. For example, mild is an antonym for severe. ‘Scurrilous’ refers to disparaging or insulting someone to scandalize their reputation.

Complete answer:
The word, ‘scurrilous’ has been derived from the Latin word- Scurra, which means buffoon.
We know the meaning and the origin of the word, ‘scurrilous’. Now, let’s look at its usage:
For example- The government planted a scurrilous attack on the opposing party’s image. Here, we can comprehend that the government tried to disparage or abuse the image of the opposing party.
Let’s examine the meaning of the given options-
Option a- ‘Decent’ refers to the quality of being virtuous and thoughtful. Example- My grandmother met a decent boy on the bus. ‘Decent’ is opposite in meaning to ‘scurrilous’. Hence, it is the correct option.
Option b- ‘Relevant’ refers to something applicable or to the purpose. Example- They were asked to prepare relevant notes. ‘Relevant’ is different in meaning from ‘scurrilous’. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option c- ‘Accurate’ refers to something precise or error-free. Example- I provided accurate information to the officer. ‘Accurate’ is different in meaning from ‘scurrilous’. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option d- ‘Useful’ refers to something convenient or handy. Example- Notes are useful for exams. ‘Useful’ is different in meaning from ‘scurrilous’. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
The correct answer is Option ‘a’.

Note:
Some other antonyms of ‘scurrilous’ are; courteous, mannerly, polite, etc. While some synonyms of ‘scurrilous’ are; abusive, invective, truculent, etc.