Question

Choose the word/phrase which is opposite in meaning to the italicized bold word/phrase in the sentence.
This is the cardinal point of the issue.
a) Minor
b) Vital
c) Debatable
d) Insignificant
e) Avoidable

Answer 1

Hint: The word ‘cardinal’ is an adjective that refers to something that is of primary importance or is fundamental.

Complete answer:
Option a ‘minor’ is an adjective that refers to something that is of lesser importance, seriousness, or of lesser significance.
Option b ‘vital’ is something that is necessary. For example, “Water and oxygen are vital for life.” This is synonymous with the word ‘cardinal’ not opposite in meaning. Thus, option ‘b’ is incorrect.
Option c ‘debatable’ refers to something that is questionable or something that can cause dispute over agreeableness. For example, “The state’s is debatable and could cause disharmony among the people.” This is not the opposite of the given word. Thus, the option ‘c’ is incorrect.
Option d ‘insignificant’ is an adjective that refers to something that is not worth one’s consideration or is too small.
Option e ‘avoidable’ is something that isn’t required or is needless. For example, “The argument was avoidable hadn’t you lost your temper.’ This is not the required word as it is unrelated to the given word. Thus, the option ‘e’ is incorrect.
Coming to option ‘a’ and ‘d’, Option d ‘insignificant’ is the most appropriate opposite of the word ‘cardinal’. Thus, option ‘d’ is the correct answer.

Note:
 Though minor too seems like the opposite of ‘cardinal’ as it holds a somewhat close meaning to that of insignificant but, ‘minor’ is the opposite of ‘major’ and ‘insignificant’ is the more appropriate opposite of the word ‘cardinal’.