Question

Choose the word/phrase which is opposite in meaning to the italicized word/phrase in the sentence.

Our knowledge of the past is still largely a matter of informed conjecture.
A. Guess
B. Position
C. Certainty
D. Form

Answer 1

Hint:Antonyms are the words that are opposite in meaning to another. The root words for the word 'antonym' are the words 'anti' meaning 'against' or 'opposite' and 'onym' meaning 'name’. For instance: the antonym of ‘hot’ is ‘cold’.

Complete answer:
The meaning of word conjecture is an opinion or conclusion formed based on incomplete information. So, as per the question, we must find the word which is opposite in meaning to the word conjecture.
Option A) Guess - It is an incorrect option because the meaning of guess is an estimate or conclusion (something) without sufficient information to be sure of being correct which is not opposed to the meaning of the given word. Hence it is an incorrect option.
Option B) Position- It is an incorrect option because the meaning of position is a place where someone or something is located or has been put which is not opposed to the meaning of the given word. Hence it is an incorrect option.
Option C) Certainty – It is a correct option because the meaning of Certainty is the firm conviction that something is the case, the state of being completely confident, or having no doubt about something opposite to the meaning of conjecture. Hence this option fits the best.
Option D) Form- It is an incorrect option because the meaning of form is the visible shape or configuration of something which is not opposed to the meaning of the given word. Hence it is an incorrect option.

Hence, the correct answer is option ‘C’.

Note:Antonyms are the words that are opposite to each other i.e. antonym of conjecture is certainty and synonyms are the words that are similar in meaning. So, the synonyms of conjecture guess, belief. Thus, Option C is the most appropriate answer as compared to the other.