Question

Opposite word to “Philistine” is
A) Official
B) Novice
C) Pious
D) Intellectual

Answer 1

Hint: In the given question we have to choose from the above options, an option which best expresses the opposite meaning of the word ‘ Philistine’ . Philistine refers to a person who has dislike or who is indifferent towards intellect, cultural values, artistic movements etc. It can refer to someone from Philistia. It can also refer to someone who is excessively ordinary.

Complete answer:
Before choosing an option let us first understand the meaning of the given options-
A) Official: It can refer to a person or a work which is formal in nature or which is related to the office. As a person we can use the word to refer to some office bearer or administrator etc. whereas any ceremonious or formal office work refers to official work
B) Novice: It refers to a person who is a beginner or a new learner and lacks experience.
C) Pious:It refers to something or someone that/who is holy or religious. It can also refer to a hope that is not likely to get fulfilled.
D) Intellectual: It refers to a person who is very knowledgeable, rational and a careful thinker.

The correct answer is Intellectual. Philistine refers to a person who has a dislike towards intellect whereas intellectual refers to a person who craves for intellect. Therefore, the opposite word to ‘Philistine’ is ‘Intellectual’.

Thus the correct answer is option ‘D’.

Note: Philistine can function both as a noun and an adjective. As a noun the word philistine refers to a person whereas as an adjective it tells about the quality of being excessively ordinary. Whereas, Intellectual only functions as a noun as it is used to refer to a person.