Question

Select the antonym for the following word from the options given below:
GLOOMY
a. shadow
b. lowering
c. enlivening
d. cheering

Answer 1

Hint: Go through each option one by one, and try to understand the meaning of each option by using it in a sentence. Then, choose the option that has the exact opposite meaning of the given word.

Complete answer: An antonym is any word that is exactly the opposite in meaning to another word, in the same linguistic bracket. They express things that are opposite in meaning to each other. For example, the words ‘far’ and ‘near’ are antonyms of each other, as they convey opposite meanings. The word ‘gloomy’ refers to ‘causing or feeling depression or despondency’. This word is usually used as an adjective and its noun form is ‘gloom’.
Now, we know the meaning and usage of the word ‘gloomy’. Let’s look at our options:
a. shadow - The word ‘shadow’ refers to a dark area or shape produced by a body coming between rays of light and a surface', so this has a completely different meaning to the given word. It is not the antonym of the word ‘gloomy’. It is not the required answer. So, this is not the correct option.
b. lowering - The word ‘lowering’ refers to ‘the action of moving someone or something in a downward direction', so this has a completely different meaning to the given word. It is not the antonym of the word ‘gloomy’. It is not the required answer. So, this is not the correct option.
c. enlivening - The word ‘enlivening’ refers to ‘making (something) more entertaining, interesting, or appealing', so this has a completely different meaning to the given word. It is not the antonym of the word ‘gloomy’. It is not the required answer. So, this is not the correct option.
d. cheering - The word ‘cheering’ refers to ‘noticeably happy and optimistic', so this has the exact opposite meaning to the given word. It is the antonym of the word ‘gloomy’. It is the required answer. So, (d) is the correct option.

Note: Some frequently used synonyms of gloomy are melancholy, miserable, woebegone, mournful, sorrowful while antonyms are happy, cheerful, optimistic, upbeat etc.