Question

Select the option that means the opposite of the underlined word:
It was no altruistic motive that prompted him to help her.
A) Selfish
B) Inhuman
C) Brutal
D) Wicked

Answer 1

Hint: Antonyms or opposite words are those words that have to contrast, or the opposite, meanings. For example- The opposite of humane is cruel. Altruism means showing a selfless concern for the welfare of others.

Complete answer:
The word ‘altruism’ has been derived from a Latin word- altrui, meaning “other people”. An altruist (noun) is a person who does things that are meant to increase human well-being. Altruistic (adjective) means acting in a way like an altruist.
Option A. Selfish: If we describe someone as selfish, we mean that he or she is bothered only about himself or herself, and not about others. For example- My colleague is a very selfish woman. This means exactly the opposite of being altruistic. Hence, it is the correct option.
Option B. Inhuman: If a person behaves in a way that shows no compassion and mercy, we could describe that person and his or her actions as inhuman. For example- The hospital staff was suspended for the inhuman treatment of the patients. ‘Inhuman’ is different in meaning to the given context. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option C. Brutal: A brutal person or act is defined as cruel and violent. For example- She performed a brutal act on the stage. ‘Brutal’ is different in meaning to the given context. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option D. Wicked: A wicked person is one who is evil or morally wrong. For example- The wicked politician was thrown into jail. 'Wicked' is different in meaning to the given context. Hence, it is an incorrect option.

Thus, the correct answer is Option A. Selfish

Note: Some other antonyms of altruistic are: uncharitable, stingy, insensitive etc., while some of its synonyms are selfless, kind, compassionate, generous etc.