Directions: Each item in this section consists of an underlined word in given sentences. Each sentence is followed by four words. Select the word which is most nearly opposite in meaning to the underlined word. He was engrossed in his work when I walked in.
inattentive
Understanding the Word "Engrossed"
The question asks for the word that is most nearly opposite in meaning to the underlined word "engrossed" in the sentence: "He was engrossed in his work when I walked in."
Let's first understand the meaning of "engrossed". When someone is engrossed in something, it means they are giving their complete attention to it. They are deeply absorbed or occupied with whatever they are doing. They are so focused that they might not notice what is happening around them.
In the given sentence, "He was engrossed in his work" implies he was completely focused on his work, paying full attention to it.
Analyzing the Options for Opposite Meaning
We need to find the word among the given options that means the opposite of being completely focused or deeply absorbed.
- occupied: This means being busy or engaged in something. This is similar in meaning to "engrossed", not opposite.
- inattentive: This means not paying attention, negligent, or careless. This is the opposite of being fully focused or attentive.
- engaged: This means involved or busy with something. This is similar in meaning to "engrossed", not opposite.
- absent: This means not present in a place, at an occasion, or in a group. While someone who is absent cannot be engrossed in work *at that location*, "absent" is not the direct opposite of being mentally focused or absorbed. It describes physical presence, not mental state regarding a task.
Let's compare "engrossed" (deeply attentive, absorbed) with the options:
| Word | Meaning | Relation to "Engrossed" |
|---|---|---|
| Engrossed | Giving complete attention; deeply absorbed | Original word |
| Occupied | Busy; engaged | Similar meaning (synonym) |
| Inattentive | Not paying attention; negligent | Opposite meaning (antonym) |
| Engaged | Involved; busy | Similar meaning (synonym) |
| Absent | Not present | Unrelated meaning |
Based on the analysis, the word that is most nearly opposite in meaning to "engrossed" (deeply attentive) is "inattentive" (not paying attention).
Conclusion: Finding the Antonym of Engrossed
The word "engrossed" signifies a state of deep focus and complete attention. The opposite of this state is one where attention is not given, or is lacking. Among the provided options, "inattentive" precisely describes the lack of attention or focus. Therefore, "inattentive" is the most appropriate antonym for "engrossed".
Revision Table: Key Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning | Antonym Example |
|---|---|---|
| Engrossed | Deeply absorbed; giving full attention | Inattentive |
| Inattentive | Not paying attention | Attentive, Engrossed |
| Occupied | Busy; engaged | Free, Unoccupied |
| Engaged | Involved; busy | Free, Disengaged |
| Absent | Not present | Present |
Additional Information: Synonyms and Antonyms in Vocabulary Building
Understanding synonyms (words with similar meanings) and antonyms (words with opposite meanings) is a crucial part of building strong vocabulary. When you learn a new word like "engrossed", it is helpful to also learn its synonyms (e.g., absorbed, preoccupied, captivated, focused) and antonyms (e.g., inattentive, distracted, indifferent, bored). This helps you understand the word's nuances and use it correctly in various contexts. For example, while "occupied" and "engaged" are synonyms for "engrossed" in the sense of being busy, "engrossed" often implies a deeper level of mental focus and absorption.
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