Directions: Each item in this section consists of a sentence with an underlined word/words followed by four options. Select the option that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word/words and mark your response in your Answer Sheet accordingly. The student made a generous contribution to the flood relief fund.
niggardly
Finding the Opposite Meaning of Generous
The question asks us to find the word or words that are opposite in meaning to the underlined word 'generous' in the sentence, "The student made a generous contribution to the flood relief fund." This means we need to identify the antonym of 'generous' from the given options.
Let's break down the meaning of the word 'generous' and then examine each option.
Meaning of Generous
The word 'generous' describes someone who is willing to give freely or liberally, especially money, time, or help. It implies kindness and unselfishness in sharing with others.
Analyzing the Options to Find the Antonym of Generous
We need to find the word that means the opposite of giving freely or being liberal with resources.
- niggardly: This word means stingy or ungenerous. A niggardly person is reluctant to give or spend.
- selfish: This word describes someone who is primarily concerned with their own pleasure, profit, or welfare, without regard for others. While related to not being generous, it focuses more on self-interest rather than the act of giving itself.
- spendthrift: This word describes a person who spends money carelessly or wastefully. This is the opposite of being frugal or thrifty, not necessarily the opposite of being generous.
- indecent: This word means not conforming to accepted standards of behavior or morality; offensive. This meaning is completely unrelated to generosity or giving.
Comparing the options, 'niggardly' directly describes the opposite behaviour of 'generous' in the context of giving – it means giving little or nothing, being stingy. 'Selfish' is related but not a direct antonym for the act of giving liberally. 'Spendthrift' and 'indecent' are not antonyms of 'generous'.
Therefore, the most fitting opposite for 'generous' among the given options is 'niggardly'. A generous contribution is large and freely given, while a niggardly contribution would be small or unwillingly given.
| Word | Meaning | Relationship to Generous |
|---|---|---|
| Generous | Giving freely and liberally; unselfish | The word in question |
| Niggardly | Stingy; not generous; reluctant to give or spend | Opposite of Generous |
| Selfish | Concerned primarily with oneself; lacking consideration for others | Related concept, but not a direct antonym for giving freely |
| Spendthrift | A person who spends money wastefully | Opposite of thrifty/frugal, not Generous |
| Indecent | Not proper or moral; offensive | Unrelated to Generous |
Conclusion on the Antonym of Generous
Based on the analysis of the options, the word that is opposite in meaning to 'generous' is 'niggardly'.
Revision Table: Understanding Antonyms
| Word | Meaning | Antonym Example |
|---|---|---|
| Generous | Freely giving | Niggardly (Stingy) |
| Happy | Feeling or showing pleasure | Sad (Feeling or showing sorrow) |
| Big | Of considerable size | Small (Of limited size) |
| Fast | Moving or capable of moving at high speed | Slow (Moving or operating at low speed) |
Additional Information: Exploring Synonyms and Antonyms
Understanding synonyms (words with similar meanings) and antonyms (words with opposite meanings) is crucial for building vocabulary. For the word 'generous', some synonyms include liberal, munificent, bountiful, open-handed, and charitable. The antonyms include niggardly, stingy, mean, parsimonious, and cheap.
Recognizing the context in which a word is used helps determine the most appropriate synonym or antonym. In the context of making a 'contribution', 'generous' implies giving a substantial amount freely. Its opposite in this context is someone who gives very little or is unwilling to give, which is precisely what 'niggardly' means.
Important Questions from Synonyms or Antonyms
Directions: Each item in this section consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four options, (a), (b), (c) and (d). Select the option that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word and mark your response accordingly.
He had the audacity to blame him.
Directions: Each item in this section consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four options, (a), (b), (c) and (d). Select the option that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word and mark your response accordingly.
There is exponential growth in the development of the scientific researches in the recent few decades.
Directions : Item in this section consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four words/group of words (a), (b), (c) and (d). Select the option that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word and mark your response in the Answer Sheet accordingly.
The itinerary of the group’s visit to the hills was given to everyone.
Directions : Item in this section consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four words/group of words (a), (b), (c) and (d). Select the option that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word and mark your response in the Answer Sheet accordingly.
All mortal elements are impermanent.
Directions : Item in this section consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four words (a), (b), (c) and (d). Select the option that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word and mark your response in the Answer Sheet accordingly.
The novel depicts the hapless status of certain sections of society.
