Each item in this section consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four words. Select the option that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word. According to G B shaw, men have becomeinert. Therefore, the life force has chosen women to perform its functions.
lively
Understanding the Question: Finding the Opposite Meaning
The question asks us to find the word that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word "inert" in the given sentence. This is a vocabulary question testing our knowledge of antonyms.
The sentence is: "According to G B shaw, men have become inert. Therefore, the life force has chosen women to perform its functions."
We need to understand the meaning of "inert" in this context.
Meaning of 'Inert'
The word "inert" generally means:
- Lacking the ability or strength to move.
- Lacking vigor; sluggish.
- Chemically inactive (though this meaning is not relevant here).
In the sentence, "men have become inert" suggests that men have become inactive, lacking energy, vitality, or the will to act or change. This is why, according to the statement, the "life force" has turned to women.
Analyzing the Options
Let's examine each option provided:
- lively: This means full of life and energy; active and outgoing.
- quiescent: This means in a state or period of inactivity or dormancy.
- dormant: This means temporarily inactive or inoperative.
- apathetic: This means showing or feeling no interest, enthusiasm, or concern.
Finding the Antonym
We are looking for the word most opposite to "inert" (inactive, sluggish, lacking energy/vitality).
- 'Quiescent' and 'dormant' are synonyms or near-synonyms of 'inert', meaning inactive or in a state of rest. These are not opposites.
- 'Apathetic' means lacking interest or enthusiasm. While someone inert might also be apathetic, the primary meaning of 'inert' here relates more directly to a lack of activity and energy rather than just a lack of interest.
- 'Lively' means full of life, energy, and activity. This is a direct contrast to being inactive, sluggish, or lacking energy, which are key aspects of 'inert'.
Therefore, "lively" is the most suitable antonym for "inert" in this context.
Conclusion
Based on the analysis of the meanings, the word that is opposite in meaning to "inert" is "lively".
Revision Table: Antonyms and Synonyms
| Word | Meaning (Contextual) | Antonym | Synonyms |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inert | Inactive, sluggish, lacking energy/vitality | Lively | Inactive, sluggish, passive, listless, motionless, quiescent, dormant |
| Lively | Full of life and energy; active | Inert, inactive, sluggish | Energetic, active, spirited, animated, vigorous |
| Quiescent | Inactive; at rest | Active, lively | Dormant, inactive, still, passive |
| Dormant | Temporarily inactive | Active, operative, lively | Quiescent, inactive, sleeping, latent |
| Apathetic | Lacking interest or enthusiasm | Enthusiastic, keen, interested, lively | Uninterested, indifferent, listless, lethargic |
Additional Information: Understanding Vocabulary
Improving vocabulary is crucial for language proficiency and excelling in exams that test verbal ability. Questions asking for antonyms and synonyms help assess your word knowledge.
- Antonyms: Words that have opposite meanings (e.g., hot vs. cold, up vs. down, inert vs. lively).
- Synonyms: Words that have similar meanings (e.g., happy vs. joyful, big vs. large, inert vs. inactive).
When finding antonyms or synonyms, always consider the context in which the word is used, as words can have multiple meanings. In this case, understanding that "inert" describes a state of being inactive or lacking vitality in humans is key to selecting the correct opposite.
The sentence also references G.B. Shaw and the "life force". This alludes to Shaw's philosophical concept (specifically in works like *Man and Superman*) where the "life force" is a driving evolutionary impulse, and he explored gender roles and societal contributions in relation to this force. Understanding this context reinforces that "inert" here means lacking the drive or energy associated with this life force.
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.
