Understanding the Word Derisive

The question asks us to find the word that is opposite in meaning to the word DERISIVE.

First, let's understand the meaning of DERISIVE.

DERISIVE means expressing contempt or ridicule. It describes something that shows someone or something is considered to be worthless or laughable.

For example, a derisive laugh or a derisive comment shows that someone is being mocked or scorned.

Analyzing the Given Options

Now let's look at the options provided and understand their meanings:

• lenient: This word means permissive or not strict. It is often used to describe a punishment or rule that is less severe than expected.
• respectful: This word means feeling or showing deference and respect. It describes an attitude or behaviour that shows honour and consideration for someone or something.
• extravagant: This word means lacking restraint in spending money or using resources. It can also mean excessively elaborate or luxurious.
• hostile: This word means showing unfriendliness or opposition. It describes a person or attitude that is aggressive and antagonistic.

Finding the Opposite Meaning

We are looking for the word that is the opposite of expressing contempt or ridicule (DERISIVE).

Let's compare the options to the meaning of DERISIVE:

• lenient: Being lenient is not directly opposite to being derisive. Lenience relates to strictness or severity, while derisive relates to respect or contempt.
• respectful: Being respectful means showing honour and consideration. This is the direct opposite of showing contempt or ridicule, which is what derisive means.
• extravagant: Being extravagant relates to spending or luxury, which has no direct opposite relationship with being derisive.
• hostile: Being hostile means being unfriendly or opposed. While hostility can sometimes involve derision, it is not the core opposite. The opposite of hostility might be friendly or welcoming, while the opposite of derisive (scornful) is respectful (honouring).

Based on the analysis, the word that is opposite in meaning to DERISIVE is respectful.

Conclusion

The word DERISIVE implies scorn, mockery, and a lack of respect. The opposite of this is showing respect, honour, and consideration.

Therefore, the antonym of DERISIVE is respectful.

Revision Table: Derisive and Antonyms

Additional Information: Understanding Antonyms

Antonyms are words that have opposite meanings. Learning antonyms is a great way to expand your vocabulary and improve your understanding of word relationships.

Examples of other antonym pairs include:

• Hot <> Cold
• Happy <> Sad
• Big <> Small
• Quick <> Slow

Identifying antonyms helps in understanding the nuances of word meanings in different contexts.