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Question

In the following question, out of the four given alternatives, select the one which is opposite in meaning of the given word.

Duty

This question was previously asked in
SSC Stenographer 2017 Previous Year Paper (14-Sep-2017) (Shift 1)
The correct answer is

Irresponsibility

Understanding the Word Duty

The word 'Duty' refers to a moral or legal obligation, a responsibility, or something that a person is required to do. It implies a sense of commitment and accountability towards a task, person, or situation. Performing one's duty is often seen as a requirement or an expected action based on one's position, role, or principles.

Finding the Opposite Meaning of Duty

We are looking for a word that means the opposite of having a duty or responsibility. Let's examine the given options:

  • Commission: A commission can mean an instruction, command, or role given to a person or group. It can also refer to payment. This word is related to a task or role but does not represent the opposite of duty.
  • Obligation: An obligation is something that someone is required to do; a duty or commitment. This word is essentially a synonym for duty, not an opposite.
  • Irresponsibility: Irresponsibility is the state or quality of not having or showing a sense of responsibility. It means failing to fulfill one's duties or obligations. This directly contrasts with the concept of duty.
  • Role: A role is the function or part played by a person or thing in a particular situation. While a role often comes with duties, the word 'role' itself is not the opposite of duty; it describes a position or function.

Based on the meanings, 'Irresponsibility' is the term that signifies the lack of duty or the failure to perform one's duties, making it the direct opposite of 'Duty'.

Comparing Duty and Irresponsibility

Term Meaning Relationship to Duty
Duty A moral or legal obligation; a responsibility. The core concept.
Irresponsibility Lack of a sense of responsibility or accountability; failure to meet obligations. Opposite of Duty.
Commission An assigned task, role, or payment. Related to tasks that might be duties, but not an opposite.
Obligation A duty or commitment. A synonym for Duty.
Role A part or function played in a situation. A position that may involve duties, but not an opposite.

Therefore, the word that is opposite in meaning to Duty is Irresponsibility.

Revision Table: Key Vocabulary

Word Meaning Antonym/Opposite
Duty A moral or legal obligation; a responsibility. Irresponsibility
Irresponsibility Lack of responsibility. Responsibility, Duty (in context)

Additional Information on Duty and Related Concepts

Understanding words like 'duty' and 'irresponsibility' is crucial for building a strong vocabulary. Here are some related concepts:

  • Responsibility: The state or fact of having a duty to deal with something or of having control over someone. Often used interchangeably with duty in some contexts.
  • Accountability: The fact or condition of being accountable; responsibility. Being required or expected to justify actions or decisions.
  • Liability: The state of being responsible for something, especially by law.
  • Negligence: Failure to take proper care in doing something; resulting in damage or injury. This is a form of irresponsibility.

Recognizing synonyms and antonyms helps improve comprehension and expression. For example, synonyms for duty can include obligation, responsibility, and commitment, while antonyms include irresponsibility and negligence.

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