Finding the Opposite Meaning of Preposterous

The question asks us to find the word that is opposite in meaning to "Preposterous" from the given options. To do this, we first need to understand what "Preposterous" means.

Understanding the word 'Preposterous'

The word 'Preposterous' is an adjective used to describe something that is utterly absurd or ridiculous. It suggests something that is contrary to reason or common sense, often in a shocking or laughable way. Think of something completely illogical or unreasonable.

• Example: "The idea of building a house on the moon seemed preposterous to everyone."

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

• Ridiculous: This word means deserving or inviting ridicule or derision; absurd. This is very similar in meaning to preposterous, not opposite.
• Excessive: This means more than is necessary, normal, or desirable; immoderate. This relates to quantity or degree, not typically reason or logic. It is not the opposite of preposterous.
• Incredible: This means impossible to believe, or sometimes, extremely impressive or extraordinary. While something preposterous might be hard to believe, incredible doesn't directly capture the sense of being illogical or unreasonable as its primary meaning. It's not a direct opposite.
• Reasonable: This word means based on good sense; logical and fair. It describes something that is sensible and rational. This is the complete opposite of being absurd, illogical, or contrary to reason, which is the meaning of preposterous.

Based on the meanings, the word that is opposite in meaning to preposterous is Reasonable.

Analysis of Options for Opposite Meaning

Let's compare 'Preposterous' and 'Reasonable' directly:

• Preposterous: Absurd, illogical, ridiculous, contrary to reason.
• Reasonable: Logical, sensible, based on good sense, fair, rational.

Clearly, 'Reasonable' represents the state of being logical and sensible, which is the antithesis of being illogical and absurd ('Preposterous').

Therefore, the correct opposite of Preposterous is Reasonable.

Revision Table: Preposterous Opposite Meaning

Additional Information on Vocabulary: Synonyms and Antonyms

Understanding synonyms and antonyms is crucial for improving vocabulary. Synonyms are words that have similar meanings, while antonyms are words that have opposite meanings.

• Synonyms for Preposterous: absurd, ridiculous, foolish, silly, illogical, irrational, nonsensical, crazy.
• Antonyms for Preposterous: reasonable, sensible, logical, rational, sound, plausible, credible.

Learning synonyms helps you express the same idea in different ways, while learning antonyms helps you understand the nuances of word meanings and express contrasts effectively. For the word 'Preposterous', its core meaning is about a lack of reason or logic, making 'Reasonable' the most fitting opposite.