Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word. SHALLOW
deep
Understanding the question is the first step. We are asked to find the most appropriate ANTONYM of the word SHALLOW.
Understanding the Word SHALLOW
The word SHALLOW has a few meanings. The most common ones relate to depth and substance.
- Meaning 1 (Physical Depth): Not deep; having a small distance from the top or surface down to the bottom. Example: a shallow pool, shallow water.
- Meaning 2 (Lack of Substance/Depth): Not showing serious or careful thought; not deep intellectually or emotionally. Example: a shallow conversation, a shallow person.
In both primary meanings, SHALLOW implies a lack of depth.
What is an Antonym?
An ANTONYM is a word that means the opposite of another word. For example, 'hot' is an antonym of 'cold', and 'happy' is an antonym of 'sad'. We are looking for the word that means the opposite of SHALLOW.
Analyzing the Options for SHALLOW
Let's look at the given options and determine their meanings:
- hollow
- superficial
- spiteful
- deep
Analyzing Option 1: hollow
The word 'hollow' usually means having a space inside; not solid. It can also mean without value or substance, like a hollow victory. While related to emptiness, it's not typically the opposite of SHALLOW, especially in terms of physical depth.
Analyzing Option 2: superficial
'Superficial' means existing or occurring on the surface; appearing to be true or real only until examined more closely. It can also mean not thorough, deep, or complete, or concerned only with the obvious or apparent. This word is actually a SYNONYM for the second meaning of SHALLOW (lack of substance). So, it is not an antonym.
Analyzing Option 3: spiteful
'Spiteful' means showing or caused by malice; wishing to annoy, hurt, or offend someone. This word relates to emotions and intentions towards others. It has no direct relationship in meaning to SHALLOW, whether in terms of depth or substance. Therefore, it is not an antonym.
Analyzing Option 4: deep
The word 'deep' means having a large distance from the top or surface down to the bottom. It is the direct opposite of the primary meaning of SHALLOW (not deep). In the context of meaning or thought, 'deep' can also mean profound or insightful, which is the opposite of the 'lack of substance' meaning of SHALLOW. Thus, 'deep' serves as a clear antonym for SHALLOW in its most common uses.
Why 'deep' is the Antonym of SHALLOW
Comparing the meanings of SHALLOW and 'deep', it is clear that they are direct opposites. If something is SHALLOW, it lacks depth. If something is 'deep', it has significant depth. This holds true for both physical depth and the depth of ideas or feelings.
Based on the analysis of all options, 'deep' is the only word that functions as an antonym for SHALLOW.
| Word | Meaning | Relationship to SHALLOW |
|---|---|---|
| SHALLOW | Not deep; lacking substance/depth. | - |
| hollow | Having space inside; without value. | Not a direct antonym. |
| superficial | On the surface; not deep/thorough. | Synonym. |
| spiteful | Malicious; wishing to hurt. | Unrelated. |
| deep | Having significant distance from top to bottom; profound. | Antonym. |
Revision Table: Key Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning | Example Usage |
|---|---|---|
| SHALLOW | Not deep; lacking depth or substance. | The water is very shallow here. Their conversation felt quite shallow. |
| ANTONYM | A word opposite in meaning to another. | 'Hot' is an antonym of 'cold'. |
| SYNONYM | A word having the same or nearly the same meaning as another. | 'Happy' is a synonym of 'joyful'. |
| deep | Having great depth; profound. | The ocean is very deep. She gave a deep analysis of the problem. |
| superficial | On the surface; not thorough or deep. | He has only a superficial understanding of the subject. |
Additional Information: Expanding Vocabulary
Learning antonyms and synonyms is a great way to expand your vocabulary and improve your understanding of words. When you learn a new word, try to find its antonyms and synonyms. This helps you see how words relate to each other and how to use them effectively in different contexts.
For example, other words related to 'deep' could include profound, extensive, intense. Words related to 'shallow' could include superficial, flimsy, trivial.
Always consider the context when choosing antonyms or synonyms, as many words have multiple meanings.
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.
