All Exams Test series for 1 year @ ₹349 only
Question

Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.

Compulsory

The correct answer is

Voluntary

Understanding Compulsory: Finding the Antonym

The question asks us to find the most appropriate antonym of the word "Compulsory". An antonym is a word that has the opposite meaning of another word.

Meaning of Compulsory

The word Compulsory means required by law or a rule; obligatory.

For example, in many countries, primary education is compulsory, meaning children are required by law to attend school.

Analyzing the Options

Let's look at the given options and determine their meanings and relationship to the word Compulsory:

  • Obligatory: This word means required by a legal, moral, or other rule; compulsory. It is a synonym of Compulsory.
  • Mandatory: This word also means required by law or rules; compulsory. It is another synonym of Compulsory.
  • Voluntary: This word means done, given, or acting of one's own free will. It is the opposite of something that is required or compulsory.
  • Subsidiary: This word means relating to or constituting a subsidiary company, or of secondary importance. It is not related in meaning to Compulsory.

Identifying the Antonym

Based on the meanings, "Voluntary" is the word that means acting or done by choice, not because it is required. This is the direct opposite of something that is Compulsory (required).

Conclusion

The most appropriate antonym for Compulsory is Voluntary.

Word Meaning Relationship to Compulsory
Compulsory Required by law or rule (Base word)
Obligatory Required by rule Synonym
Mandatory Required by law or rules Synonym
Voluntary Done by free will; not required Antonym
Subsidiary Of secondary importance Unrelated

Revision Table: Compulsory Antonyms and Synonyms

Understanding synonyms and antonyms helps build vocabulary. Here's a quick look at words related to Compulsory.

Word Type Examples
Synonyms of Compulsory Obligatory, Mandatory, Required, Necessary
Antonyms of Compulsory Voluntary, Optional, Discretionary, Elective

Additional Information: Word Roots

The word "Compulsory" comes from the Latin word "compellere," meaning "to drive together" or "to compel." This root highlights the idea of being forced or required to do something.

The word "Voluntary" comes from the Latin word "voluntas," meaning "will, desire." This root highlights the idea of doing something by choice or free will.

Understanding the roots of words can often help in understanding their meanings and relationships.

Was this answer helpful?

Important Questions from Synonyms or Antonyms

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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. 

  4. 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.

  5. 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.  

Need Expert Advice?

Start Your Preparation with Prepp Mobile App

Download the app from Google Play & App Store
Download the app from Google Play & App Store
Prepp Mobile App