Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the underlined word. The patient found the doctor to be obtuse and distracted by constant calls on his phone.
astute
Understanding the Antonym of Obtuse
The question asks us to find the most appropriate antonym for the underlined word 'obtuse' in the sentence: "The patient found the doctor to be obtuse and distracted by constant calls on his phone."
First, let's understand the meaning of 'obtuse' in this context. When describing a person, 'obtuse' means being slow to understand, dull-witted, insensitive, or lacking sharpness of intellect. The sentence suggests the doctor was perceived as not quick to grasp things or perhaps not sensitive to the patient's needs, alongside being distracted.
Analyzing the Options for Antonym
Let's look at the meaning of each option provided:
- astute: This word describes someone who has or shows an ability to accurately assess situations or people and turn this to their advantage. An astute person is sharp, intelligent, perceptive, and quick-witted.
- obese: This word means grossly fat or overweight. It relates to physical body weight and has no connection to intellect or understanding.
- banal: This word describes something so lacking in originality as to be obvious and boring. It means commonplace or uninspired. It relates to creativity and interest, not directly to intelligence or sensitivity.
- obsolete: This word means no longer produced or used; out of date. It typically refers to technology, equipment, or ideas, not people's mental capabilities.
Identifying the Most Appropriate Antonym
We are looking for the opposite of 'obtuse', which means slow to understand or dull. Comparing the options, 'astute' means sharp, intelligent, and quick-witted, which is the direct opposite of being slow or dull ('obtuse').
The other options are clearly not antonyms of 'obtuse': 'obese' relates to weight, 'banal' relates to lack of originality, and 'obsolete' relates to being out of date.
Therefore, 'astute' is the most appropriate antonym for 'obtuse'.
Conclusion: Finding the Antonym of Obtuse
Based on the analysis of the meanings of 'obtuse' and the given options, 'astute' stands out as the clear antonym. An obtuse person is slow or dull, while an astute person is sharp and intelligent.
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Obtuse | Slow to understand; dull-witted; insensitive |
| Astute | Sharp; intelligent; perceptive; quick to understand |
| Obese | Grossly fat |
| Banal | Commonplace; boring; unoriginal |
| Obsolete | Out of date; no longer in use |
Revision Table: Vocabulary and Antonyms
| Word | Meaning (Contextual) | Antonym |
|---|---|---|
| Obtuse | Slow to understand, dull, insensitive | Astute, Sharp, Perceptive, Quick-witted |
| Astute | Sharp, intelligent, perceptive | Obtuse, Dull, Slow, Ignorant |
Additional Information on Word Relationships
Understanding synonyms and antonyms is crucial for building vocabulary and improving comprehension. Antonyms are words that have opposite meanings, while synonyms have similar meanings.
- Antonym Pairs: Examples include hot/cold, up/down, fast/slow, light/dark, and in this case, obtuse/astute.
- Context Matters: The meaning of a word can sometimes change depending on the context. For instance, 'sharp' can mean intelligent (synonym for astute) or physically pointed. Always consider the sentence structure and surrounding words.
- Vocabulary Building: Learning words in pairs (like antonyms) or groups (like synonyms) can make memorization easier and help you see the nuances in language.
By carefully analyzing the meaning of the core word and each option, we can accurately identify the most appropriate antonym, ensuring a better understanding of word relationships and their usage in sentences.
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.
