The following question consists of a sentence with an underlined word/words followed by four words. Select the option that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word/words and mark your response accordingly. Terrorists profess fanatical ideology.
Moderate
Finding the Opposite Meaning of 'Fanatical'
The question asks us to identify the word that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word 'fanatical' in the sentence: "Terrorists profess fanatical ideology." To answer this, we need to understand the meaning of 'fanatical' and then examine the given options to find its antonym.
Understanding 'Fanatical'
'Fanatical' describes someone or something characterized by excessive enthusiasm, zeal, or obsession, often to an unreasonable degree, especially in religious or political beliefs. A fanatical ideology is one held with extreme, uncritical, and often aggressive fervor.
Analyzing the Options
Let's look at the meanings of the given options:
- Bigoted: Having or revealing an obstinate belief in the superiority of one's own opinions and a prejudiced intolerance of the opinions of others. This word is similar in nature to 'fanatical' as it implies intolerance and strong, unyielding beliefs. It is not an opposite.
- Militant: Aggressive or actively supportive of a political or social cause, often involving the use of extreme or violent measures. While often associated with fanatical groups, 'militant' describes a type of action or attitude rather than the intensity of belief itself. It is not the opposite of 'fanatical'.
- Moderate: Not extreme, excessive, or intense; within reasonable limits. A moderate ideology or person holds beliefs that are not extreme or radical. This word directly contrasts with the intensity and extremity implied by 'fanatical'.
- Fervid: Intensely enthusiastic or passionate, especially to an excessive degree. 'Fervid' is very close in meaning to 'fanatical', describing intense passion or enthusiasm. It is a synonym, not an opposite.
Determining the Opposite
Comparing the meanings, we see that 'moderate' is the only word that presents a meaning contrary to 'fanatical'. While 'fanatical' implies extremity and excessive zeal, 'moderate' suggests balance, reasonableness, and a lack of extremism.
Conclusion
Based on the analysis of the meanings of the words, the word opposite in meaning to 'fanatical' is 'moderate'.
| Word | Meaning | Relationship to 'Fanatical' |
|---|---|---|
| Fanatical | Excessively zealous, obsessive, extreme in belief | The word to find the opposite for |
| Bigoted | Intolerant of different opinions | Similar (implies rigidity) |
| Militant | Aggressive/active for a cause | Related (often linked to fanaticism) |
| Moderate | Not extreme, within limits | Opposite |
| Fervid | Intensely passionate/enthusiastic | Similar (synonym) |
Revision Table: Vocabulary Antonyms
| Word | Antonym (Opposite) |
|---|---|
| Fanatical | Moderate |
| Extreme | Moderate |
| Radical | Moderate |
| Intense | Mild, Calm |
| Zealous | Apathetic, Indifferent |
Additional Information on Antonyms
Antonyms are words that have opposite meanings. Understanding antonyms is a key part of building vocabulary and improving comprehension. Words can have multiple antonyms depending on the specific context in which they are used. For example, the opposite of 'hot' can be 'cold', 'cool', or 'mild'. In the context of beliefs or ideologies, 'moderate' serves as a clear opposite to 'fanatical', representing a position free from extremism or excessive zeal.
When identifying antonyms, it's helpful to consider the nuance of the word's meaning in the given sentence. In this case, 'fanatical' refers to the intensity and extremity of the ideology, making 'moderate' the most appropriate opposite.
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.
