Which of the following pairs are antonyms:
egotistical : narcissistic
ardor : zeal
seditious : provocative
abhorrent: egregious
prodigious : diminutive
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct pair of antonyms is “prodigious : diminutive.”
Here’s why:
1. Egotistical : Narcissistic
- Egotistical and narcissistic are related terms, but they are not exact antonyms. Both describe an individual who has an inflated sense of self-importance or self-focus. While “egotistical” can refer to someone excessively self-centered, “narcissistic” refers specifically to someone with a clinical personality disorder characterized by a lack of empathy and an excessive preoccupation with themselves. Though they are similar, they are not opposites.
2. Ardor : Zeal
- Ardor and zeal are synonyms, not antonyms. Both words describe intense passion, enthusiasm, or fervor toward something. There is no opposite relationship here.
3. Seditious : Provocative
- Seditious and provocative are related, but they are not direct antonyms. Seditious refers to behavior or actions that aim to overthrow or undermine authority or government, often in an illegal or rebellious way. Provocative refers to something that is intended to provoke or stir strong reactions, which can be for a variety of reasons, not necessarily rebellion. While seditious actions can be provocative, the two words don’t represent opposites.
4. Abhorrent : Egregious
- Abhorrent and egregious are not antonyms. Abhorrent describes something that is repulsive or intensely disliked, while egregious refers to something that is outstandingly bad or offensive. Although both describe negative qualities, they do not represent opposites.
5. Prodigious : Diminutive
- Prodigious and diminutive are true antonyms. Prodigious means remarkably large, impressive, or extraordinary, while diminutive refers to something small or miniature. These two words are opposites in terms of size or extent, making them a correct pair of antonyms.
Conclusion:
The pair “prodigious : diminutive” is the correct answer, as these words represent opposites in terms of size and scale.