Select the words that are opposite in meaning to the word GENTLE.
(A) Harsh
(B) Mild
(C) Curious
(D) Rough
(E) Tender
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → (A) and (D) only
Gentle means kind, calm and soft in manner, not rough or violent. Example: Our vet has a gentle way with frightened puppies.
(A) Harsh — Correct. Harsh means unkind, cruel or too strict. It is an antonym of gentle. Example: The coach’s harsh words made the young players cry.
(B) Mild — Incorrect. Mild means soft and gentle, not strong or severe. It is a synonym of gentle. Example: Dadi is a mild woman who never raises her voice.
(C) Curious — Incorrect. Curious means eager to know or learn about something. Example: The curious children asked the potter how he shaped the pots.
(D) Rough — Correct. Rough means not gentle, using force or being careless. It is an antonym of gentle. Example: The porter was rough with our suitcase and broke the handle.
(E) Tender — Incorrect. Tender means kind, loving and gentle. It is a synonym of gentle. Example: Maa gave the sick calf a tender pat on the head.