Select the word that is the exact opposite of the underlined word in meaning, from the given options.
The issue was raised inadvertently in the negotiations.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → deliberately
- Inadvertently means without intending to, by accident. The issue came up in the negotiations by mistake, not as part of a plan.
Example: She inadvertently deleted the important file. - Deliberately means on purpose, fully intending to do it. An accidental act and a planned act are opposites, so deliberately is the antonym.
Example: He deliberately ignored the warning signs.
Why the Other Options are Incorrect?
Option 1: partly — Incorrect. Partly means to some extent, not completely; it is about degree, not intention.
Example: The road was partly blocked by the fallen tree.
Option 3: candidly — Incorrect. Candidly means frankly and honestly; a matter can be raised by accident and still be discussed candidly, so it is not the opposite.
Example: She spoke candidly about her mistakes.
Option 4: fitfully — Incorrect. Fitfully means irregularly, in brief spells, stopping and starting; it is not about intention.
Example: The patient slept fitfully through the night.
The following words have also been asked in other CUET (UG) English papers:
| Word | 2026 | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| candid | 30-05 S2 | 19-05 S1 21-05 S1 26-05 S1 | – | 05-06 S3 | 17-08 S1 20-08 S1 |