Choose the most appropriate opposite of the underlined word from the options given below:
Being contrite is not enough to spare you from detention if you are caught skipping class.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → unapologetic
- Contrite means feeling very sorry and guilty for having done something wrong (from the Latin contritus, crushed: crushed by guilt). The sentence says that being sorry is not enough to escape detention.
Example: The contrite boy apologised to his teacher. - Unapologetic means not sorry at all; refusing to apologise. It names the opposite feeling, so it is the antonym.
Example: He remained unapologetic about his rude remarks.
Why the Other Options are Incorrect?
Option 1: appealing — Incorrect. Appealing means attractive or interesting; it has nothing to do with feeling sorry.
Example: The idea of a holiday by the sea is very appealing.
Option 3: concise — Incorrect. Concise means short and clear, using few words; it describes speech or writing.
Example: Keep your answers concise.
Option 4: lugubrious — Incorrect. Lugubrious means looking or sounding sad and gloomy; it is close to a sorrowful mood, not opposite to it.
Example: He spoke in a slow, lugubrious voice.
| Synonyms (Contrite) | Antonyms (Contrite) |
|---|---|
| remorseful | unapologetic |
| penitent | unrepentant |
| repentant | impenitent |
| apologetic | remorseless |
The following words have also been asked in other CUET (UG) English papers:
| Word | 2026 | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| lugubrious | – | 22-05 S2 31-05 S1 | 19-07 S1 | – | – |