Choose the most appropriate antonym of the underlined word.
Our new principal is far more lenient than the old one about late homework.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → Strict
In the given sentence, lenient means not strict, ready to forgive mistakes or let rules go. Its antonym is strict. Example: The lenient guard let the late students in without a note.
| Word | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| (1) Tolerant | willing to accept what one does not like (a synonym of lenient) | Dadi is tolerant of the noise the children make. |
| (2) Careless | not paying enough attention to one’s work | The careless clerk wrote the wrong date on the form. |
| (3) Strict (answer) | making people follow rules and not allowing them to break them (opposite of lenient) | Our coach is strict about reaching the ground by six. |
| (4) Generous | happy to give money, time or help | The generous shopkeeper gave the children free sweets on Diwali. |
| Synonyms of lenient: tolerant, easy-going, soft, permissive Antonyms of lenient: strict, harsh, severe, stern |