Select the word that is the opposite in meaning to the underlined word in the following sentence:
Whether the rewards commensurate with the efforts or not, a society will always have workaholics and shirk work groups.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → disproportionate
Commensurate means in proper proportion to, matching in size or degree. The sentence asks whether rewards match the efforts. Its antonym is disproportionate.
Example: Her salary is commensurate with her experience.
| Word | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| (1) disproportionate (answer) | too large or too small in comparison with something (matching in proportion against out of proportion) | The punishment was disproportionate to the offence. |
| (2) equal to | the same in amount or value (it is close in meaning to commensurate, not opposite) | His pay is equal to mine. |
| (3) commence | to begin (it only looks like "commensurate" and has nothing to do with proportion) | Classes commence on Monday. |
| (4) compatible | able to exist or work together without conflict (it is nearer to a match than to the opposite) | The new software is compatible with older computers. |