Choose the word that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word in the given sentence:
Out of deference to their grandfather, the children waited for him to start eating before they touched their food.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → Disrespect
In the given sentence, deference means polite respect shown to someone, often by accepting their wishes. Its antonym is disrespect. Example: In deference to the elders, the young men stood up when the sarpanch walked in.
| Word | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| (1) Disrespect (answer) | lack of respect or politeness (opposite of deference) | Arguing with the umpire showed disrespect for the game. |
| (2) Reverence | deep respect, often mixed with love or wonder (a synonym of deference) | The pilgrims bowed with reverence at the temple door. |
| (3) Curiosity | a strong wish to know or learn something | Out of curiosity, Kabir opened the old radio to see how it worked. |
| (4) Patience | the ability to wait calmly without getting angry | Teaching Dada to use a smartphone needs a lot of patience. |
| Synonyms of deference: respect, reverence, regard, esteem Antonyms of deference: disrespect, contempt, insolence |