Choose the most appropriate antonym for the word: Belligerence.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → Pacifism
Belligerence means an aggressive, hostile attitude (eagerness to fight or argue). Its antonym is pacifism.
Example: The player's belligerence towards the referee earned him a red card.
| Word | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| (1) Argument | an angry disagreement between people (it goes with belligerence rather than against it) | The two brothers had an argument over the TV remote. |
| (2) Quarrel | an angry fight with words, which a belligerent person is likely to start (it is not an opposite) | A small quarrel between neighbours turned into a big fight. |
| (3) Pacifism (answer) | the belief that war and violence are wrong, and that disputes should be settled peacefully (eagerness to fight and a firm belief in peace are opposites) | Gandhiji's pacifism inspired many peaceful movements across the world. |
| (4) Contention | heated disagreement or dispute (again close to belligerence, not opposite) | The sharing of river water remains a matter of contention between the two states. |
| Synonyms of belligerence: aggression, hostility, combativeness, pugnacity Antonyms of belligerence: pacifism, peacefulness, friendliness, amiability Also asked in CUET (UG): belligerence – 23-05-2025 Slot 2 contention – 01-06-2023 Slot 3 |