Choose the word that is most nearly OPPOSITE in meaning to the underlined word:
The office’s dilatory handling of the scholarship forms meant that many students got their money only after the term had ended.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → Prompt
In the given sentence, dilatory means slow to act, so that things get delayed. Its antonym is prompt. Example: The dilatory contractor took two years to repair a small bridge.
| Word | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| (1) Sluggish | slow and lacking energy (a synonym of dilatory) | The ceiling fan was sluggish because the voltage was low. |
| (2) Careless | not paying enough attention, so that mistakes happen | A careless spelling mistake cost Riya half a mark. |
| (3) Lenient | not strict in judging or punishing | The lenient invigilator gave us five extra minutes. |
| (4) Prompt (answer) | done or acting quickly, without delay (opposite of dilatory) | Thanks to the prompt help of the neighbours, the fire was put out in minutes. |
| Synonyms of dilatory: sluggish, slow, tardy, slack Antonyms of dilatory: prompt, quick, swift, speedy |