Choose the correct antonym of the following word from the given options:
RANCOUR
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → Civility
- Rancour means deep, long-lasting bitterness or ill will towards someone, usually because of a past wrong. It comes from the Latin rancor (rankness, bitterness).
Example: Even years after the quarrel, he felt no rancour towards his brother. - Civility means polite and courteous behaviour towards others. Rancour is a hostile feeling; civility is courteous, respectful conduct, so civility is the antonym among the options.
Example: Even in disagreement, the two leaders treated each other with civility.
Why the Other Options are Incorrect?
Option 2: Malice — Incorrect. Malice means the wish to harm someone; it is close to rancour in meaning, a synonym, not an antonym.
Example: She spoke without malice, only out of concern.
Option 3: Aromatic — Incorrect. Aromatic means having a pleasant, strong smell; it has nothing to do with feelings.
Example: The kitchen was filled with aromatic spices.
Option 4: Bitterness — Incorrect. Bitterness means anger and hurt over unfair treatment; it is a synonym of rancour.
Example: There was no bitterness in his voice when he spoke of the past.
| Synonyms (Rancour) | Antonyms (Rancour) |
|---|---|
| malice | civility |
| bitterness | goodwill |
| resentment | friendliness |
| spite | amity |
The following words have also been asked in other CUET (UG) English papers:
| Word | 2026 | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| civility | – | – | 29-05 S1 | – | – |
| malice | 26-05 S1 | – | – | – | – |