Select the word that is the exact opposite of the underlined word given below :-
BENEVOLENCE
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → Unkindness
- Benevolence means kindness and goodwill; the wish to do good to others. It comes from the Latin bene (well) + volens (wishing).
Example: The old king was known for his benevolence towards the poor. - Unkindness means a lack of kindness; harsh or uncaring behaviour. It is the direct negative of the goodwill that benevolence stands for, so unkindness is the antonym among the options.
Example: She never forgot the unkindness of her classmates.
Why the Other Options are Incorrect?
Option 1: Generosity — Incorrect. Generosity is readiness to give freely; it is close to benevolence in meaning, a synonym rather than an antonym.
Example: Thanks to his generosity, the school got a new library.
Option 2: Politeness — Incorrect. Politeness is good manners, courteous behaviour; it is about manners, not about wishing others well, and it is not opposite to benevolence.
Example: The guests were impressed by the child's politeness.
Option 3: Rudeness — Incorrect. Rudeness is bad manners, impolite behaviour. It is the opposite of politeness; a person can be rude in manner and still wish others well.
Example: His rudeness to the waiter upset everyone at the table.
| Synonyms (Benevolence) | Antonyms (Benevolence) |
|---|---|
| generosity | malevolence |
| kindness | unkindness |
| goodwill | ill will |
| charity | cruelty |
The following words have also been asked in other CUET (UG) English papers:
| Word | 2026 | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| benevolence | 21-05 S1 | – | – | 02-06 S1 06-06 S1 08-06 S1 | – |