Question

Choose the word opposite in meaning to the italicized word:
The Minister is optimistic about the new project just launched.

• A. stoical
• B. dubious
• C. pessimistic
• D. cynical

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

pessimistic

Option C: 'Optimistic' means 'hopeful and confident that good things will happen in the future'.

'Pessimistic' means 'believing that the worst will happen'.

As you can see, 'pessimistic' means the opposite of 'optimistic'. Hence option C is correct.

Option A: 'Stoical' means 'enduring pain without expressing it or complaining'.

Option B: 'Dubious' means 'hesitating or doubting'.

Option D: 'Cynical' means 'believing that people are selfish and are only think about their self-interests'.

These words do not mean the opposite of the italicized word 'optimistic'.

Hence options A, B and D are wrong.