Question

Choose the word which is closest to the opposite in meaning to the italicized word.
The attack on the freedom of the press is a retrograde step.

• A. aggressive
• B. progressive
• C. punitive
• D. stubborn

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

progressive

Retrograde means reverting to an earlier and inferior condition. The opposite of progressive is progressive, or happening or developing gradually or in stages. Hence, Option B is correct. Among the rest of the options, aggressive means ready or likely to attack or confront; characterized by or resulting from aggression, punitive means inflicting or intended as punishment, stubborn means having or showing dogged determination not to change one's attitude or position on something, especially in spite of good arguments or reasons to do so. These do not express this antonym, hence incorrect.