Question

Choose the word which is opposite in meaning to the underlined word in the sentence.

The Gupta rulers patronised all cultural activities and thus Gupta period was called the golden era in Indian History.

• A. criticised
• B. rejected
• C. opposed
• D. spurned

Answer 1

The correct option is C opposed

The underlined word 'patronised' means 'to give financial or other support'.
The Gupta rulers supported cultural activities financially and in other ways. So that's why the period was called the golden era, due to its rich culture that was encouraged.
Option C: The word 'opposed' means 'to actively resist' or be against something. It means the direct opposite of 'patronised'. The former 'prevents giving support' and the latter means 'give support'. Hence this word is opposite to the underlined word, and option C is correct.
Option A: 'Criticised' means 'to find faults in someone'. It is not opposite in meaning to the underlined word. It does not mean the opposite of support. Hence A is incorrect.
Options B and D: 'Rejected' and 'spurned' have similar meanings. 'Rejected' means 'to refuse to agree to' and 'spurned' means 'to reject with disdain'.
Both words mean 'to decline something'. But they aren't opposite to the underlined word. They do not have the specific opposite meaning, that is: decline support. Hence B and D are incorrect.