Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Antonym questions require tracking down a word that carries the inverse semantic value of the prompt.
To find an antonym, one must first identify the core definition and the ``connotation'' (positive, negative, or neutral) of the word.
The word ``disdain'' operates as both a noun and a verb, representing a specific type of interpersonal judgment.
It is a formal word often used in literature and high-level discourse to describe an attitude of superiority.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let’s look at the definitions to contrast the target word with the multiple-choice options:
DISDAIN: The feeling that someone or something is unworthy of one’s consideration, respect, or honor.
It involves contempt, scorn, or the act of looking down on someone as if they are inferior or worthless.
If you disdain someone, you treat them with zero value.
Now let's analyze the options:
1. Respect (Antonym): A feeling of deep admiration for someone or something elicited by their abilities, qualities, or achievements.
Respect involves looking ``up'' at someone or viewing them as having significant value.
Because this is the direct opposite of viewing someone with worthless contempt, it is the perfect antonym.
2. Anger: A strong feeling of annoyance, displeasure, or hostility.
While you might be angry at someone you disdain, anger is an active, hot emotion, whereas disdain is often a cold, detached judgment of worth.
3. Pride: A feeling of deep pleasure or satisfaction derived from one’s own achievements or possessions.
Pride is a self-oriented emotion. While excessive pride (hubris) can lead to disdain for others, the words themselves are not opposites.
4. Doubt: A feeling of uncertainty or lack of conviction.
Doubt relates to belief and truth, whereas disdain relates to value and status.
Thus, ``Respect'' is the only word that successfully reverses the meaning of treating someone as worthless.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Since disdain is a negative evaluation of someone's worth, the opposite must be a positive evaluation.
The word opposite in meaning to disdain is Respect (Option a).