Question

Which one of the following is nearest to the opposite in meaning to the word given in capitals? STARK

• A. bleak
• B. hostile
• C. austere
• D. subtle

Hint:

Think of ``stark'' in the context of ``stark contrast'' (very sharp and obvious).
The opposite of an obvious, sharp difference is a ``subtle'' difference, which is delicate and hard to see.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understand the given word.
STARK means severe, harsh, bleak, or glaringly obvious; it conveys intensity and an absence of any softening quality.
Step 2: Eliminate synonyms.
"Bleak", "hostile", and "austere" all share the harsh, bare, or severe quality of stark, making them synonyms rather than antonyms.
Step 3: Select the antonym.
"Subtle" means delicate, understated, and not immediately obvious, which is the opposite of stark's glaring and intense harshness.
\[ \boxed{\text{subtle}} \]