In the following question, out of the four alternatives, choose the word which is opposite in meaning to the given word CAPTIVITY, as used in the context of being kept imprisoned or confined.

Introduction / Context:
This question tests knowledge of antonyms, specifically the opposite of the word "captivity." Captivity usually refers to a state of being imprisoned, confined, or kept under control, whether of people, animals, or even ideas. Knowing its opposite helps in comprehension of passages about war, wildlife, and human rights.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Target word: CAPTIVITY.
• Options: SLAVERY, PERMISSION, FREEDOM, LIMITATION.
• The sense is that of physical or metaphorical confinement.

Concept / Approach:
"Captivity" denotes a lack of freedom, a state in which movement or choice is restricted, often by force. Therefore, its direct opposite is "freedom," which means the condition of being free to act, move, and live without unjust restraints. The other options do not provide a clean and direct opposition to this idea. "Slavery" is actually another form of captivity, and "limitation" also suggests restriction.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall the meaning of "captivity": being held prisoner or in confinement. Step 2: Identify a word that represents the opposite state, where there is no such confinement. Step 3: Recognise that "freedom" means the power to act and move without external restraint. Step 4: Compare against other options and see that only "FREEDOM" directly contrasts with "CAPTIVITY." Step 5: Select "FREEDOM" as the correct antonym.

Verification / Alternative check:
Consider example sentences: "The bird was finally released from captivity and enjoyed freedom," clearly showing the opposition. Similarly, we can say "After years of captivity, the prisoner longed for freedom." None of the other options would fit naturally in these sentences as opposites.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• SLAVERY: Indicates a condition where a person is owned and controlled by another, which is a form of captivity rather than its opposite.
• PERMISSION: Means approval to do something, not a general state of being free or imprisoned. A person can have permission but still be in a restricted environment.
• LIMITATION: Suggests restriction or a bound, which is similar in spirit to captivity, not opposite.

Common Pitfalls:
Sometimes test takers pick a word that simply sounds positive compared to a negative word, rather than checking the exact relationship. Here, "permission" seems positive, but it does not express the opposite of imprisonment. Always examine whether the choice truly reverses the core meaning of the original word.

Final Answer:
The word that is opposite in meaning to CAPTIVITY is FREEDOM.