Classification (antonyms): Three pairs are true opposites; one pair is actually a synonym pair. Identify the non-antonym pair among the following.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Genuine : Real

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Antonym classification questions require you to separate true opposites from words that are similar or only loosely related. In the given set, three pairs express direct oppositions along a single semantic axis, while one pair expresses near synonymy rather than opposition. The task is to find the exception that does not provide an opposite meaning relationship.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Pairs to examine: Dim : Bright, Wrong : Right, Shallow : Deep, Genuine : Real.
  • We define antonyms as words that stand at opposite ends of the same scale or concept (for example, light vs dark, correct vs incorrect).
  • We define synonyms as words that share similar meanings (for example, authentic and real).


Concept / Approach:
The approach is to test each pair for a strict binary contrast along one dimension. If both words are commonly used as mutually exclusive alternatives in ordinary usage, the pair is a true antonym pair. If they can substitute for each other in typical contexts without flipping meaning, they are synonyms and therefore the odd pair in an antonym set.



Step-by-Step Solution:

Dim vs Bright: These are opposites regarding intensity of light or brilliance. When brightness increases, dimness decreases. This is a clear antonym pair.Wrong vs Right: These are canonical opposites in correctness or morality. This is an archetypal antonym pair used in logic and everyday judgment.Shallow vs Deep: These are opposites measuring vertical extent or figurative profundity. Depth and shallowness operate on the same axis, so this is an antonym pair.Genuine vs Real: These are near synonyms meaning authentic, not fake, not counterfeit. They do not form a binary opposition; rather, they reinforce similar meaning.


Verification / Alternative check:
Attempt substitution in sentences. Replace genuine with real in “This is a genuine diamond.” The sentence “This is a real diamond” preserves the intended meaning, which confirms similarity, not opposition.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Dim : Bright are opposites in luminance.Wrong : Right are opposites in correctness.Shallow : Deep are opposites in depth.


Common Pitfalls:
A frequent mistake is to assume that two words with overlapping connotations are antonyms. Synonyms like genuine and real cannot be opposites because they do not define a two sided scale. Another pitfall is to judge based on tone rather than meaning. Always check whether replacing one with the other reverses meaning or preserves it.



Final Answer:
Genuine : Real

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