In the following question, out of the given four alternatives, select the one which is opposite in meaning to the given word. Mould.

Introduction / Context:
This question focuses on an antonym of the word mould. In exam English, mould is often used as a noun meaning a pattern or style into which people or things are shaped, or as a verb meaning to shape or form something. In many contexts, especially when speaking about character or personality, mould suggests something formed according to a standard pattern rather than truly original. The opposite idea is that of being genuine or not artificially shaped.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Target word: Mould.
• Options: Genuine, Shape, Slice, Sculpt.
• We are asked for the opposite in meaning, not the same meaning.
• Shape and sculpt are clearly related to forming something.

Concept / Approach:
As a verb, to mould means to shape or form something, often according to a pattern. As a noun, mould can also refer to the pattern itself. In many figurative uses, being in a mould means being shaped by external influences rather than being unique. Therefore, a natural opposite idea is genuine or original, that is, not formed by a standard pattern. Among the options, genuine is the only word that carries this sense of being real, true or authentic. Shape and sculpt are synonyms of mould in its verb sense, while slice is unrelated to this conceptual pair.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that mould can mean to shape or form, especially by using a pattern.Step 2: Notice that shape and sculpt also mean to form or model something, often physically.Step 3: Recognise that slice is a cutting action and does not express the opposite of forming according to a pattern.Step 4: Consider genuine, which means real, authentic, not artificial or imitated.Step 5: In figurative expressions, a person not pressed into a mould is someone who remains genuine and original, so genuine functions as an opposite in spirit.Step 6: Conclude that genuine is the correct antonym among the options provided.

Verification / Alternative check:
Imagine two descriptions: He was moulded by strict traditions and He was a genuine free spirit. The first suggests someone shaped and restricted by a pattern, while the second suggests someone who is original and not shaped by those patterns. This shows how mould and genuine can represent opposing ideas in many character and personality contexts. If we attempted to use shape or sculpt as antonyms, we would instead be picking synonyms of mould, which would be incorrect in an antonym question.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Shape: This is very close in meaning to mould, as it also means to give form or outline to something. Therefore, it cannot be an antonym. Slice: Slice means to cut into pieces or thin parts and is not conceptually opposite to forming or patterning; it simply describes a different action. Sculpt: Sculpt is also similar to mould, as it means to carve or fashion a three dimensional work, especially in art. Again, this is a synonym in many contexts, not an opposite.

Common Pitfalls:
Because the word mould is strongly associated with shaping and forming, many students automatically search for a mechanical opposite like break or destroy. When such options are not present, they may become confused. In exam questions, however, antonyms sometimes rely on deeper conceptual opposites, such as shaped versus genuine, artificial versus authentic. Always consider both literal and figurative meanings and think about how the word is actually used in real sentences. Here, genuine stands out as representing originality and authenticity, which conflicts with the idea of being cast in a mould.

Final Answer:
The option opposite in meaning to mould is Genuine.