Select the antonym of the word diligence, which means careful and persistent effort in work or duties.

Introduction / Context:

This vocabulary question asks you to select the antonym of the word diligence. Antonyms are words with opposite meanings. Diligence is a common term in academic and professional contexts and is frequently tested in competitive examinations. Understanding its opposite helps you sharpen your sense of nuance in English adjectives describing behaviour and work ethic.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Target word: diligence.
• Options: lethargy, exertion, vigour, assiduity.
• You must pick the word whose meaning is opposite to diligence, not simply unrelated.
• We assume the standard dictionary meaning of diligence as careful, persistent effort in doing something.

Concept / Approach:

Diligence refers to steady, earnest, and energetic effort. A diligent person is careful, active, and hardworking. An antonym should therefore describe laziness, lack of energy, or absence of steady effort. It should not be another positive word for hard work. By evaluating each option, we can identify which one clearly represents laziness or inactivity and therefore stands opposite to diligence.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

You can verify by placing the words in example sentences. A diligent student studies regularly and completes assignments on time, while a student full of lethargy avoids work and delays tasks. Exertion and vigour would describe the same hardworking student, not an opposite type. Assiduity reinforces the idea of diligence by emphasising careful attention. This comparison confirms that lethargy is the most suitable opposite.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Exertion is wrong because it refers to effort and often strenuous effort, which is aligned with diligence, not opposed to it.

Vigour is wrong because it denotes energy and enthusiasm, qualities commonly found in diligent people.

Assiduity is wrong because it is a near synonym, meaning persistent application or close attention, and therefore cannot be an antonym.

Common Pitfalls:

Students sometimes confuse antonyms and synonyms when they see several strong words in the options. In such cases, it helps to rewrite the question: diligence versus what. If you rephrase it as hard work versus what, the natural answer is laziness or lethargy. Another common mistake is picking a word that simply feels unfamiliar, assuming that the unknown option is likely to be correct. Instead, carefully match meanings to ensure you are choosing the actual opposite.

Final Answer:

The antonym of diligence is lethargy.