Antonym: in the following question, choose the word which is opposite in meaning to the given word. GRACEFUL

Introduction / Context:
This question asks for the antonym of graceful. Vocabulary questions on antonyms test both your knowledge of word meanings and your ability to distinguish subtle differences between related words. You must find the option that most strongly contrasts with the idea of graceful movement or behaviour.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Target word: graceful.
• Options: AWKWARD, ELEGANT, GRACIOUS, UGLY.
• Graceful usually refers to smooth, pleasing, and well balanced movement, or to a pleasing style.
• You need the opposite quality in usual English usage.

Concept / Approach:
Graceful is often used for movement that is smooth and well coordinated, like a graceful dancer or a graceful gesture. The opposite idea is clumsy, uncoordinated movement, for which awkward is the standard adjective. UGLY deals more with visual appearance, not directly with movement or manner. ELEGANT and GRACIOUS are similar in meaning to graceful, not opposite.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that graceful suggests beauty in movement, posture, or style. Step 2: Identify which option expresses clumsiness or lack of ease. Step 3: Note that AWKWARD describes movement that is stiff, clumsy, or uncomfortable. Step 4: Select AWKWARD as the antonym because it directly opposes graceful in the context of movement.

Verification / Alternative check:
Check usage: we often say awkward movements, awkward dance steps, or an awkward walk to describe the opposite of graceful dance, graceful steps, or a graceful walk. The pair graceful and awkward appears frequently in dictionaries and exam prep materials as an antonym pair, which confirms the choice.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• ELEGANT: Close in meaning to graceful, used for refined and stylish appearance or behaviour.
• GRACIOUS: Refers to kindness, politeness, and courtesy, not the opposite of graceful.
• UGLY: Relates to unattractive appearance; it is not the standard opposite of graceful in terms of movement.

Common Pitfalls:
Some students quickly choose UGLY because they think any negative adjective will work as an opposite. Others confuse gracious and graceful and think one is the reverse of the other. In vocabulary questions, always focus on the precise aspect of meaning, which here is poise and movement, for which awkward is the direct contrast.

Final Answer:
Correct option: AWKWARD.