In the following question, out of the four alternatives, select the word which is opposite in meaning to the given word.\n\nHazardous

Introduction / Context:
This question asks you to choose the antonym, that is, the opposite in meaning, of the word “hazardous.” Such questions are designed to test the breadth of your vocabulary and your ability to distinguish between words that may seem related but differ in meaning and usage.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Target word: hazardous.
• Options: Perilous, Precarious, Dicey, Secure.
• “Hazardous” means dangerous, full of risk.
• The correct antonym must mean safe or free from danger.

Concept / Approach:
First, understand that “hazardous” refers to situations, activities, or substances that can cause harm, injury, or damage. Words like “perilous,” “precarious,” and “dicey” also describe risky or unsafe conditions, so they are synonyms, not antonyms. The only word in the list that expresses safety and protection from harm is “secure.” Therefore, “secure” is the opposite of “hazardous.”

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Define “hazardous” as dangerous or involving risk.Step 2: Examine “Perilous” which means very dangerous.Step 3: Examine “Precarious” which means unsafe or unstable, likely to fall or fail.Step 4: Examine “Dicey” which is informal for risky or uncertain.Step 5: Examine “Secure” which means safe, protected from danger or risk.Step 6: Since we need an antonym, “secure” is the only correct choice.

Verification / Alternative check:
Make test sentences: “This job is hazardous” can be contrasted with “This job is secure and safe.” Conversely, “This job is hazardous” is very similar to “This job is perilous” or “This job is dicey,” confirming that those words are synonyms, not opposites. This comparison supports the selection of “secure” as the correct antonym.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A: “Perilous” strengthens the idea of danger instead of opposing it; it is a synonym.

Option B: “Precarious” also describes dangerous or unstable conditions, again similar rather than opposite.

Option C: “Dicey” is an informal way to say risky or unpredictable, which is close in meaning to hazardous.

Option E: “Risky” (if considered) again matches the meaning of hazardous and therefore cannot be the antonym.

Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes confuse synonyms and antonyms when all the options except one cluster around the same meaning. A reliable strategy is to begin by defining the given word in your own words and then eliminating options that are too similar. In antonym questions, you should always search for a word that creates a contrast in meaning, not just a slight variation.

Final Answer:
Secure