In the following question, select the option which is opposite in meaning to the given word: Jubilant.

Introduction / Context:

Antonym questions measure how well you understand the emotional tone and intensity of words. The word jubilant is a strong, positive adjective used when people feel extremely happy and often show it through celebration. To find the correct antonym, you must choose the word that represents a clear, opposite emotional state.

Given Data / Assumptions:

- Target word: Jubilant.

- Options: Happy, Excited, Celebrating, Sorrowful.

- Jubilant means overjoyed, triumphant, or extremely happy.

- Only one option should indicate a contrasting negative emotion.

Concept / Approach:

Jubilant is stronger than simply happy; it suggests joy that is openly expressed, often in response to success or good news. The antonym should therefore express sadness, grief, or deep unhappiness. Among the options, Sorrowful accurately conveys a state of sadness or grief, directly opposing jubilant. The other options are synonyms or closely related to happiness and excitement, not opposites.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Think of a sports crowd when their team wins: The fans were jubilant after the victory. If the team had lost badly instead, we would say The fans were sorrowful after the defeat. This direct contrast between victorious joy and deep sadness reflects the antonym relationship. Substituting Happy, Excited, or Celebrating would not reverse the emotion; they would instead repeat the positive mood.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Happy is wrong because it is a weaker synonym rather than an opposite. Excited is wrong because it also expresses strong positive emotion and often accompanies jubilant situations. Celebrating is wrong because it describes outward joy and is a typical action of jubilant people, not an opposite state. Only Sorrowful expresses a negative emotional condition that truly contrasts with exuberant happiness.

Common Pitfalls:

Students sometimes select words like Happy or Excited, thinking that the test is asking for a similar meaning rather than an opposite one. Others may rush through the question and miss the phrase opposite in meaning. Always read the instruction carefully and mentally tag the word as positive or negative. Then look for a choice that is clearly on the other side of the emotional spectrum.

Final Answer:

The word that is opposite in meaning to jubilant is Sorrowful.