In this antonym question, choose the word that is opposite in meaning to Ostentation.

Introduction / Context:
This question asks for the antonym (opposite in meaning) of the word “Ostentation”. Antonym questions check whether you understand not only what a word means, but also which quality stands directly opposite to it. “Ostentation” is a common term in reading passages about wealth, lifestyle, and social behaviour.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Target word: “Ostentation”.
• Options: “Comical”, “Insane”, “Modest”, “Swanky”.
• You must select the option that expresses the opposite quality.
• We assume the standard dictionary sense of “ostentation” as display of wealth or luxury.

Concept / Approach:
“Ostentation” refers to the excessive, showy display of wealth, knowledge, or importance, usually to attract attention or admiration. An ostentatious person flaunts possessions or status. The opposite of this quality is modesty or simplicity, where someone deliberately avoids showing off and prefers not to draw attention to their wealth or achievements. So the correct antonym must express restraint rather than display.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall the meaning of “ostentation”: a flashy, showy display, especially of luxury or importance. Step 2: Examine “Modest”. This adjective describes someone who does not brag, does not show off, and prefers simple or restrained behaviour and appearance. Step 3: Compare the two ideas. “Ostentation” emphasises loud display, while “modesty” emphasises quietness and lack of display, making them opposites. Step 4: Check “Swanky”. It means stylish or expensive in a way that is meant to impress. This is similar to “ostentatious”, not opposite to it. Step 5: Check “Comical”. It means funny or amusing; it has nothing to do with showing off or hiding wealth. Step 6: Check “Insane”. It means mentally ill or extremely foolish, again unrelated to the idea of display versus modesty. Step 7: Therefore, “Modest” is the only word that expresses the opposite quality.

Verification / Alternative check:
Consider the sentence: “His ostentation at the party made everyone uncomfortable.” Rewriting it with the opposite quality: “His modesty at the party impressed everyone.” You can see that in the second sentence, instead of flaunting his wealth, he behaves quietly and without show. Also note how “swanky party” and “ostentatious party” both suggest a display of luxury, which confirms that “Swanky” is not the antonym.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Comical: relates to humour; it neither supports nor contradicts the idea of showy display. Insane: refers to mental illness or extreme foolishness; again, it is unrelated to showing off. Swanky: actually describes something stylish and attention-grabbing, similar to ostentatious behaviour.

Common Pitfalls:
Students may be tempted by “Swanky” because it appears to be a strong, impressive word, but in antonym questions you must think in terms of opposite qualities, not just strong associations. Another mistake is to choose an option simply because it is unfamiliar, assuming that rare words are more likely to be correct. Always start from a clear understanding of the target word and then systematically eliminate options that do not form a true opposite.

Final Answer:
The word that is opposite in meaning to “Ostentation” is Modest.