Select the antonym (opposite in meaning) of the word “pejorative”, which describes a word or remark that expresses disapproval or belittles someone.

Introduction:
This vocabulary question asks you to identify the antonym of pejorative. The word pejorative is often used in linguistics and everyday speech to describe terms or comments that are negative, disrespectful, or belittling. To find the opposite, you must select a word that describes language or remarks that express approval or praise instead of disapproval.

Given Data / Assumptions:

- Target word: pejorative. - Options: rude, complimentary, derisive, cheeky. - Pejorative words carry negative or insulting connotations.

Concept / Approach:
Pejorative refers to expressions that devalue, insult, or diminish someone or something. An antonym must therefore describe language that is respectful, positive, or praising. Complimentary fits this requirement, because it refers to words or behaviour that express admiration or approval. The other options all carry negative or informal critical meanings and therefore cannot be antonyms.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall a simple definition: a pejorative term is an insulting or disapproving term. Step 2: Consider the natural opposite: a word that expresses approval or praise. Step 3: Check option B, complimentary, which describes remarks that compliment, praise, or flatter someone. Step 4: Examine option A, rude, which is itself negative and could be similar to pejorative, not opposite. Step 5: Option C, derisive, means mocking or expressing contempt, which is again similar to pejorative. Step 6: Option D, cheeky, describes slightly rude or disrespectful behaviour in an amusing way, also negative rather than positive. Step 7: Conclude that complimentary is the only true antonym.

Verification / Alternative check:
Use both words in contrasting sentences. A pejorative term for the group was considered offensive versus The speaker used complimentary language to thank the volunteers. The first sentence clearly describes disapproval, while the second describes praise. This contrast confirms that complimentary lies on the opposite side of the meaning scale from pejorative. Using rude, derisive, or cheeky in the second sentence would not create an opposite meaning, but rather another negative tone.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Rude describes behaviour or speech that lacks politeness or respect, which can be pejorative itself. Derisive means expressing contempt or ridicule and is almost a synonym for pejorative rather than an antonym. Cheeky describes impudent or mildly disrespectful behaviour, often in a playful way, but still not positive or praising. None of these options provide the sense of approval or admiration that is needed for an antonym of pejorative.

Common Pitfalls:
Some candidates may mistakenly choose a word that is simply different from pejorative, rather than strictly opposite in meaning. Others may confuse complimentary with complementary, which has a different meaning related to completing or matching. Paying close attention to spelling and to the positive or negative tone of each option helps avoid such errors. In antonym questions, always ask yourself whether the chosen word would be used in a clearly opposite context.

Final Answer:
complimentary is the correct antonym of pejorative.