In the following antonym question, select the option that is opposite in meaning to the word “Sordid”.

Introduction / Context:
This vocabulary question asks for an antonym, that is, a word opposite in meaning to “sordid”. The word appears frequently in descriptions of immoral or dirty situations, both physically and morally. Recognising it and its opposite helps in interpreting editorial language and literary passages.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Target word: “sordid”.
• Options: Dirty, Black, Corrupt, Reputable.
• We must choose the word that expresses the opposite meaning.

Concept / Approach:
“Sordid” usually means morally dirty, shameful, or involving low motives, such as in the phrases “sordid affair” or “sordid motives”. It can also suggest physical filth, but the main sense in formal writing is moral ugliness. An antonym would therefore describe someone or something with a good name, honourable behaviour, or high moral standards. Among the options, “Reputable” means having a good reputation, which is the opposite of being sordid. The other words are either similar in meaning to sordid or unrelated.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Define “sordid” as dirty, morally low, or shameful. Step 2: Identify which option has an opposite meaning. Step 3: Option D, “Reputable”, means respected, honourable, or of good reputation, which contrasts directly with the negative sense of “sordid”. Step 4: Option A, “Dirty”, is actually close in meaning to “sordid” rather than opposite. Step 5: Option C, “Corrupt”, again is similar to “sordid”, describing moral decay instead of opposing it. “Black” is too vague and does not clearly convey an opposite moral quality.

Verification / Alternative check:
Think of example sentences. A “sordid scandal” is something shameful and damaging. The opposite would be a “reputable record” or “reputable firm”, which suggests honesty and clean behaviour. No one would call a reputable organisation sordid, or vice versa. This contrast shows that “reputable” is a suitable antonym.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A: “Dirty” describes physical or moral uncleanliness and is close to the meaning of “sordid”. Option B: “Black” can symbolise evil or darkness but is not a standard antonym here, and in some contexts it may even overlap with negative meanings. Option C: “Corrupt” also describes moral decay, which is again similar, not opposite.

Common Pitfalls:
When asked for an antonym, students sometimes mistakenly choose a synonym because they focus only on recognising the base word and latch onto the first similar option they see. Always remember to check whether the question demands “same meaning” (synonym) or “opposite meaning” (antonym). Here, only “reputable” reverses the moral sense of “sordid”.

Final Answer:
The word opposite in meaning to “sordid” is Reputable.