English Vocabulary — Antonym (choose the word opposite in meaning to the highlighted word). Sentence: His interpretation of the poem is superficial.

Introduction / Context:
In literary criticism, “superficial” comments are shallow: they touch only the surface of meaning. Antonym questions expect you to flip that evaluative dimension. The opposite of shallow analysis is deep, insightful engagement with layers of meaning—precisely what “profound” conveys in academic and everyday usage.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Target adjective: superficial = shallow, cursory, not in-depth.
• Domain: interpretation/analysis of poetry.
• Options: mysterious, difficult, profound, mystical.

Concept / Approach:
We must reverse the depth axis. “Profound” means deep and far-reaching in insight. Words like “mysterious” or “mystical” change the axis from depth to obscurity/spirituality, and “difficult” targets ease, not depth. Therefore, only “profound” functions as a true antonym in this evaluative frame.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Replace in sentence: “His interpretation of the poem is profound.” This reads as a direct reversal. By contrast, “mysterious” would mean the interpretation is obscure, not necessarily deep; “difficult” says it is hard to understand, which could still be superficial in content.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• mysterious: Suggests hiddenness, not depth of analysis.
• difficult: Concerns ease of understanding, not analytical depth.
• mystical: Relates to spirituality; off-axis for literary depth.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing “hard to understand” with “deep.” An analysis can be difficult yet superficial if it lacks substance. Always match the exact evaluative dimension asked by the stem.

Final Answer:
profound