English Vocabulary — Antonym (choose the word opposite in meaning to the highlighted word). Sentence: The incessant noise of the boring machine made it difficult for us to go to sleep at night.

Introduction / Context:
Here the tested word is “incessant,” commonly used for noises, rains, or complaints that continue without pause. The antonym should express the idea of occurring at intervals or not continuous.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Target word: incessant = continuous, unceasing.
• Context: machine noise affecting sleep.
• Options: intermittent, harsh, soft, constant.

Concept / Approach:
An antonym must negate continuity. “Intermittent” means “occurring at irregular intervals; not continuous,” which is the direct opposite of “incessant.” Adjectives like “harsh” and “soft” describe quality, not continuity, and “constant” is a synonym, not an antonym.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Replace in the sentence: “The intermittent noise …” This change flips the continuity property and aligns with standard usage.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• harsh: Describes sound quality, not duration or continuity.
• soft: Volume/quality descriptor; not the opposite of continuous.
• constant: Near-synonym of incessant.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing intensity/quality (harsh/soft) with continuity. Focus on time-based property to choose the correct antonym.

Final Answer:
intermittent