Antonyms — Choose the option most nearly opposite in meaning to ‘‘INDUSTRIOUS’’ (hard-working/diligent vs. lazy/idle).

Given data

• Word: INDUSTRIOUS = diligent; hard-working
• Options: Indifferent; Indolent; Casual; Passive

Concept/ApproachThe direct antonym should denote laziness. ‘‘Indolent’’ means habitually lazy/averse to work.

Step-by-step reasoningIndustrious (energetic in work) ↔ Indolent (lazy).‘‘Indifferent’’ = unconcerned; ‘‘Casual’’ = informal; ‘‘Passive’’ = non-assertive; none directly oppose diligence.

Verification/AlternativeDictionary contrast: industrious ↔ lazy/indolent.

Common pitfallsConfusing work-attitude adjectives like ‘‘casual’’ with true laziness.

Final AnswerIndolent