Introduction / Context:
This question asks for the antonym of the adjective “invincible”. In competitive exams, antonym questions test both understanding of word meaning and the ability to distinguish fine shades of sense between similar-looking options. The context is general English vocabulary, often used to describe armies, heroes, or forces that cannot be defeated.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Target word: “invincible”.
- Options: “impregnable”, “omnipresent”, “powerless”, “potent”.
- We assume standard dictionary meanings of each option.
Concept / Approach:
“Invincible” means “unable to be defeated or overcome”. Therefore, its opposite should describe weakness or the ability to be easily defeated. “Powerless” means “without power, strength, or ability to act”, which is directly opposite in sense. “Impregnable” is similar in meaning to “invincible”, not opposite. “Omnipresent” refers to being present everywhere, and “potent” means powerful or effective. Thus, “powerless” is the correct antonym.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Understand “invincible”: it describes someone or something that cannot be conquered, beaten, or subdued.
Step 2: Examine “impregnable”: used for fortresses or positions that cannot be captured; it is very close in meaning to “invincible”, not opposite.
Step 3: Examine “omnipresent”: means “present everywhere at the same time”; this is unrelated to strength or weakness.
Step 4: Examine “powerless”: means lacking power, strength, or ability to influence events; something powerless can easily be overcome.
Step 5: Examine “potent”: means powerful or effective, which again is similar to being strong, not weak.
Step 6: Conclude that “powerless” is the only word that captures the direct opposite of “invincible”.
Verification / Alternative check:
Use the words in simple sentences: “The army was invincible in battle” versus “The army was powerless in battle”. These sentences show clear opposite meanings.
“The fortress was impregnable” and “The army was invincible” both show great strength, so “impregnable” is not the antonym.
“Potent” and “invincible” are both positive in terms of power, confirming that they are not opposites.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A (impregnable): Near-synonym; describes something that cannot be captured, just like “invincible” describes someone or something that cannot be defeated.
Option B (omnipresent): Talks about presence everywhere, which is unrelated to the idea of defeat or strength.
Option D (potent): Means powerful, influential, or effective, which is again close in tone to “invincible” rather than opposite.
Common Pitfalls:
Learners sometimes confuse antonym questions with synonym questions and choose a word that “feels similar” instead of opposite.
The presence of other “strong” words like “impregnable” and “potent” can distract those who do not focus on the exact requirement “opposite in meaning”.
Not analysing each option carefully and quickly picking a word that looks fancy is another frequent error.
Final Answer:
The correct antonym of “INVINCIBLE” is “POWERLESS”.
Discussion & Comments