Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: Complimentary
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
This vocabulary question seeks the antonym of "Scurrilous." The word often appears in contexts involving speech, writing, or rumours. "Scurrilous" comments or attacks are not just rude; they are abusive, insulting, and often defamatory. Your task is to identify the option that most strongly contrasts with this negative and abusive quality.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
"Scurrilous" means grossly abusive, insulting, or scandalous in language or accusations. The opposite would be language that is positive, praising, or at least respectful. Of the options, "Complimentary" clearly expresses praise or positive regard and therefore strongly contrasts with abusive speech. Although "sophisticated" is somewhat opposed to "coarse," it does not directly oppose the idea of abusive, defamatory language as clearly as "complimentary" does.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall the meaning of "scurrilous": offensive, slanderous, and abusive language or charges.
Step 2: Examine "Complimentary." It means expressing praise, admiration, or approval.
Step 3: Notice that praising language is the clear opposite of abusive language.
Step 4: Check the other options to verify that they are not true opposites.
Step 5: Confirm that "Complimentary" is the best antonym of "scurrilous."
Verification / Alternative check:
Consider two example phrases: "scurrilous remarks about the minister" versus "complimentary remarks about the minister." The first suggests harsh, insulting, possibly false accusations; the second suggests positive, praising comments. This direct contrast in tone and intent clearly demonstrates the antonymic relationship between "scurrilous" and "complimentary."
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A: "Coarse" means rough or crude, especially in behaviour or language. While related in tone, it is actually closer to being a synonym, not an opposite.
Option B: "Sophisticated" relates to refinement, culture, or complexity. It opposes "coarse" in some contexts, but it does not specifically counter the abusive, defamatory nature of "scurrilous."
Option C: "Insolent" means rude and disrespectful, which again is similar in negativity to "scurrilous," not the opposite.
Common Pitfalls:
Students may be tempted by "sophisticated" because they recall that "scurrilous" language is often coarse and they associate the opposite of coarse with sophisticated. However, the question focuses on the moral or praise blame dimension, not merely refinement. The best antonym is therefore the one that directly reverses abuse into praise, and that word is "complimentary."
Final Answer:
The word opposite in meaning to "Scurrilous" is: Complimentary.
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