Question

Choose the option which means the opposite of the given word:
Callous
a. hardened
b. soft
c. sensitive
d. compact

Answer 1

Hint: Use the given word in a sentence in order to fully understand its meaning perfectly. Look at the given options and understand each of their meanings. Then, choose the correct option accordingly.

Complete answer: An antonym is any word that is exactly the opposite in meaning to another word, in the same linguistic bracket. They express things that are opposite in meaning to each other.
For example, the words ‘far’ and ‘near’ are antonyms of each other, as they convey opposite meanings when used in the same context.
The word ‘callous’ refers to ‘showing or having cruel disregard for others'. This word is usually used as an adjective and its noun can be written as ‘callousness’. Another antonym of this word is ‘heartless’.
Now, we know the meaning and usage of the word ‘callous’. Let’s look at our options-
a. hardened - The word ‘hardened’ refers to ‘having become or been made hard or harder', so this has a completely different meaning to the given word. It is not the antonym of the word ‘callous’. It is not the required answer. So, this is an incorrect option.
b. soft - The word ‘soft’ refers to ‘easy to mould, cut, compress, or fold; not hard or firm to the touch', so this has a completely different meaning to the given word. It is not the antonym of the word ‘callous’. It is not the required answer. So, this is an incorrect option.
c. sensitive - The word ‘sensitive’ refers to ‘having or displaying a quick and delicate appreciation of others' feelings', so this has the exact opposite meaning to the given word. This is the antonym of ‘callous’. This is the required answer. So, this is the correct option.
d. compact - The word ‘compact’ refers to ‘closely and neatly packed together; dense', so this has a completely different meaning to the given word. It is not the antonym of the word ‘callous’. It is not the required answer. So, this is an incorrect option. Note: Some frequently used synonyms of callous are heartless, unfeeling, uncaring, cold, cold-hearted, hard while antonyms are compassionate, kind etc.