Question

Choose the word opposite in meaning to the given word.
SYNTHETIC
a. Cosmetic
b. Plastic
c. Affable
d. Natural

Answer 1

Hint: In this case, we must find a word whose meaning is completely different than that of ‘synthetic’.

Complete step by step answer:
Words that are opposite in meaning to each other are also known as antonyms. Anything that is opposite differs in its meaning completely from the given word. If the word is exterior, its opposite would be a word that means the inner part of a given thing i.e., interior. Similarly, if the word is odious which means to be unpleasant, its opposite word would be pleasant.
In the given question, the word is ‘synthetic’. Synthetic is derived from the Latin word ‘syntheticus’. The meaning of synthetic is anything that is manufactured chemically. Now, that we know what the word means, we must find a word whose meaning is the opposite of ‘synthetic’.
Now, let us consider the given options above.

Option ‘a’ cosmetic means to be a thing that is intended to improve a person’s appearance.

Option ‘b’ plastic is a synthetic material composed of polymers.

Option ‘c’ affable means to be good natured and easy to talk to.

Option ‘d’ natural means to be derived from nature.
Out of all the given options, only option ‘d’ is the opposite of synthetic. Therefore, option ‘d’ natural is the correct answer.

Note: Let us look at the problematic aspects of this question. If you mistake a synonym for an antonym, you may end up choosing option ‘a’ or option ‘b’ as they mean the same thing as synthetic. Therefore, you must understand the question correctly.