Question

Choose the word that is opposite in meaning to the given word-
KNACK

a. Dullness
b. Balance
c. Talent
d. Dexterity

Answer 1

Hint: Knack refers to a talent, natural skill or the ability of a person to do something successfully.

Complete answer: As given in the hint, ‘knack’ can be used to refer to a special way of doing something. The word ‘knack’ has been derived from the Middle English word- Knack, which refers to a sharp blow or sound.
We know the meaning and the origin of the word ‘knack’. Now, let’s look at its usage-
Example- She has a knack for cracking jokes. Here, we can understand that X has a special ability or talent for cracking jokes.
Opposites or antonyms refer to those words that are contrary in meaning to another. Example- Happy is the opposite of sad.

Let’s examine the given options:
> Option a- ‘Dullness’ refers to the ability or quality of being slow or dull in understanding things. Example- The boy’s dullness and helplessness led to his failure. ‘Dullness’ is opposite in meaning to knack. Hence, it is the correct option.
> Option b- ‘Balance’ refers to putting something in a stabilized or levelled position. Example- She balanced the books on her head. ‘Balance’ is different in meaning to knack. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
> Option c- ‘Talent’ refers to the natural ability or knack of a person in a particular activity. Example- The talented boy sang a melodious song on the stage. ‘Talent’ is similar in meaning to knack. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
> Option d- ‘Dexterity’ refers to the agility or capability of a person to perform specific tasks. Example- She is famous for dexterity with paints. ‘Dexterity’ is similar in meaning to knack. Hence, it is an incorrect option.

The correct answer is Option ‘a’.

Note: Carefully read the meaning of the given word and options. Thereafter, use the elimination method to choose the correct option.