Question

Choose the word/phrase which is opposite in meaning to the italicized bold word/phrase in the sentence.
The scheme proved harmful for the people, the middle income group in particular.
A. common
B. usual
C. specific
D. general

Answer 1

Hint: particular, is a type of word which is used to indicate a specific, discrete and concrete person or thing. Particular means pertaining to be a part of something; partial. For example, i could not find the particular model you asked for, but i hope this one will do. Among all the rainbows colours red, particularly has the longest wavelength.

Complete step by step solution:
Let’s discuss the given options and find the correct answer.

common: The word “ common ” means mutual; something which is shared by more than one. For example, the two competitors have the common aim of winning the championship. Smoking is common between the two.
usual: The word “usual” means most commonly occurring; typical. For example, the preference of a boy to a girl is a usual occurrence in some parts of China. Tomorrow classes will be as usual as today.
specific: The word “usual” means explicit or definite. Pertaining to a species. Pertaining to a taxon at the rank of species. Something which is special, distinctive or unique. Intended for, or applying to, a particular thing.
general: The word “general” means something which is not limited to a specific class; miscellaneous, concerned with all branches of a given subject.

Hence, the option D: general is the correct answer.

Note: Particular means specific, it means specialised; characteristic of a specific person or thing. For example, I do not appreciate your particular brand of cynicism. and general means common. Like in India we have different categories, SC/ST/OBC and among them one is a general category in which every common person is there.