Question

From the given options, select the OPPOSITE in meaning to the given word: "Stringent"

• A. Vehement
• B. Severe
• C. General
• D. Lenient

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understand the Meaning of "Stringent"

The word "stringent" means strict, severe, or rigid. It is often used to describe rules, standards, or requirements that are very strict and uncompromising. For example, "stringent regulations" imply very strict rules with little flexibility.

Step 2: Determine the Opposite Meaning

The opposite of "stringent" would be a word that means lenient, flexible, or mild—essentially, something that implies less strictness or severity. We need a word that conveys a lack of rigidity or harshness.

Step 3: Evaluate the Options

• Option 1: Vehement: This means passionate, forceful, or intense. It’s often used in contexts like "a vehement protest," indicating strong emotion. However, it doesn’t directly relate to strictness or leniency, so it’s not the opposite of "stringent." Incorrect.
• Option 2: Severe: This means harsh, strict, or serious, as in "severe punishment." It’s actually a synonym of "stringent," not an antonym, since both imply strictness. Incorrect.
• Option 3: General: This means broad, common, or not specific, as in "a general statement." It’s often the opposite of "specific," but it doesn’t directly relate to strictness or leniency. Incorrect.
• Option 4: Lenient: This means mild, forgiving, or not strict, as in "a lenient teacher." It directly implies a lack of strictness, making it the clear opposite of "stringent." Correct.

Step 4: Select the Correct Answer

Based on the analysis, the word that is opposite in meaning to "stringent" is "lenient". Therefore, the correct answer is:

Option 4: Lenient

Final Answer

The antonym of "stringent" is "lenient." The correct answer is Option 4: Lenient.