The trader was amused by the cut-throat rush for the goods?

Analyze the question: The underlined word(s) aren't marked in the text, but the phrase that most likely carries the meaning is "cut-throat rush". It describes a fiercely competitive, intense, aggressive rush for goods. We need the option opposite in meaning.

Explain the concept: "Cut-throat" means ruthless, fierce and intensely competitive. Its opposite would describe something half-hearted, dull, or lacking energy and enthusiasm.

Check each option:

• A. worrisome: means causing worry. It has no link to intensity of competition, so it's not an opposite.
• B. strange: means unusual. It doesn't contrast with "fierce".
• C. lacklustre: means lacking energy, spirit, or excitement; dull and unenthusiastic. This is the direct opposite of a fierce, intense rush.
• D. mad: means crazy or wild. This is close to "cut-throat" in sense, so it's a synonym, not an antonym.

Answer: The opposite of a fierce, aggressive rush is a lacklustre (listless, unenthusiastic) one, so the correct option is C.

Tip: In "opposite in meaning" questions, first find a synonym of the underlined word, then eliminate options that match it (like "mad" here). The antonym is usually the option with the reverse feeling or intensity. Also, remember that "lustre" means shine or brilliance, so "lacklustre" means without shine or energy.