In the sentence below, there is one underlined word and one gap.From the list of words lettered A to D, choose…

Analyze the question

The underlined word is "ignorant" (the underline isn't shown here, but it is clearly the word being contrasted). We need a word that:

1. Is most nearly opposite in meaning to "ignorant", and
2. Fits the gap in the sentence: "Many parents assume that their children are ignorant whereas they are ........"

Explain the concept

"Ignorant" means lacking knowledge or awareness. Its direct antonym is a word meaning "having knowledge", such as knowledgeable, informed, or learned. Always choose the word that matches the core meaning, not one that is merely positive.

Check each option

• A. enthusiastic means eager or excited. This is not the opposite of lacking knowledge.
• B. hardworking describes effort, not knowledge.
• C. brilliant means very intelligent or clever. It is a positive word, but it is about intelligence or talent, not about having knowledge. Someone can be brilliant yet uninformed on a subject, so it is not the direct opposite of "ignorant".
• D. knowledgeable means well informed, which is the direct opposite of "ignorant".

Check the sentence

"Many parents assume that their children are ignorant whereas they are knowledgeable." This makes sense and gives the contrast that "whereas" signals.

Answer: D. knowledgeable.

Tip: In opposite-meaning questions with a gap, first define the underlined word in simple terms ("ignorant" = lacks knowledge), then look for the option that says the reverse ("has knowledge"). Beware of options like "brilliant" that are positive but not exact opposites. Also, "whereas" signals contrast, so the gap must hold the opposite idea.