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

Step 1: Analyze the question The underlined word is inquisitiveness, which means eagerness to know or learn things, or curiosity. We need a word that:

1. Is nearly opposite in meaning to inquisitiveness, and
2. Fits the gap: "Binetou's inquisitiveness is in sharp contrast with her sister's __."

Step 2: Explain the concept This is an antonym question with a grammatical fit. The word must be a noun, because it follows "her sister's". It must also express the opposite of curiosity.

Step 3: Test each option

• A. indifference: lack of interest or concern. This is the direct opposite of curiosity, since a curious person wants to know and an indifferent person does not care. It is a noun and fits the gap.
• B. noisiness: this is about making noise, which has nothing to do with curiosity.
• C. calmness: this is about being peaceful. A curious person can be calm too, so it is not a true opposite.
• D. dullness: this suggests lack of intelligence or liveliness. It is related to being slow, but it is not the opposite of curiosity.

Step 4: Check the sentence "Binetou's inquisitiveness is in sharp contrast with her sister's indifference." This makes sense: one sister is eager to know, the other does not care.

Exam tip: For "opposite meaning" questions, first work out the exact meaning of the underlined word (here, curiosity), then pick the word that reverses that specific idea, not just any loosely contrasting quality. Also check the part of speech so the word fits the gap.