Question

Choose the word which is opposite in meaning to below mentioned word-
“Benevolent”

• A. Kind
• B. Generous
• C. Cruel
• D. Helpful

Hint:

Remember the "Bene/Male" divide: Bene- = Good (Benevolent). Male- = Bad (Malevolent). Since Malevolent isn't there, look for its closest meaning: Cruel.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept: Antonyms are words that have the opposite meaning. Understanding the Latin roots of a word often reveals its inherent "positivity" or "negativity."

• Prefix 'Bene-': Means "Good" or "Well" (as in Benefit or Beneficial).

• Root 'Volent': Comes from volens, meaning "wishing" or "willing."

Step 1: Defining the original word.

Benevolent literally means

"well-wishing". It describes a person who is kind, charitable, and motivated by good intentions.

Step 2: Identifying the opposite quality.
Kind, Generous, and Helpful are all

synonyms of Benevolent. The word

"Cruel" represents the absolute opposite of being well-meaning. A "benevolent ruler" cares for the people; a cruel ruler inflicts pain. Therefore, "Cruel" is the correct antonym. The direct Latin-based antonym is "Malevolent" (ill-wishing), but "Cruel" is the best fit from the provided options.