Question

The antonym of voluntary is

• A. optional
• B. intentional
• C. compelled
• D. impelled

Hint:

Remember the contrast:
• Voluntary = done willingly.
• Compelled = done because of force or pressure. Whenever a question asks for the antonym of a word associated with free choice, look for an option that indicates force, obligation, or compulsion.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept: An antonym is a word that expresses the opposite meaning of another word. To determine the correct antonym, it is important to first understand the precise meaning of the given word and then compare it carefully with the meanings of the available options. The word voluntary refers to an action that is performed willingly, freely, and without any force, pressure, or obligation. A voluntary action arises from one's own choice and personal decision. Therefore, the opposite meaning should indicate an action that is performed because of force, pressure, compulsion, or lack of personal choice.

Step 1: Understanding the meaning of the given word. The word voluntary means:
• Done by one's own free will.
• Not forced or required.
• Based on personal choice.
• Performed willingly. Examples:
• She did voluntary work at the hospital.
• Participation in the event was voluntary. In both examples, the action is performed willingly and not under pressure.

Step 2: Examining each option carefully.
• optional Optional means something that is left to a person's choice and is not compulsory. Since both "optional" and "voluntary" involve freedom of choice, this word is closer to a synonym rather than an antonym. Hence, it is incorrect.
• intentional Intentional means done deliberately or on purpose. An action may be intentional and still be voluntary. Therefore, this word does not express the opposite meaning of voluntary. Hence, it is incorrect.
• compelled Compelled means forced, obliged, or driven to do something against one's wishes or because of external pressure. This meaning directly opposes the idea of acting freely and willingly. Hence, this is the correct antonym.
• impelled Impelled means urged, encouraged, or driven to act, often because of an internal feeling, emotion, or motivation. Although it suggests being driven toward an action, it does not necessarily indicate force or loss of free choice. Therefore, it is not the best antonym.

Step 3: Selecting the most appropriate antonym. Since "voluntary" means acting by one's own choice and "compelled" means acting because of force or obligation, these two words express opposite meanings. Therefore, the correct answer is: [ compelled ]