Antonym of Dainty is?

Appeared in: HPSSC Staff Nurse - 2021

Explanation

The word 'Dainty' means delicately small, pretty, and often implies fragility.
An antonym is a word that has the opposite meaning.
The word 'Vigorous' means strong, healthy, and full of energy.
Therefore, 'Vigorous' is the direct opposite of 'Dainty' as it contrasts the concepts of fragility and strength.

Option A: 'Splendid' means magnificent or grand. It describes impressiveness, not physical constitution, and is therefore not an opposite of 'dainty'.
Option B: 'Aggressive' describes a hostile or combative behavior. It is not related to the physical quality of being delicate.
Option D: 'Towering' refers to great height. While 'dainty' can imply smallness, 'towering' is a specific antonym for 'short' or 'small in height', not the broader concept of delicacy.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Antonyms (Vocabulary) as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
This question assesses general English vocabulary, which is a non-nursing subject but is part of the nursing examination syllabus.
A strong vocabulary is essential for clear communication with patients and colleagues, as well as for understanding medical literature and documentation.
What if the word was 'Fragile'? In that case, 'Vigorous' or 'Robust' would still be excellent antonyms, as they all relate to the concept of strength versus weakness.

How to Approach the Question

First, understand the meaning of the given word, 'Dainty'. Recall that it means delicate, small, and pretty.
Next, analyze the question. It asks for the 'antonym', which means the opposite.
Evaluate each option to see which one has the opposite meaning of 'Dainty'.
Consider 'Vigorous', which means strong and energetic. This is a clear opposite to delicate and fragile.
Eliminate the other options by defining them. 'Splendid' (grand), 'Aggressive' (hostile), and 'Towering' (tall) do not directly oppose the meaning of 'dainty'.
Conclude that 'Vigorous' is the correct antonym.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QxXSkUqyv1rKNsMkLdWBsv

Practise the full HPSSC Staff Nurse - 2021

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.