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UPSC MainsENGLISH-COMPULSORY20175 Marks
Q30.

Write the antonyms of the following : (ii) Heavenly

How to Approach

This question tests basic English vocabulary. The approach is straightforward: identify the meaning of "Heavenly" and then provide words with opposite meanings. Multiple antonyms are possible, and providing a range demonstrates a strong vocabulary. The answer should be concise and accurate, focusing on direct opposites rather than tangential associations. No elaborate explanation is needed, just the antonyms themselves.

Model Answer

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Introduction

The question requires identifying antonyms for the adjective "Heavenly." "Heavenly" generally refers to something relating to heaven, supremely delightful, or extraordinarily good. It evokes a sense of perfection, bliss, and the divine. Therefore, antonyms will relate to earthly, imperfect, unpleasant, or mundane qualities. Providing a list of suitable antonyms demonstrates a command of the English language and an understanding of nuanced word meanings.

The antonyms of "Heavenly" are:

  • Earthly: Relating to the earth, as opposed to heaven.
  • Mundane: Lacking interest or excitement; dull.
  • Infernal: Extremely bad or unpleasant; resembling hell.
  • Terrestrial: Relating to the earth or its inhabitants.
  • Unholy: Not sacred; wicked.
  • Diabolical: Monstrously wicked; fiendish.
  • Commonplace: Ordinary; not special or interesting.

The most direct antonyms, focusing on the contrast between the divine and the earthly, are 'Earthly' and 'Terrestrial'. However, depending on the context in which 'Heavenly' is used, words like 'Mundane' or 'Infernal' could also be appropriate antonyms.

Further Elaboration on Antonyms

The selection of the most appropriate antonym depends on the specific context. For instance:

  • If "Heavenly" describes a beautiful scene, "Mundane" or "Commonplace" might be suitable.
  • If "Heavenly" describes a delicious taste, "Disgusting" or "Unpalatable" could be used.
  • If "Heavenly" describes a person's character, "Wicked" or "Unholy" might be appropriate.

Table of Antonyms based on Context

Context of "Heavenly" Suitable Antonym(s)
Beauty/Aesthetics Mundane, Commonplace, Ugly
Taste/Flavor Disgusting, Unpalatable, Bitter
Character/Morality Wicked, Unholy, Evil
Location/Realm Earthly, Terrestrial, Infernal

Conclusion

In conclusion, the antonyms of "Heavenly" encompass a range of words denoting earthly, imperfect, or unpleasant qualities. While 'Earthly' and 'Terrestrial' are the most direct opposites, the most fitting antonym depends on the specific context in which the word is used. A strong vocabulary allows for nuanced understanding and accurate word choice.

Answer Length

This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.

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Additional Resources

Key Statistics

The English language is estimated to contain over 170,000 words in current use, and approximately 47,156 entries in the Oxford English Dictionary (as of 2023).

Source: Oxford English Dictionary

Approximately 20% of the words in the English language are considered to be rarely used.

Source: Global Language Monitor (Knowledge Cutoff: 2023)

Examples

Hot and Cold

“Hot” and “Cold” are classic examples of antonyms, representing opposite ends of the temperature spectrum.

Light and Dark

“Light” and “Dark” are antonyms representing the absence or presence of illumination.

Frequently Asked Questions

▶What is the difference between antonyms and synonyms?

Antonyms are words with opposite meanings, while synonyms are words with similar meanings.

▶Can a word have multiple antonyms?

Yes, a word can have multiple antonyms depending on the context and nuance of its meaning.

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