Choose the word from the options given below that is most nearly opposite in meaning to the given word:
Deference
A. aversion B. resignation C. suspicion D. contempt
GATE 2011 · General Aptitude · Opposite · medium
Answer: D. contempt
Define the given word precisely: 'Deference' = respectful submission to another's authority or judgment. Key dimension: high positive regard / respect for someone.
Check each option against the respect dimension: Aversion = dislike (wrong dimension — relates to preference, not respect). Resignation = passive acceptance (wrong dimension — relates to willingness, not regard). Suspicion = distrust (wrong dimension — relates to trust, not respect). Contempt = scorn / treating as worthless (correct dimension — directly negates respect).
Confirm D as the antonym: Deference involves elevating the other person in one's esteem. Contempt involves viewing the other person as beneath one's regard. These are polar opposites on the esteem axis.