Directions: item in this section consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four words. Select the option that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word and mark your response in your Answer Sheet accordingly.

His ostentatious behaviour surprised everyone.

Question

Question

This question was previously asked in

UPSC NDA-II (General Ability) Official Paper-I (Held On: 03 Sept, 2023)

Answer 1

The correct answer is 'modest'.

Key Points

Ostentatious refers to something or someone that is highly showy, intrusive or pretentious in order to attract attention or impress. It usually holds a negative connotation and implies an excessive display of wealth, luxury, or vanity. (दिखावटी)
- Example: He drove an ostentatious car, bright red, and decorated with flashy rims.
The opposite of ostentatious is something or someone who is unassuming, low-key or avoids drawing attention, which fits the definition of the word 'modest'. (संयमी)
- Example: Despite his success, he remained a modest individual who preferred a simple lifestyle.
Hence, the correct antonym is 'modest'.

Therefore, the correct answer is “Option 2".

Additional Information

Tawdry (सस्ता और बेकार): This word generally refers to something cheap and of poor quality, often with a gaudy or flashy appearance. It doesn't necessarily reflect the opposite of ostentatious.
Gaudy (भड़कीला): This is a synonym for ostentatious, not an antonym. It refers to something excessively showy in a tasteless or vulgar way.
Apparent (स्पष्ट): This means clearly visible or understood, having an appearance of truth or fact. It doesn't have a direct contrast with 'ostentatious'.