The English section of competitive defence exams like NDA, CDS, and AFCAT is designed to assess not just grammar and comprehension, but also a candidate’s depth of vocabulary. One vocabulary-based topic that consistently appears across these exams — and especially in AFCAT — is Antonyms.
In the recently conducted Antonym MCQ Live Class 1, we focused on this very aspect of the English syllabus by solving multiple-choice questions based on single words. Candidates were required to choose the correct opposite (antonym) from four given options — a format frequently observed in the AFCAT exam.
Directions: Each of the following questions consists of a word which has four alternatives given below. Select the word opposite in meaning of that word.
Q) Strenuous
(A) Unwavering
(B) Lazy
(C) Unfaltering
(D) Irresolute
Ans. (B)
Q) Convene
(A) Adjourn
(B) Cancel
(C) Dissolve
(D) Postpone
Ans. (C)
Q) Overweening
(A) Clever
(B) Humble
(C) Miserly
(D) Sedate
Ans. (B)
Q) Disdain
(A) Contempt
(B) Penitence
(C) Admiration
(D) Depreciate
Ans. (C)
Q) Thrift
(A) Waste
(B) Invest
(C) Destroy
(D) Purchase
Ans. (A)
For more questions, check out NDA-CDS-AFCAT 2 2025 Exam English Live – Antonyms – MCQ Class 1
Why Antonyms Matter in Defence Exam English Sections
Antonym-based questions are:
- 🔁 Recurring in past year papers
- ⏱️ Time-efficient, as they can be solved quickly with good vocabulary
- 📈 Scoring, since they don’t require lengthy reading or interpretation
- 🧠 Indicator of word-depth, which is essential for future officers who need to be clear and precise in their communication
For AFCAT, antonyms are almost always asked in this direct format, while CDS and NDA occasionally include them in a contextual form (via sentence-based MCQs).
Key Learning Outcomes from the Class
- Improved Word Recall: Candidates learned tricks to remember common antonyms using root meanings and mnemonics.
- Option Elimination: Techniques to quickly eliminate unrelated choices and focus on the most likely opposite.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Exposure to high-frequency and previously asked words sharpened lexical memory.
- Pattern Familiarity: Understanding AFCAT’s pattern of testing direct vocabulary knowledge.
Strategies Shared to Tackle Antonym Questions Effectively
- Learn in Pairs: Always study a word with its synonym and antonym.
- Use a Notebook: Maintain a vocabulary diary categorized into adjectives, verbs, etc.
- Use Words in Sentences: Contextual use makes it easier to recall the correct antonym.
- Revise Regularly: Daily practice of 15–20 words can build a solid base.
- Attempt Timed MCQs: Build speed by solving practice sets similar to the AFCAT format.
Final Words
The Antonym MCQ Live Class 1 was a powerful step towards helping candidates strengthen their English vocabulary foundations. With focused practice on single-word antonym questions, students are now better equipped to tackle the vocabulary portion of AFCAT 2 2025, and to apply these skills across NDA and CDS exams as well.
This topic not only boosts your English scores but also builds your confidence for the Verbal Ability section — an area that can help you gain an edge over others.
