Choose the antonym of GREGARIOUS:

## The reasoning **Gregarious** means "fond of company; sociable; liking to be around people." Think of someone who lights up at parties and always wants to hang out with friends. An **antonym** is the opposite meaning. So we need a word that describes someone who prefers being *alone* rather than in groups. **Solitary** means "alone; preferring to be by oneself; avoiding company." It's the direct opposite of gregarious. A solitary person enjoys their own company and doesn't seek out crowds. ## Why the wrong options tempt you Options A, B, and D are actually **synonyms** (words with similar meanings) of gregarious, not antonyms! They all describe sociable, friendly behavior. The question is testing whether you know what "antonym" means — *opposite*, not similar. Many students rush and pick a word that *relates* to the question word instead of opposing it. ## Quick takeaway **Gregarious = loves crowds; Solitary = loves solitude.** When you see "antonym," always think: "What's the OPPOSITE extreme?" not "What sounds related?"