Correct Answer:
C. Mean
The correct answer is "Mean". This question asks for the antonym of "GENEROUS," which means a word with the opposite meaning.
- GENEROUS: This adjective describes someone who is willing to give money, help, or kindness freely. A generous person is characterized by liberality and a readiness to share or give more than is expected.
- MEAN: In this context, "mean" is an adjective that describes someone who is unwilling to give or share, often characterized by selfishness, stinginess, or unkindness. It directly contrasts with the idea of giving freely.
Now, let's look at the other options:
- Kind: This is a synonym or a closely related positive trait to generous, not an antonym.
- Helpful: This describes someone who provides assistance, which can be a characteristic of a generous person, but it's not the opposite.
- Charitable: This is a strong synonym for generous, referring to giving to those in need.
Therefore, "Mean" is the most direct and appropriate antonym for "GENEROUS," as it represents the opposite quality of being unwilling to give or share.