The antonym of Categorical:

The correct antonym for “Categorical” is “Conditional.” Categorical means unambiguously explicit and direct, without any conditions or qualifications. It implies an absolute and unqualified statement or decision. Therefore, its antonym should reflect the opposite: something that is dependent on conditions or not absolute.

• Option B, “Conditional,” means subject to one or more conditions or requirements being met; made or granted on certain terms. This perfectly contrasts with the absolute and unqualified nature of something categorical. A conditional statement is not definite or absolute, as it hinges on specific prerequisites.
• Option A, “Absolute,” is incorrect because it is a synonym for categorical. Absolute means not qualified or diminished in any way; total.
• Option C, “Definite,” is incorrect because it also acts as a synonym for categorical. Definite means clearly stated or decided; not vague or doubtful.
• Option D, “Positive,” is incorrect because in this context, it can mean certain or definite, which again aligns more closely with the meaning of categorical rather than its opposite.