Correct Answer:
B. Attentive
The word “nonchalant” describes someone who appears or feels casually calm and relaxed, showing a lack of concern, interest, or enthusiasm. It implies an air of indifference or unconcern, often suggesting a deliberate attempt to seem unaffected. To find its antonym, we need a word that signifies the opposite of this detached attitude.
“Attentive” is the correct antonym because it means paying close attention, being watchful, and showing interest or concern. This directly contrasts with the lack of interest and casual indifference implied by “nonchalant.”
- “Casual” is incorrect as it is a synonym or very close in meaning to nonchalant, describing a relaxed and informal attitude.
- “Blase” is incorrect because it means unimpressed or indifferent to something because one has experienced or seen it so often before, which is very similar to being nonchalant.
- “Indifferent” is incorrect as it is a direct synonym of nonchalant, meaning having no particular interest or sympathy; unconcerned.