Concept:An antonym is a word with the opposite meaning. The word "diligent" describes a person who works hard with steady effort, so its antonym should describe someone who avoids work.
Explanation:The word "diligent" means showing careful and persistent effort, being hardworking and dedicated. For example, a diligent student always completes homework on time.
The correct antonym is "lazy", which means unwilling to work or use energy, avoiding effort. For example, a lazy person often delays tasks.
Now, let's check the other options:
- Meticulous means paying great attention to detail, which is similar to careful, not opposite.
- Efficient means working in a way that wastes little time or energy, which is also similar to diligent.
- Hardworking is actually a synonym of diligent, not an antonym.
Thus, only "lazy" gives the opposite meaning of "diligent".
Answer:The correct answer is C. Lazy.