Optimist is to cheerful as pessimist is to

gloomy
mean
petty
helpful

The correct answer is A. gloomy.

An optimist is someone who always sees the good in things, while a pessimist is someone who always sees the bad in things. A cheerful person is happy and optimistic, while a gloomy person is sad and pessimistic.

B is incorrect because a mean person is someone who is unkind or cruel, while an optimist is someone who is hopeful and positive.

C is incorrect because a petty person is someone who is easily offended or upset, while an optimist is someone who is forgiving and understanding.

D is incorrect because a helpful person is someone who is willing to assist others, while a pessimist is someone who is doubtful and negative.