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Difficulty: Very hardRoot Word Analysis

Analyze the Latin roots of the following words. Match each target word on the left with its most precise synonym on the right.

  • InexorableUnyielding
  • PerfidiousTreacherous
  • ObsequiousFawning
  • IntractableStubborn

Answer

Inexorable matches Unyielding, Perfidious matches Treacherous, Obsequious matches Fawning, and Intractable matches Stubborn.
Each word accurately corresponds to its synonym by decoding its original Latin components: 'in-' + 'exorare' (not yielding to pleading) matches Unyielding; 'per-' + 'fides' (breaking faith) matches Treacherous; 'ob-' + 'sequi' (following too closely) matches Fawning; and 'in-' + 'tract' (not able to be pulled or handled) matches Stubborn.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze 'Inexorable' by breaking down its Latin roots: 'in-' (not) + 'exorare' (to entreat/plead).
Identify that the word means impossible to persuade or stop.
Understanding the root reveals it relates to someone or something that will not yield to requests, mapping it to 'Unyielding'.
2
Analyze 'Perfidious' using the root 'fides' (faith) and the prefix 'per-' (used pejoratively to mean detriment).
Deduce that the word implies breaking faith or betraying trust.
Recognizing the connection to 'faith' restricts the options to synonyms involving trust or loyalty, pointing directly to 'Treacherous'.
3
Analyze 'Obsequious' by identifying the root 'sequi' (to follow) and prefix 'ob-' (toward).
Determine the meaning is excessively eager to follow, serve, or please.
The concept of 'following' relates directly to subservience and excessive flattery, matching 'Fawning'.
4
Analyze 'Intractable' by identifying 'in-' (not) and the root 'tract' (to pull or handle).
Determine the word refers to something that cannot be easily managed or pulled along.
This root analysis accurately maps the word to an unmanageable nature, meaning 'Stubborn'.

Key Concept

Root Word Analysis
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Root Word Analysis

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