Question

Difficulty: Very hardAntonyms and Words Opposite in Meaning

Match each advanced English word on the left with the word on the right that is most nearly OPPOSITE in meaning.

  • PusillanimousAudacious
  • LoquaciousLaconic
  • MagnanimousVindictive
  • ProfligateProvident

Answer

Pusillanimous matches Audacious; Loquacious matches Laconic; Magnanimous matches Vindictive; Profligate matches Provident.
Each target vocabulary word is matched to its direct polar opposite in meaning based on precise dictionary denotations: timidity versus boldness, talkativeness versus conciseness, forgiveness versus revengefulness, and extravagance versus frugality.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the meaning of 'Pusillanimous'
'Pusillanimous' denotes cowardice or timidity; its antonym is 'Audacious', which signifies bravery or boldness.
Establishing accurate definitions allows pairing words with their direct polar opposites.
2
Analyze the meaning of 'Loquacious'
'Loquacious' refers to extreme talkativeness; its antonym is 'Laconic', meaning terse or concise in speech.
Identifying communication registers helps distinguish talkative traits from succinct ones.
3
Analyze the meaning of 'Magnanimous'
'Magnanimous' denotes a lofty, forgiving spirit; its antonym is 'Vindictive', which implies vengefulness.
Contrasting moral inclinations reveals the antonymic relationship.
4
Analyze the meaning of 'Profligate'
'Profligate' signifies squandering resources extravagantly; its antonym is 'Provident', which means foresightedly thrifty.
Distinguishing fiscal expenditure behaviors isolates the exact antonym.

Key Concept

Identifying precise contextual antonyms for high-level tertiary entrance vocabulary.
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