Question

Difficulty: MediumAntonyms and Words Opposite in Meaning

In the sentence below, one word is printed in bold capitals. Read the sentence carefully and answer the question that follows.

Despite the headmaster's stern warnings and consistent disciplinary measures, the RECALCITRANT student refused to obey the newly implemented school regulations.

Which of the following options is most nearly opposite in meaning to the word RECALCITRANT as used in the sentence?

  1. A
    refractory
  2. B
    reluctant
  3. compliantAnswer
  4. D
    remorseful

Answer

The word most nearly opposite in meaning to 'RECALCITRANT' in the given context is 'compliant'.
In this sentence context, 'RECALCITRANT' characterizes someone who is stubbornly defiant and resistant to control or authority. The word 'compliant' means disposed to agree with others or obey rules, making it the precise contextual opposite.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the target word in its sentence context
The sentence describes a student who 'refused to obey' despite warnings, establishing that 'RECALCITRANT' means stubbornly resistant to authority or discipline.
Contextual clues in the sentence define the precise nuance of the target word.
2
Identify the word that expresses the antonym (opposite meaning)
The opposite of being defiant and unyielding to rules is being yielding, submissive, or compliant.
An antonym must provide the direct contrasting meaning to the contextual usage of the target word.

Key Concept

Contextual Antonyms and Word Meaning Contrast
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