Question

Difficulty: MediumAntonyms and Words Opposite in Meaning

While the veteran elephant proved to be TRACTABLE during daily training sessions, the younger calf resisted every command from the handlers. Which of the following words is most nearly opposite in meaning to the capitalized word as used in the sentence above?

  1. stubbornAnswer
  2. B
    manageable
  3. C
    traceable
  4. D
    physical

Answer

The word most nearly opposite in meaning to 'tractable' is stubborn.
In the given sentence, 'tractable' characterizes an animal that is easily managed, docile, and obedient. The word 'stubborn' means obstinate and refractory, making it the exact opposite in meaning.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Determine the contextual meaning of the capitalized word in the sentence.
In the sentence, 'tractable' describes an animal that is docile, obedient, and easy to train or manage.
Establishing the precise contextual meaning of the target word is essential before searching for its antonym.
2
Evaluate each option to locate the true antonym.
'Stubborn' means obstinate, unyielding, and resistant to control, which directly opposes 'tractable'.
An antonym must convey the opposite quality of the target word within the given context.

Key Concept

Identifying contextual antonyms in JAMB Use of English vocabulary items
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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