Examkin

Question

Difficulty: Very hardSynonyms and Words Nearest in Meaning

Which word nearest in meaning to 'recalcitrant' correctly completes the sentence below?

Answer:Despite numerous attempts by the mediator to negotiate a settlement, the union leader remained 【intransigent】 in his refusal to concede any demands.

Answer

intransigent (or obdurate / unyielding)
The word 'recalcitrant' means stubbornly resistant to authority, control, or persuasion. In the context of a labor dispute where a leader refuses to compromise despite mediation, 'intransigent' (or 'obdurate') accurately expresses this uncompromising stance.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the meaning of the target word 'recalcitrant' within the sentence context.
The target word describes an individual who is stubbornly defiant of authority or resistant to compromise.
The surrounding phrase 'refusal to concede any demands' despite repeated mediation indicates an obstinate and inflexible posture.
2
Determine the word nearest in meaning that maintains both semantic precision and formal register.
'Intransigent' (or 'obdurate') serves as the exact contextual synonym.
Both 'recalcitrant' and 'intransigent' signify an unyielding refusal to change one's stance or come to an agreement.

Key Concept

Identifying high-register synonyms and words nearest in meaning in formal discourse
Estimated Time:1m 15s
Rate this question

Topics

Synonyms and Words Nearest in Meaning

More questions from this topic