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Difficulty: HardSynonyms and Words Nearest in Meaning

Which word nearest in meaning to 'obstinately unyielding' or 'stubborn' correctly completes the sentence below?

Answer:Despite prolonged mediation by the reconciliation committee, the faction leaders remained completely 【intransigent】 in their positions, frustrating all attempts at compromise.

Answer

The word 'intransigent' (or 'obdurate') correctly completes the sentence, as it signifies an unyielding, refusal to compromise attitude that matches the context of failed mediation.
The term 'intransigent' means refusing to agree or compromise, perfectly matching the context where faction leaders frustrate mediation by holding obstinately to their positions.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the sentence
The clause 'frustrating all attempts at compromise' indicates that the faction leaders refused to alter their positions despite mediation.
Contextual clues demand an adjective denoting severe stubbornness or unyielding refusal to compromise.
2
Identify the precise lexical synonym required
Words such as 'intransigent', 'obdurate', or 'recalcitrant' precisely convey an uncompromising, obstinate attitude within formal socio-political register.
These terms function as exact formal synonyms for 'obstinately unyielding' in high-level English usage.

Key Concept

Contextual Vocabulary and Synonyms
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Topics

Synonyms and Words Nearest in Meaning

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