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Question

Difficulty: HardAntonyms and Words Opposite in Meaning

Which word opposite in meaning to the capitalized word best completes the sentence below?

Answer:While the chairman's opening remarks were remarkably MAGNANIMOUS, his subsequent actions towards his detractors proved to be surprisingly 【vindictive】.

Answer

The word opposite in meaning to 'MAGNANIMOUS' that correctly completes the sentence is 'vindictive' (or synonyms such as 'spiteful', 'vengeful', or 'rancorous').
The word 'vindictive' means showing a strong or unreasoning desire for revenge, which is the exact contextual opposite of 'magnanimous' (generous and forgiving toward rivals). The contrast framework established by 'While...' demands a word that directly opposes the noble quality initially described.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the target word and the contrastive sentence structure
The target word 'MAGNANIMOUS' means noble, generous, and forgiving, especially toward a rival or less powerful person. The clause structure beginning with 'While...' paired with 'surprisingly...' signals a strong semantic contrast between the initial remarks and the later actions.
Identifying contrast markers is essential to determine that an exact antonym of 'magnanimous' is needed to complete the thought.
2
Identify the precise contextual antonym
The word 'vindictive' (meaning disposed to seek revenge or showing a spiteful spirit) directly opposes 'magnanimous' in the context of dealing with detractors.
Selecting 'vindictive' creates the precise antonymous contrast required by the syntax of the sentence.

Key Concept

Contextual Antonyms and Sentence Contrast
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Topics

Antonyms and Words Opposite in Meaning

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