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Difficulty: MediumAntonyms and Words Opposite in Meaning

Read the sentence below carefully. Which word opposite in meaning to the bold word correctly completes the blank?

Answer:Although the newly appointed secretary accepted the challenging assignment with remarkable alacrity, her experienced colleague received the same task with obvious 【reluctance】.

Answer

reluctance (or hesitation / unwillingness / apathy / lethargy)
The word 'alacrity' refers to cheerful readiness, promptness, or eagerness. In the context of the sentence, the word 'Although' establishes a clear contrast between the secretary's enthusiastic acceptance and her colleague's response. The word needed for the blank must mean unwillingness or lack of eagerness. Words like 'reluctance', 'hesitation', or 'unwillingness' provide the precise contextual antonym required.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the meaning of the bold target word in context.
The word 'alacrity' means brisk and eager readiness, promptness, or enthusiasm.
Determining the contextual meaning of the target word is the first step in identifying its antonym.
2
Examine the sentence structure for contextual clues.
The subordinating conjunction 'Although' signals a contrast between how the secretary accepted the assignment ('with alacrity') and how her colleague received it.
The sentence requires a word that presents a direct contrast to eager readiness.
3
Identify valid antonyms for the blank.
Words such as 'reluctance', 'hesitation', 'unwillingness', or 'apathy' mean an unwillingness or lack of eagerness to act, serving as direct antonyms of 'alacrity'.
These terms precisely complete the contrast demanded by the sentence.

Key Concept

Antonyms and Words Opposite in Meaning
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Antonyms and Words Opposite in Meaning

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