Question

Difficulty: Very hardSynonyms and Words Nearest in Meaning

During the tumultuous student protest that threatened to disrupt academic operations, the vice-chancellor handled the volatile situation with remarkable equanimity.

Which option is nearest in meaning to the underlined word as used in the sentence?

  1. composureAnswer
  2. B
    agitation
  3. C
    equality
  4. D
    indifference

Answer

The word nearest in meaning to 'equanimity' is 'composure'.
The term 'equanimity' refers to mental calmness, poise, and evenness of temper, especially in difficult or stressful situations. In the sentence, the vice-chancellor maintained calm control despite a volatile and tumultuous student protest. Therefore, 'composure' is the exact word nearest in meaning.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the sentence context to determine the tone and circumstances.
The situation is described as 'tumultuous' and 'volatile', indicating extreme pressure and chaos.
Contextual meaning of vocabulary depends on surrounding descriptive modifiers.
2
Determine the contextual meaning of the underlined word 'equanimity'.
'Equanimity' signifies maintaining poise, calm control, and even-tempered decision-making during crises.
The contrast between the 'volatile situation' and the vice-chancellor's 'remarkable equanimity' highlights poise under pressure.
3
Evaluate the options against the derived contextual meaning.
'Composure' denotes state of calm self-control, matching 'equanimity'.
'Composure' is the precise synonym in formal/academic English register.

Key Concept

Contextual Synonyms in Formal Register
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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