Question

Difficulty: MediumSynonyms and Words Nearest in Meaning

Complete the statement below by supplying the word nearest in meaning to 'reserved' or 'uncommunicative' to fit the contextual blank.

Answer:Unlike his communicative colleagues, the new manager remained notably 【taciturn】 during staff meetings, speaking only when directly addressed.

Answer

The correct word to complete the sentence is 'taciturn' (or 'reticent'), which describes someone who is habitually quiet or disinclined to talk.
The context describes an individual who refrains from talking unless spoken to directly, contrasting with colleagues who are communicative. The term 'taciturn' (or 'reticent') means reserved or disinclined to speak, perfectly matching the contextual requirement.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context clues within the sentence.
The target individual is contrasted with 'communicative colleagues' and is described as speaking 'only when directly addressed'.
This establishes that the required word must denote silence, brevity, or reluctance in speech.
2
Determine the word nearest in meaning that satisfies the grammatical and contextual requirements.
'Taciturn' (or 'reticent') precisely means reserved or uncommunicative in speech.
It matches the contrast set up in the sentence structure.

Key Concept

Contextual Synonyms and Words Nearest in Meaning
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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