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Difficulty: Very hardSynonyms and Words Nearest in Meaning

In the sentence below, select the word nearest in meaning to the underlined word.

The sudden imposition of stringent trade restrictions proved inimical to the fragile economic recovery of the developing nation.

Which option best replaces the underlined word without altering the meaning of the sentence?

  1. adverseAnswer
  2. B
    inimitable
  3. C
    favorable
  4. D
    unprecedented

Answer

adverse
In the sentence, 'inimical' describes something that obstructs, harms, or works against progress. The word 'adverse' means harmful, unfavorable, or hostile, making it the precise synonym that preserves the contextual meaning.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the sentence
The sentence describes how 'stringent trade restrictions' affected 'fragile economic recovery', establishing a clear negative/obstructive relationship.
Contextual indicators demonstrate that strict restrictions hinder or damage an already delicate recovery.
2
Define the target word 'inimical'
'Inimical' denotes something tending to obstruct, harm, or act in opposition/hostility toward an outcome.
Identifying the formal register definition clarifies its negative operational role in the sentence.
3
Evaluate options against contextual meaning
'Adverse' directly captures the harmful, unfavorable, and opposing nature of 'inimical' in an economic context.
Substituting 'inimical' with 'adverse' preserves both the exact semantic intent and academic tone of the sentence.

Key Concept

Contextual Synonym Identification
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Topics

Synonyms and Words Nearest in Meaning

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