Examkin

Question

Difficulty: Very hardAntonyms and Words Opposite in Meaning

Complete the sentence by filling in the blank with the word that is most nearly OPPOSITE in meaning to the capitalized target word.

Answer:While the lead prosecutor exhibited extraordinary TEMERITY when confronting the influential witness, his junior colleague approached the cross-examination with marked 【diffidence】.

Answer

diffidence (or timidity / cautiousness)
The target word 'TEMERITY' denotes excessive boldness, rash rashness, or reckless audacity. The contrast connective 'While' signals that the missing word must express the opposite character trait. 'Diffidence' (or 'timidity'), which signifies shyness, modesty, or extreme caution, provides the exact contextual contrast required by the sentence.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the meaning of the target word in context
The word TEMERITY in this sentence context means excessive boldness, audacity, or rashness.
Understanding the precise contextual definition of the highlighted target word is necessary before searching for its antonym.
2
Identify sentence contrast markers and contextual cues
The subordinator 'While' establishes a direct contrast between the lead prosecutor's attitude ('TEMERITY') and the junior colleague's demeanor.
Syntactic structures like 'While X..., Y...' signal that the blank must contain an idea opposite to X.
3
Determine the precise opposite term that fits the grammatical slot
The noun required must express hesitation, shyness, or lack of audacity. 'Diffidence' or 'timidity' serves as the exact contextual antonym.
'Diffidence' refers to modesty or shyness resulting from a lack of self-confidence, which directly opposes 'temerity'.

Key Concept

Contextual Antonyms and Vocabulary Opposition
Rate this question

Topics

Antonyms and Words Opposite in Meaning

More questions from this topic