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Question

Difficulty: HardAntonyms and Words Opposite in Meaning

Far from being PUNCTILIOUS in executing his administrative duties, the newly appointed registrar frequently disregarded established protocol and left critical records disorganized.

In the sentence above, which of the following words is most nearly OPPOSITE in meaning to the capitalized word?

  1. A
    meticulous
  2. B
    scrupulous
  3. remissAnswer
  4. D
    punctual

Answer

The word most nearly opposite in meaning to 'PUNCTILIOUS' is 'remiss'.
In the given context, 'punctilious' describes an individual who is painstaking, exact, and strictly attentive to established rules and protocols. The word 'remiss' means negligent, careless, or derelict in fulfilling responsibilities, making it the precise contextual opposite.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the target word in its context
In the sentence, 'PUNCTILIOUS' describes someone who is expected to follow established protocols and maintain organized records meticulously.
Contextual clues like 'disregarded established protocol' indicate that being punctilious implies strict adherence to rules and details.
2
Determine the exact definition of PUNCTILIOUS
'PUNCTILIOUS' means showing great attention to detail, correct behavior, or official procedure.
Identifying the core meaning is necessary to locate its direct antonym.
3
Evaluate the options for the most accurate antonym
'Remiss' means careless, negligent, or lax in performing duties, which directly contradicts being punctilious.
Selecting 'remiss' provides the exact contextual opposite required by the question prompt.

Key Concept

Contextual Antonyms and Paronym Distinction
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Topics

Antonyms and Words Opposite in Meaning

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