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Question

Difficulty: HardWord Formation: Prefixes, Suffixes, and Roots

Despite facing relentless criticism during the public inquiry, the minister remained silent rather than offering a __________ response that would display open disdain toward the panel.

Which of the following words correctly completes the sentence based on its morphological formation and contextual meaning?

  1. contemptuousAnswer
  2. B
    contemptible
  3. C
    contemptibly
  4. D
    uncontemptuous

Answer

The word 'contemptuous' is the correct choice because the suffix '-ous' forms an adjective meaning 'feeling or showing open disrespect/disdain', which matches the active context of giving a response.
The correct option is 'contemptuous'. In English morphology, the suffix '-ous' converts the noun 'contempt' into an active adjective meaning 'manifesting or expressing disdain'. Because the sentence describes a response that displays open disdain, 'contemptuous' is both syntactically and semantically appropriate.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the grammatical function required by the sentence structure.
The target word modifies the noun 'response' after the article 'a', requiring an adjective.
Determines the appropriate part-of-speech suffix needed for the blank.
2
Analyze the semantic nuance between the paronyms derived from the root 'contempt'.
The root 'contempt' combined with the adjectival suffix '-ous' yields 'contemptuous' (expressing or showing contempt), whereas the suffix '-ible' yields 'contemptible' (deserving of contempt).
Distinguishes active attitude expression from passive worthiness of scorn.
3
Select the form that aligns with displaying open disdain toward the panel.
'Contemptuous' precisely captures an action or statement that exhibits disdain.
Ensures exact morphological and contextual alignment.

Key Concept

Paronym Differentiation and Adjectival Suffix Functions (-ous vs -ible)
Estimated Time:1m 30s
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Topics

Word Formation: Prefixes, Suffixes, and Roots

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