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Question

Difficulty: MediumAntonyms and Words Opposite in Meaning

In the sentence provided below, fill in the blank with an appropriate word that expresses the OPPOSITE meaning of the boldfaced word.

Answer:Despite the senior negotiator being recalcitrant throughout the trade talks, his representative was surprisingly 【compliant】 and willingly accepted the proposed terms.

Answer

compliant (or alternative contextually valid antonyms such as amenable, tractable, cooperative, or submissive)
The word 'recalcitrant' refers to an uncooperative or stubbornly disobedient attitude. The sentence structure uses 'Despite' to contrast the senior negotiator's stubborn behavior with that of his representative. Therefore, a suitable antonym conveying willingness to comply—such as 'compliant', 'amenable', 'tractable', or 'cooperative'—correctly fills the blank.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Determine the contextual meaning of the highlighted word
The word 'recalcitrant' means obstinately defiant, uncooperative, or resisting authority.
Accurately defining the target word is essential before searching for its antonym.
2
Analyze sentence structure and contrast markers
The introductory preposition 'Despite' and the modifier 'surprisingly' set up a direct contrast between the senior negotiator and his representative.
Structural signals indicate that the missing word must convey a meaning opposite to being uncooperative and defiant.
3
Select an appropriate antonym to fit the blank
Words such as 'compliant', 'amenable', or 'tractable' mean willing to comply or yield, perfectly satisfying the contextual contrast.
Inserting a word denoting willingness and cooperation logical completes the thought.

Key Concept

Contextual Antonyms
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Topics

Antonyms and Words Opposite in Meaning

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