Examkin

Question

Difficulty: MediumAntonyms and Words Opposite in Meaning

Read the sentence below and fill in the blank with a word that is most nearly OPPOSITE in meaning to the capitalized word.

Answer:While the lead negotiator remained completely OBDURATE throughout the discussions, his deputy proved surprisingly 【compliant】 and open to compromise.

Answer

The word that is most nearly opposite in meaning to OBDURATE in this context is 'compliant' (or acceptable synonyms such as 'pliant', 'yielding', 'flexible', or 'accommodating').
In formal English, 'OBDURATE' describes someone who is stubbornly unyielding and resistant to persuasion. The sentence contrast introduced by 'While' requires a word in the blank that expresses the opposite trait. Words such as 'compliant', 'pliant', 'yielding', 'flexible', or 'accommodating' accurately convey a willingness to compromise, making them valid contextual antonyms.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the meaning of the capitalized target word in context.
The word 'OBDURATE' means stubborn, unyielding, or refusing to alter one's opinion or position despite persuasion.
Understanding the precise contextual definition of the target word is necessary before selecting its antonym.
2
Identify the contrast pattern established by the sentence structure.
The introductory conjunction 'While' establishes a direct contrast between the lead negotiator's stance and his deputy's behavior.
Sentence structure cues signal that the word completing the blank must be antithetical to 'OBDURATE'.
3
Determine an appropriate contextual antonym for the blank.
The opposite of being obdurate (stubborn/unyielding) when dealing with negotiations is being compliant, pliant, or flexible.
A compliant or yielding individual is willing to adapt, listen, and reach agreement with others.

Key Concept

Contextual Antonyms in Sentence Completion
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Rate this question

Topics

Antonyms and Words Opposite in Meaning

More questions from this topic