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Difficulty: Very hardAntonyms and Words Opposite in Meaning

Far from adopting a TRUCULENT posture during the protracted labor dispute, the union leader maintained a surprisingly cooperative disposition, seeking peaceful compromises at every turn.

Which of the following words is most nearly OPPOSITE in meaning to the capitalized word as used in the sentence?

  1. A
    belligerent
  2. conciliatoryAnswer
  3. C
    turbulent
  4. D
    sullen

Answer

The word most nearly opposite in meaning to 'TRUCULENT' is 'conciliatory'.
In the context of the sentence, 'TRUCULENT' means eager or quick to argue, aggressive, or defiant. The sentence establishes a clear contrast between a truculent posture and a cooperative disposition aimed at peaceful compromise. The word 'conciliatory' means intended or likely to pacify and build consensus, which is the exact opposite of being truculent.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the target word within its syntactical context
The target word 'TRUCULENT' describes a hostile, combative, or defiant stance. The sentence contrast phrase 'Far from adopting...' followed by 'cooperative disposition' and 'seeking peaceful compromises' confirms that 'truculent' carries an aggressive, non-cooperative meaning.
Identifying the contextual meaning of the target word is necessary before searching for its antonym.
2
Determine the required relationship
The prompt demands the word most nearly OPPOSITE in meaning (antonym).
Focusing on the prompt requirement avoids prompt inversion errors.
3
Evaluate option meanings against the target word
'Conciliatory' means peacemaking, accommodating, or seeking compromise, which directly opposes the aggressive defiance of 'truculent'.
'Conciliatory' provides the precise semantic opposite needed to complete the sentence's contextual contrast.

Key Concept

Antonyms and Words Opposite in Meaning in Context
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Antonyms and Words Opposite in Meaning

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