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Difficulty: MediumSynonyms and Words Nearest in Meaning

During the high-level diplomatic summit, observers noted that the delegation remained obdurate despite numerous reasonable proposals for compromise. Which word is nearest in meaning to the underlined word?

  1. unyieldingAnswer
  2. B
    accommodating
  3. C
    hostile
  4. D
    obscure

Answer

The word nearest in meaning to 'obdurate' is 'unyielding'.
In formal vocabulary usage, 'obdurate' describes a person or group stubbornly refusing to alter their stance or compromise. Therefore, 'unyielding' is the word nearest in meaning.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the sentence.
The phrase 'despite numerous reasonable proposals for compromise' indicates that the delegation firmly refused to bend or change their position.
Contextual clues provide key information about the tone and meaning of target vocabulary.
2
Define the target word 'obdurate'.
'Obdurate' means stubbornly persistent in holding to an opinion or course of action.
Understanding the formal dictionary definition confirms the exact sense used in the sentence.
3
Compare candidate options to find the closest semantic equivalent.
'Unyielding' expresses the exact quality of being immovable and stubborn in one's stance.
Selecting the option with matching semantic properties satisfies the demand for the word nearest in meaning.

Key Concept

Identifying contextual synonyms and words nearest in meaning
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Topics

Synonyms and Words Nearest in Meaning

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