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Question

Directions: Each item in this section consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four words or groups of words. Select the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word and mark your response in your Answer Sheet accordingly.

My friend is as stubborn as a mule.

This question was previously asked in
NDA I 2018 GAT Previous Year Paper (22-Apr-2018)
The correct answer is

obstinate

Understanding the Meaning of 'Stubborn'

The question asks us to find the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word 'stubborn' in the sentence: "My friend is as stubborn as a mule."

The word 'stubborn' describes someone who is determined not to change their mind or their actions, even when they are wrong or when other people try to persuade them to change. The phrase "as stubborn as a mule" is a common idiom used to emphasize this quality.

Analyzing the Options for Synonym of Stubborn

Let's look at the meanings of the given options:

  • observant: This means good at noticing things; paying close attention. This is related to sight and attention, not to being unwilling to change one's mind.
  • obnoxious: This means extremely unpleasant, offensive, or disagreeable. While a stubborn person might sometimes be obnoxious, the core meaning of obnoxious is about causing offense, not about being unyielding.
  • obstinate: This means stubbornly refusing to change one's opinion or course of action, despite attempts to persuade one to do so. This meaning is very close to the definition of 'stubborn'.
  • corpulent: This is an older term meaning fat or bulky. This describes physical appearance and is completely unrelated to someone's willingness to change their mind.

Identifying the Closest Meaning to Stubborn

Comparing the meanings, the word 'obstinate' is the closest synonym for 'stubborn'. Both words describe a person who is unwilling to yield or change their position, often despite reason or persuasion. The other options, 'observant', 'obnoxious', and 'corpulent', have completely different meanings.

Vocabulary Revision Table

Word Nearest Meaning / Definition Related to 'Stubborn'?
Stubborn Unwilling to change one's attitude or position; unyielding. (Word in question)
Observant Quick to notice things; perceptive. No
Obnoxious Extremely unpleasant or offensive. Indirectly (a stubborn person might be, but not the core meaning)
Obstinate Stubbornly refusing to change opinion or action. Yes (Very close synonym)
Corpulent Fat; bulky. No

Additional Information on Synonyms and Antonyms for Stubborn

Understanding synonyms and antonyms can help build vocabulary. Here are some related terms:

  • Synonyms for Stubborn: Obstinate, headstrong, wilful, unyielding, pig-headed, mulish, rigid, tenacious (in a negative sense), inflexible.
  • Antonyms for Stubborn: Flexible, yielding, adaptable, compliant, amenable, docile, submissive.

The phrase "as stubborn as a mule" is a simile comparing a person's stubbornness to the known characteristic of a mule, which is reputed for its refusal to move when it doesn't want to.

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