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.
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.
Important Questions from Synonyms or Antonyms
Directions: Each item in this section consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four options, (a), (b), (c) and (d). Select the option that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word and mark your response accordingly.
He had the audacity to blame him.
Directions: Each item in this section consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four options, (a), (b), (c) and (d). Select the option that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word and mark your response accordingly.
There is exponential growth in the development of the scientific researches in the recent few decades.
Directions : Item in this section consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four words/group of words (a), (b), (c) and (d). Select the option that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word and mark your response in the Answer Sheet accordingly.
The itinerary of the group’s visit to the hills was given to everyone.
Directions : Item in this section consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four words/group of words (a), (b), (c) and (d). Select the option that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word and mark your response in the Answer Sheet accordingly.
All mortal elements are impermanent.
Directions : Item in this section consists of a sentence with an underlined word followed by four words (a), (b), (c) and (d). Select the option that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word and mark your response in the Answer Sheet accordingly.
The novel depicts the hapless status of certain sections of society.
