Question

Find the synonym of the underlined word.
He has always been too obstinate to admit he had been wrong.

a)Stubborn
b)Frightened
c)Selfish
d)Cautious
d)Inert

Answer 1

Hint: We use a synonym to use a word that means the same to another word. Obstinate is used to define the adamant, stern behavior.

Complete step-by-step answer:

 A synonym is a word that shares the exact or very similar meaning to another word. It helps us to avoid the repetition of a single word in a sentence.
Obstinate is an adjective that indicates a stubborn, adamant, or headstrong character; thus defining a person who is unwilling to change his or her opinions, or course of action.
In option a we have ‘stubborn’, which is synonymous to ‘obstinate’ and therefore becomes the right answer.
‘Frightened’ in option b is the wrong option. Used as an adjective, it means to be afraid or anxious.
Similarly, ‘selfish’ in option c is the adjective we use to refer to those people who are only bothered by their personal pleasure or profit. As this different from ‘obstinate’, we rule out option c.
Cautious in option d is also wrong as it defines a person who is very careful and attentive in everything he does.
Inert in option e refers to a docile, unmoving or dormant character and more or less sounds antonymous to obstinate. Therefore, ‘inert’ is also an incorrect option.

Note: Always use ‘stubborn’ to refer to lighter connotations. Obstinate underlines extremely hard-hearted determination.