Question

BRISTLE:

• A. cower
• B. feint
• C. equivocate
• D. coerce
• E. apprise

Hint:

Many vocabulary words are based on physical metaphors. "Bristle" comes from the image of an animal raising its fur. "Cower" is the physical act of shrinking in fear. Visualizing these physical actions can help you see the antonym relationship.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This question asks for an antonym of the verb "bristle."
Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
Define "bristle." As a verb, it means to react angrily or defensively, typically by showing irritation. It implies standing up for oneself in an aggressive or stiff manner (like an animal's hair bristling).
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
- The opposite of reacting angrily and defensively is to react with fear and submission.
- (A) cower: This word means to crouch down in fear. It is a posture of submission and fear, the direct opposite of the aggressive, defensive posture of bristling.
- (B) feint is to make a deceptive movement.
- (C) equivocate is to use ambiguous language to conceal the truth.
- (D) coerce is to persuade by force.
- (E) apprise is to inform.
Step 4: Final Answer:
The antonym of to bristle (react with aggressive defense) is to cower (react with fearful submission).