Question

The manager’s _________ demeanor during the meeting left employees feeling uneasy and unsure of their standing within the company.

• A. apathetic
• B. conciliatory
• C. sanguine
• D. indifferent
• E. effusive
• F. taciturn

Hint:

Focus on the emotional tone conveyed by the sentence. If others feel “uneasy and unsure,” look for words that imply emotional distance or lack of engagement.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A, D

Step 1: Understand the tone of the sentence. The sentence says the manager’s demeanor made employees feel uneasy and unsure — this suggests the manager was emotionally distant, cold, or unconcerned. So, we’re looking for words that imply:

Lack of concern
Emotional detachment
Absence of support or warmth

Step 2: Evaluate the meaning of each option:
(A) apathetic & Lacking interest or concern — fits well.
(B) conciliatory & Trying to calm or pacify — opposite of uneasy.
(C) sanguine & Optimistic or cheerful — does not cause unease.
(D) indifferent & Uncaring or detached — fits perfectly.
(E) effusive & Overly expressive emotionally — not unsettling in this context.
(F) taciturn & Quiet or reserved — possibly relevant, but not clearly linked to “uneasy and unsure.” \end{tabular}
Step 3: Select the best-fit pair. Both (A) apathetic and (D) indifferent describe someone who appears emotionally uninvolved, which can leave others feeling unsure or uncomfortable. These are strong synonyms and match the sentence context best.