Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: Reticent
Explanation:
Given data
Concept/ApproachLoquacious means very talkative, given to excessive speaking. A true antonym must convey the idea of being disinclined to speak or being reserved.
Step-by-step eliminationTalkative: synonym of loquacious. ❌Garrulous: close synonym meaning excessively talkative. ❌Verbose: uses many words; again a near synonym. ❌Reticent: reserved, not inclined to speak; the direct opposite. ✅
Verification/AlternativeThink of the spectrum of speech: silent → reticent → reserved → talkative → loquacious. The antonym sits on the opposite side of the spectrum from loquacious.
Common pitfallsConfusing general negativity with oppositeness: choosing verbose because it can be negative in tone, despite being a synonym.
Final AnswerReticent
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