Select the one-word substitute for the following description: Showing a lack of courage or confidence.

Introduction / Context:

One-word substitution items test whether you can match a precise definition with an appropriate English adjective or noun. The description here focuses on a person's character, specifically someone who shows a lack of courage or confidence. The correct word must reflect shyness, fearfulness, or hesitancy, not strength or bravery.

Given Data / Assumptions:

- Description: Showing a lack of courage or confidence.

- Options: Tenacious, Indomitable, Timid, Gutsy.

- The word must describe personality or behaviour rather than physical features.

- We assume usual general English meanings of these adjectives.

Concept / Approach:

Timid is an adjective that means easily frightened, lacking in courage, or shy and hesitant. It directly matches the idea of lacking confidence or bravery. Tenacious means determined and persistent. Indomitable means impossible to defeat or subdue. Gutsy means brave or bold. Therefore, three of the options express strength and courage, while only timid expresses the opposite quality.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Use the words in sample sentences: The timid child hid behind his mother when strangers came versus The gutsy player never backed down from a challenge. The first sentence describes fearfulness, while the second praises bravery. Similarly, a tenacious or indomitable person is admired for persistence and strength, not seen as shy or lacking confidence. This contrast confirms that timid is the correct substitute.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Tenacious is wrong because it highlights determination and the ability to keep trying, which often requires courage. Indomitable is wrong because it celebrates someone who cannot be subdued or defeated, again implying great bravery. Gutsy is wrong because it directly indicates strong courage and bold action. All three of these words are almost the opposite of what the definition describes, which is why they cannot be correct here.

Common Pitfalls:

Some candidates may confuse timid with terms like timidly and mistake part of speech, or they may be tempted by impressive sounding words like indomitable without checking the meaning carefully. To avoid this, always translate the given description into your own language and then pick the word that matches that translation most closely, rather than simply choosing the most complex option.

Final Answer:

The correct one-word substitute is Timid, which means showing a lack of courage or confidence.