English Vocabulary — Choose the closest meaning (contextual synonym). Sentence: Some people just cannot compromise where truth is concerned.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: yield

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This vocabulary question asks you to select the nearest synonym for the verb “compromise” as it is used in moral or principle-based contexts. In ethics and everyday decision-making, “compromise” can mean to make concessions or to weaken a principle by partially giving in. Understanding these shades of meaning helps in reading editorials, legal writing, and workplace communication.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • The focus word is “compromise” in the sentence: “Some people just cannot compromise where truth is concerned.”
  • The sense is moral concession regarding truth or principles.
  • Options provided: adjust, accommodate, yield, conciliate.


Concept / Approach:
“Compromise” in moral contexts most directly aligns with “yield,” meaning to give way, concede, or stop resisting. While “adjust,” “accommodate,” and “conciliate” are related to making arrangements or fostering harmony, they do not always capture the act of giving up part of a principle or position. The collocation “cannot compromise on truth” essentially means “cannot yield on truth.”


Step-by-Step Solution:

Clarify the sense: compromise (on a principle) = concede or give ground.Check options for concession: “yield” explicitly means give way or concede.Test substitution: “Some people just cannot yield where truth is concerned.” This preserves the sentence’s moral stance.Eliminate near-ideas: “adjust/accommodate/conciliate” emphasize adaptation or peacemaking rather than conceding a principle.


Verification / Alternative check:
Compare usage in common phrases: “yield on price,” “yield to pressure,” “compromise on standards.” In each case, the act is giving ground. By contrast, to “accommodate” someone is to be helpful or cooperative without necessarily conceding a principle; to “conciliate” is to pacify or win over, again not inherently giving up a position.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • adjust: Means modify or adapt; does not necessarily imply giving up a principle.
  • accommodate: Means fit in, oblige, or make room; may or may not involve concession.
  • conciliate: Means to pacify or reconcile; focuses on relationship, not on ceding a position.


Common Pitfalls:
Confusing social harmony verbs with true concessions. In moral statements about truth, “compromise” typically equals “yield,” which carries a stronger sense of surrendering ground.


Final Answer:
yield

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