Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: Invincible
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Single-word substitutions ask you to replace a longer descriptive phrase with the most accurate single term. This question involves the phrase “that which cannot be conquered.” To answer correctly, you must know the meanings of several English adjectives and pick the one that directly expresses the idea of being unbeatable or unconquerable. Such vocabulary items frequently appear in competitive exams and language tests.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
The adjective invincible means incapable of being conquered, defeated or overcome. It is commonly used to describe armies, heroes or forces that cannot be beaten. Reticent means reserved or unwilling to speak. Insolvent refers to someone who cannot pay their debts. Venial describes a minor fault or pardonable sin. Docile means easily taught or managed, often suggesting obedience. Only invincible directly matches the concept of being unconquerable, so it is the correct single-word term for the phrase given in the question.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Focus on the key idea: something that cannot be conquered, defeated or overcome.Step 2: Consider option D, Invincible. It is formed from in- (not) and vincere (to conquer), literally meaning “not conquerable.”Step 3: Consider option A, Reticent, which means shy or unwilling to speak, not related to conquest or defeat.Step 4: Consider option B, Insolvent, which concerns financial inability to pay debts, not military or metaphorical conquest.Step 5: Consider option C, Venial, which refers to minor forgivable faults, again unrelated.Step 6: Consider option E, Docile, which means obedient or easily managed, almost the opposite of being unconquerable. Therefore, invincible is the only choice that fits.
Verification / Alternative check:
You can verify the meaning by recalling common phrases. Sports commentators may say a team looks invincible when it wins repeatedly and no opponent can beat it. Historical texts might refer to “the invincible armada” or an invincible warrior. In each case, the sense is “cannot be defeated.” None of the other options are used in similar contexts. Reticent appears with speaking, insolvent with money, venial with sins and docile with behaviour. These patterns confirm that invincible is the correct synonym for “that which cannot be conquered.”
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Common Pitfalls:
Some learners may pick words that simply sound strong without knowing their precise meanings. Others might confuse invincible with invisible, which means cannot be seen. To avoid such errors, pay attention to prefixes and roots: invincible contains the root vinc, related to victory and conquest, while invisible contains vis, related to sight. Building vocabulary through word roots greatly helps in tackling single-word substitution questions quickly and accurately.
Final Answer:
The correct answer is Invincible, which means “that which cannot be conquered.”
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