English Vocabulary — Antonym (choose the word opposite in meaning to the highlighted word). Sentence: The young leader was reluctant to shoulder the responsibilities of ministerial office.

Introduction / Context:
Leadership sentences often feature attitude verbs like “reluctant,” expressing unwillingness. The antonym should directly flip unwillingness to willingness without adding extra emotional color unless required.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Target adjective: reluctant = unwilling, disinclined.
• Context: Taking on ministerial responsibilities.
• Options: wanting, willing, anxious, eager.

Concept / Approach:
“Willing” is the direct antonym of “reluctant.” While “eager” and “anxious” imply strong desire (positive or tense), the minimal opposite to unwilling is merely willing. “Wanting” means lacking/deficient, which is unrelated here.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Read with substitution: “was willing to shoulder …” The sentence now expresses the opposite stance appropriately without overstating enthusiasm.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• wanting: Means lacking; wrong sense.
• anxious: Often “keen” or “worried,” ambiguous; not the basic opposite.
• eager: Too strong; adds zeal rather than simple willingness.

Common Pitfalls:
Picking “eager” because it feels opposite to reluctance. Tests prefer the precise counterterm “willing.”

Final Answer:
willing