English Vocabulary — Choose the closest meaning (contextual synonym). Sentence (corrected): That young man is quite sanguine about the result of his competitive examination.

Introduction / Context:
“Sanguine” is a formal adjective meaning confidently optimistic, especially in the face of uncertainty. It appears in academic writing, editorials, and exam passages. The stem modifies a candidate's outlook on exam results; your goal is to pick the closest everyday equivalent.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Target adjective: sanguine.
• Context: expectations about exam results.
• We need a positive-outlook synonym.

Concept / Approach:
“Sanguine” aligns with “optimistic” or “hopeful.” Antonyms include “pessimistic” and often “depressed.” “Anxious” describes worry or nervousness, which is not a positive belief about outcomes. Therefore, “optimistic” is the best single-word replacement in neutral registers.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Substitute: “That young man is quite optimistic about the result …” The sentence remains natural and accurate. Editorials often write “remain sanguine about growth prospects,” interchangeable with “optimistic.”

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• depressed: Low mood; not synonymous.
• pessimistic: Opposite of sanguine.
• anxious: Nervous, worried; different affect.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing “sanguine” with “sanguinary” (bloody) due to shared root. Ensure you select the optimism sense in human-outlook contexts.

Final Answer:
optimistic