Synonyms

Paltry means an amount that is small or meager. In this context, 'miserable' is used as a synonym to describe something of poor quality or inadequate quantity.

A panegyric is a formal public speech or written text delivered in high praise of a person or thing. It is the opposite of a censure or criticism.

Panache refers to a grand or flamboyant manner and style. It suggests a sense of confidence and elegance in how one carries oneself.

A paragon is a person or thing regarded as a perfect example of a particular quality. Epitome is its closest synonym, meaning a person or thing that is a perfect example of a particular type.

To parry is to ward off a weapon or attack with a countermove. It can also mean to evade or dodge a difficult question or accusation.

A pariah is an individual who is rejected by a social group or society. This makes 'outcast' the most accurate synonym.

Palpable describes something that is so intense or obvious that it can be almost felt physically. 'Evident' is a synonym meaning plain or obvious.

A parley is a discussion or conference, especially one between enemies for the purpose of settling a dispute or discussing terms.

A partisan is a strong supporter of a party, cause, or person. An 'adherent' is someone who supports a particular party, person, or set of ideas.

Pathos is a quality that evokes pity, sadness, or compassion. 'Misery' is the closest synonym among the choices, as it relates to a state of great distress or unhappiness.

Pejorative describes words or remarks that express contempt or disapproval. 'Derogatory' is a direct synonym meaning showing a critical or disrespectful attitude.

A peccadillo is a small, relatively unimportant offense or sin. While 'sin' is a broader term, it is the most appropriate synonym provided in the options.

Pellucid means translucently clear or easily understood. 'Transparent' is the most accurate synonym, describing something that allows light to pass through clearly.

Penchant means a strong or habitual liking for something, or an inclination. 'Inclination' is the closest synonym among the options. 'Desire' might seem close, but penchant is more about a established preference or tendency rather than a fleeting want.

A pedant is someone who excessively focuses on minor details, formal rules, or academic trivia - essentially a narrow-focused theorist. 'Theoretician' captures this academic, detail-oriented nature best. Diplomatic and dogmatic don't fit; pedants focus on trivialities rather than grand theories or rigid beliefs.

Pensive means deeply or seriously thoughtful, often with a hint of sadness or worry. 'Brooding' captures this perfectly - it means thinking deeply about something that troubles you. The other options are incorrect: thoughtless is the opposite, repentant means feeling regret, meddling means interfering, and occupied just means busy.

Penance means voluntary self-punishment as an expression of repentance for having done something wrong. 'Atonement' is the exact synonym - making amends or suffering to show remorse. The other options are wrong: remorseless means without regret, heartless means cruel, sinful means wicked, and depreciatory means critical.

Perdition means eternal damnation or spiritual punishment, especially in a religious context. 'Damnation' is the direct synonym. The other options are incorrect: success is the opposite, rejuvenating means revitalizing, recalcitrant means disobedient, and preoccupied means distracted.

Peremptory means commanding or dictatorial in manner, admitting no refusal or contradiction. Authoritative is the closest match as it also conveys a commanding, self-assured tone. The other options (polite, meek, accessible, conditional) are opposite or unrelated to peremptory's dominant nature.

 To palliate something means to soothe something and mitigate is the correct synonym.

 'Ashen' is the correct synonym for 'pallid' as they both mean pale.

Chatter is synonymous to palaver.

A pandemic refers to a disease outbreak that spreads across countries or continents, affecting a large population. "Widespread disease" correctly captures this meaning. The other options (contained, controlled) are opposites, while arrogant and assertive are personality traits unrelated to the term.

Nonviolent is the correct synonym for pacifist here as they both refer to someone who prefers peace or is opposed to the use of violence.