Tag: softskills

Disavowal refers to the act of denying, disclaiming, or refusing to acknowledge responsibility for something. It's a formal declaration that one will not be associated with something. The other options refer to simultaneity, boundaries, or past time - unrelated to denial.

Repartee means a quick, witty, or sharp reply in conversation, especially one that turns back on the speaker. Option D 'riposte' is the correct answer as it refers to a quick, clever return in speech or action, often used in the context of verbal exchanges.

Allay means to diminish, reduce, or alleviate something negative like fear, doubt, or pain. Option C 'alleviate' is the correct answer as it shares the same meaning of making something less severe.

Enervate means to weaken, drain energy, or cause someone to feel exhausted. Despite the prefix 'en-' suggesting addition, this word means the opposite - to reduce strength or vitality. Option A 'weaken' is the correct answer.

Adroit means clever, skillful, or resourceful, especially in using the hands or mind. Option C 'dexterous' is the correct answer as it means skillful, particularly in physical movements.

Gauche is a French loanword meaning awkward, clumsy, or lacking social grace. It describes someone who behaves in an uncomfortable or socially inept way. "Extrovert" and "eloquent" are actually opposites of gauche behavior.

Importune means to ask or beg persistently, often to the point of annoyance. It comes from Latin "importunus" meaning "unfit or untimely." "Harass" is close but importune is specifically about persistent requests.

An incentive is something that motivates or encourages someone to do something, often a reward or benefit. "Enticement" is an accurate synonym as it refers to something that attracts or tempts. The other options (laziness, tediousness, discouragement) are antonyms.

Ostracize means to exclude someone from a society or group, essentially to banish or cast out. It comes from the ancient Athenian practice of sending citizens into exile. "Encourage" and "increase" are antonyms.

Pecuniary means relating to money or financial matters. "Fiscal" is the closest synonym among the options. The word comes from Latin "pecunia" meaning money or property. "Peculiar" is a false cognate.