ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery)Word Knowledge (WK)Medium
The diplomat's <b>conciliatory</b> tone helped to de-escalate the tense negotiations.
- AAggressive
- BAppeasing
- CHostile
- DProvocative
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Appeasing
Conciliatory means intended or likely to placate or pacify. Appeasing is the closest synonym, meaning to pacify or placate someone by acceding to their demands.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Aggressive means hostile or forceful, an antonym.
- C. Hostile means unfriendly; antagonistic, an antonym.
- D. Provocative means causing annoyance, anger, or another strong reaction, an antonym.
Conciliatory
Intended or likely to placate or pacify.
- Often used to describe gestures, remarks, or attitudes.
- Aims to reduce tension, resolve disputes, or win goodwill.
- Suggests a willingness to compromise or be agreeable.
Memory trick: CONCILIATORY words CONVINCE others to calm down.