Select the Synonyms of the word: Tenacious

Question

Select the Synonyms of the word:

Tenacious

1. A. Apprehensive
2. B. Staunch (Correct answer)
3. C. Timid
4. D. Vacillating

Correct Answer

Option B — Staunch

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is Staunch.

Key Points

• Tenacious means persistent, determined and not easily giving up.
• Staunch means firm, loyal and steadfast, matching that sense of unwavering resolve.
• Apprehensive means anxious, and Timid means lacking courage — both contrary in sense.
• Vacillating means wavering between choices, the direct opposite of tenacity.

Additional Information

• Tenacious derives from the Latin *tenere*, "to hold" — the same root that gives tenant (one who holds property), tenure and retain. Picturing someone holding on fixes the meaning.
• The noun form is tenacity.
• Note that staunch doubles as a verb meaning to stop a flow, as in *staunch the bleeding*, so context decides which sense is intended.