Discussion
Although World War II ended more than half a century ago, Russia and Japan still have not signed a formal peace treaty; and both countries have been (1) ________ to develop more (2) ________ relations.
*This question is included in Nova Text Completions: Lesson Set, question #34
Blank 1 |
Blank 2 |
reticent |
controversial |
inimical |
hostile |
obstinate |
amiable |
| (A) | reticent |
| (B) | ... |
| (C) | ... |
| (D) | ... |
| (E) | ... |
| (F) | ... |
The solution is
Posted: 03/14/2013 12:30
Why doesn't obstinate work here meaning unyielding or adhering to one's purpose?
Posted: 03/14/2013 14:03
Caitlin, that word would be too strong in this context. Implied in the statement is that Japan and Russia do have a relationship and there is even maybe a desire to improve it, but they are not quite ready to take it to the next level. "Obstinate" would mean that no matter what happens, they would never improve their relationship.
Posted: 03/14/2013 22:07
Got it, thanks!
Posted: 04/23/2014 09:10
Why not hostile since they still have not signed the treaty?
Posted: 04/28/2014 16:16
Emmanuel, it can't be hostile. The first sentence makes it clear that peace has been the norm since WWII ended, even though they haven't signed a peace treaty. The question is then why the two countries haven't wanted to elevate the relation to a friendlier one, hence amiable is the answer.