Question

    Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the word in bold.

    Elisabeth stood at the piano, which did nothing to allay his anxiety.
    A mitigate Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    B simplify Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    C mollify Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    D aggravate Correct Answer Incorrect Answer

    Solution

    The word "allay" means to reduce or lessen (especially feelings like fear or anxiety).
    Its antonym is "aggravate," which means to make worse or increase (in this context, increase anxiety).
    "Mitigate" and "mollify" are synonyms of "allay," meaning to lessen or soothe.
    "Simplify" is unrelated here.

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