In the sentence below, there is one underlined word and one gap.From the list of words lettered A to D, choose the one that is most nearly opposite in meaning to the underlined word and that will at the same time correctly fill the gap in the sentence.
Rather than heed advice, the children .......it
defied
countered
ignored
spurned
Explanation
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Sentence: “Rather than heed advice, the children … it.”
Heed = to follow or pay attention to advice.
The phrase “Rather than” shows they did the opposite — it’s not just ignoring, it’s actively going against it.
Ignored = passive; they just didn’t notice or didn’t care, but it doesn’t imply action.
Defied = active; they deliberately went against the advice, which matches the meaning of “rather than heed.”
The correct answer is C. ignored.
"Ignored" fits best in the context as it means the children paid no attention to the advice given. The other options suggest different actions that don't align as well:
Defied: Actively went against the advice.
Countered: Argued against the advice.
Spurned: Rejected the advice with contempt.
