There is one word underlined. From the list of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that is most nearly opposite in meaning to…

The underlined word would be “mollify” (to calm or soothe), and its opposite is “aggravate” (to make worse). The sentence contrasts calming the situation with making it worse.

“Calming,” “mitigating,” and “soothing” are synonyms of mollify, not opposites. They all mean to reduce tension or make something less severe.

Aggravate comes from Latin “gravis” (heavy) – to aggravate is to make heavier, more serious, or worse. Mollify comes from Latin “mollis” (soft) – to make softer or calmer.