Choose the word that is closest in meaning to the underlined word:-
He clinched the deal with his astute understanding of the business.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → settled
- To clinch a deal is to settle it finally, to make sure of it. With his sharp understanding of business he settled the deal in his favour.
Example: A last-minute discount clinched the sale. - To settle a deal or matter is to reach a final agreement on it. Both words mean bringing a deal to a firm conclusion, so settled is the closest in meaning.
Example: The two sides settled the dispute outside court.
Why the Other Options are Incorrect?
Option 2: lost — Incorrect. Lost is the opposite of clinched; an astute businessman wins the deal.
Example: The company lost the contract to a rival.
Option 3: abandoned — Incorrect. To abandon is to give up or leave something; this again contradicts clinching.
Example: They abandoned the plan because of the cost.
Option 4: comprehended — Incorrect. To comprehend is to understand. His understanding helped him, but the deal itself was settled, not understood.
Example: She quickly comprehended the rules of the game.