A feeling of deep and bitter anger and ill-will, especially when long-standing, is best described by which word?

A feeling of deep and bitter anger and ill-will, especially when long-standing, is best described by which word?

• A. Rancour
• B. Perfunctory
• C. Obfuscate
• D. Rueful

Answer: (A)

Long-standing resentment and bitter ill-will are captured by rancour. This noun specifically describes a persistent, hostile feeling kept alive over time, often resulting in a feud or ongoing grudge. It conveys that deep, enduring anger that doesn’t fade quickly. Perfunctory refers to something done without real interest or effort, which isn’t about lasting anger. Obfuscate means to make something unclear or hard to understand, not about emotional tone. Rueful describes sorrow or regret, which is more about sadness than angry ill-will.

Long-standing resentment and bitter ill-will are captured by rancour. This noun specifically describes a persistent, hostile feeling kept alive over time, often resulting in a feud or ongoing grudge. It conveys that deep, enduring anger that doesn’t fade quickly.

Perfunctory refers to something done without real interest or effort, which isn’t about lasting anger. Obfuscate means to make something unclear or hard to understand, not about emotional tone. Rueful describes sorrow or regret, which is more about sadness than angry ill-will.