The root of this word, "detest," is a verb that means hate or fiercely dislike. Similarly, something that is "detestable" is deserving of deep hatred. Therefore, "hateful" is the correct answer choice. Even if you weren't sure, you could immediately eliminate "pleasant" and "attractive" because these adjectives have very positive connotations. The only remaining choice, "futile," refers to efforts that are pointless, not to objects or ideas that provoke hatred.

The prefix un- means either one or not. In this instance “unanimous” means sharing one opinion. This is closest in meaning to “undisputed” which means not disputed, not argued over. To provide further help, “impotent” means powerless; “inquiry” means formal investigation; “unbecoming” means not attractive; “underwhelming” means disappointing.

The prefix "con-" refers to joining or being joined, and “conjugal” is used to refer to things associated with marriage. As such, it is identical in meaning to “matrimonial.” To provide further help, “regal" means associated with or befitting royalty; “fraternal” means having to do with brotherhood; “matriarchal” is having to do with a society dominated by women, and “patriarchal” means having to do with a society dominated by men. Observe the differences between the prefixes "mat-," "frat-," and "pat-."

One might assume that "sneak" is the correct answer because "guile" means "sly or cunning intelligence" and "beguile" contains the word "guile." However, "beguile" means "charm or enchant someone, sometimes in a deceptive way" or "trick someone into doing something." So, between "charm" and "sneak," "charm" is actually the closer synonym of "beguile," so it is the correct answer.

"Belittle" means make a person seem or feel unimportant, so "criticize," which means point out the flaws in something or someone, is the best match. "Flatter" and "praise" are both opposites of "belittle."

"Behoove" means be necessary, fitting, or proper, so "suit," which when used as a verb means be suitable for, is the best match.

To "contradict" means to argue against someone or to provide evidence to the contrary. So, "deny" is the correct answer. "Contradict" is an antonym of "support." To help you, "abridge" means shorten a written work, "augment" means add to or supplement, and when used as a verb, "probe" means investigate or seek the truth.

The word "exculpate" means forgive for an offense. The best choice is "pardon" because it shares the same meaning as "exculpate." 

“Disgrace” means to shame or dishonor. To provide further help, “dissatisfaction” is a lack of satisfaction or happiness; “disapproval” is the feeling of not approving of something; “disgusting” means gross; “disproportionate” means uneven.

The prefix "con-" means together or jointly, so “conspire” means plan secretly together. To provide further help, “remain” means stay, and “contend” means compete with or argue that.