Select the correct option:
The advisory committee issued a set of guidelines so meticulously worded that any deviation would be tantamount ____ defiance.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The correct answer is option 2 i.e. to.
The word tantamount (meaning equivalent in seriousness to; virtually the same as) is always followed by the preposition 'to.'
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Rule: Tantamount + to + [Noun/Gerund]
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Meaning: Being essentially the same as something else, usually something negative like a crime, a mistake, or defiance.
Analysis of the Sentence
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Context: The guidelines are so strict ('meticulously worded') that breaking them ('deviation') is viewed the same as 'defiance' (open resistance).
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Logic: Because the sentence establishes an equivalence between two things (deviation and defiance), the structure 'tantamount to' is required.
Why other options are incorrect:
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With: Often used with 'consistent' or 'compatible,' but not 'tantamount.'
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For: Often used with 'accountable' or 'responsible.'
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At: Usually relates to a specific point, location, or skill level.
Hence, the chosen option is correct.