"Pugnacious" derives from the Latin for "to fight," so it makes sense that "pugnacious" means eager to fight, argumentative, or "quarrelsome." As for the other answer choices, “merciless” means having no mercy, not stopping for anyone, relentless, and ruthless; “diaphanous” means transparent, very delicate, and fine; “insincere” means dishonest; and “opaque” means not transparent and blocking light from passing through.

“Mutable” means subject to change or "changeable." As for the other answer choices, “invariable” means unchanging; “audible” means able to be heard; “sensible” means reasonable and making good decisions; and “unreasonable” means not based on good sense and logic.

Someone who is “magnanimous” is generous and charitable, or "benevolent." As for the other answer choices, “malevolent” means wicked and unkind; “colloquial” means conversational or using language unique to a certain region; “incoherent” means unable to be understood; and “submissive” means listening to others and doing what they want without arguing.

A “skeptical” person is doubtful, unconvinced, or "cynical." As for the other answer choices, “gullible” means easily tricked; “expressive” means showing emotion, inclined to express themselves, or not reserved; “reflective” means thoughtful, introspective, and thinking about things; and “nostalgic” means fondly remembering the past.

“Venerable" means distinguished, eminent, and deserving intense respect, so "eminent" (widely known and respected for achievements and work in some specific area) is the correct answer. As for the other answer choices, “dilapidated” means in a state of disrepair or falling apart; “obligatory” means required; “perverse” means showing a desire to do something undesirable; “sophisticated” means elegant and cosmopolitan or complex and advanced.

“Lax” means negligent, not giving enough attention to something, or not taking something seriously enough, so "negligent" is the best synonym amongst the answer choices. As for the other answer choices, “odious” means unpleasant, revolting, or disgusting; “prolific” means able to produce a large quantity of something quickly; “tedious” means dull and boring; and “remorseless” means not feeling guilty about one's actions.

The word "resolute" is related to the same base words as "resolution" and "resolve." When we make "New Year's resolutions", we make up our minds that we are going to do some particular thing during the upcoming year. We strongly will to undertake these resolutions and at least intend to follow the path to their success without "turning aside". When someone has a resolute personality, that person is determined to succeed at whatever tasks he or she sets before himself or herself. Such a person could be called "steadfast", meaning determined or resolute.

The word "despicable" comes from Latin roots that literally mean to look down on. The "de-" prefix is found in English words like "descend" and "condescend," both of which indicate downward motion (either literally or figuratively). The "-spic-" root is related to words like "spectacle" and "spectator", both of which deal with seeing or things to be seen. Thus, to be "despicable" is to be worthy of being disliked greatly. Such a person is "looked down upon" (metaphorically speaking). Thus, the best option among those provided is "reprehensible", meaning worthy of condemnation. Notice, being despicable may mean that a person is worthy of being condemned; however, despicable does not directly mean "to condemn."

Generally speaking, it is not a kind thing to call someone "fickle." A fickle person is someone who changes often. A fickle person may change his or her friends often. A scholar who is fickle may change his or her interests often. Thus, we can call such a person "variable." Yes, this word can be used as a noun (as when we speak of mathematical variables), but it can also be an adjective meaning changing. Think of words like "varying" and "various."

When something is lavish, it is expensive and ornate; however this does not necessarily mean that it is overpriced.  Sometimes a very fine thing is just expensive. The beauty and craftsmanship of an expensive piece of furniture may well justify its cost. Thus, it is not overpriced; it is just expensive and beautiful. We can also describe someone who buys or gives out expensive, ornate things as being "lavish." Such a person is "liberal." This has nothing to do with political affiliations. It has everything to do with being "free" with one's money. "Liberal" comes from the same root as "liberty." Thus, a lavish person is "liberal." "Liberality" is the character trait of giving such lavish gifts.