Select the option that is the most appropriate antonym of the underlined word…

An antonym question asks for the word whose core meaning is the OPPOSITE of the underlined word's sense in context, not merely a word that differs in tone.

Here, "obstinate" means stubborn or unyielding — refusing to change one's mind despite reason or persuasion. Its antonym must describe a READINESS TO YIELD OR AGREE. Checking each option against this specific sense of yielding: "compliant" means ready to agree or yield to others' wishes, which is the direct opposite of a stubborn refusal.

• "implied" means suggested indirectly rather than stated openly — this describes HOW something is communicated, not a shift in attitude toward compromise.

• "categorical" means stated absolutely, unconditionally, or without exception — this reinforces a sense of firmness and certainty, the SAME register as stubbornness, not its opposite.

• "emphatic" means expressed forcefully or with strong emphasis — again describing the manner of expression, not an attitude toward yielding or compromise.

Only "compliant" carries the required opposite sense of willingness to yield, making it the correct antonym.