What is to ardent as indifferent is to which adjective?

To understand the relationship between "ardent" and "indifferent," it's essential to recognize that these words are opposites in terms of emotional intensity. "Ardent" describes a passionate or fervent attitude, while "indifferent" signifies a lack of interest, concern, or enthusiasm. Thus, the question is asking for a word that has a similar opposing relationship to "indifferent."

The correct answer, "stoic," accurately captures this relationship. A stoic person is someone who endures pain or hardship without showing their feelings or complaining, often embodying a calm detachment from emotional reactions. This contrasts well with "indifferent," as both terms relate to a lack of emotional response, but "stoic" implies a level of enduring instead of merely not caring.

In contrast, the other adjectives do not align appropriately with the meaning and emotional connotation derived from "indifferent." "Selfish" refers to a focus on one's personal gain, which does not express an emotional response or lack thereof. "Apathetic" does relate to a lack of interest, but it doesn't communicate the same nuance of enduring as "stoic" does. Finally, "smart" is unrelated as it describes intelligence rather than an emotional disposition. Thus