Explanation: Obstreperous means deafening, blatant, boisterous or mischievous. Clamorous is used to describe something marked by din or noise. Subtle can be used to describe colours, sounds, behaviour or implied meanings. It is the opposite of obstreperous. It means quiet, implied, not direct, loud or harsh. An obstinate person is adamant, uncooperative or stubborn.

Explanation: Flagrant means conspicuously offensive, so obviously inconsistent with what is right or proper as to appear to be a flouting of law or morality. In contrast, covert means clandestine, hidden, disguised or done in secrecy. Obscure can be used to describe something that is not clear, is shrouded in darkness or is hidden. Slapstick is usually used to refer to entertainment or a farce. A slapstick comedy is nonsensical.

Explanation: Vapid means dull, uninteresting, arid, banal or commonplace. A cliché is a statement or theme that has become commonplace by overuse. A vivacious person is keen, alert, vibrant and high-spirited. It is an antonym for vapid. A versatile person is an all-rounder, is flexible, can adjust to different situations and perform multiple tasks. Insipid means tasteless, bland or dull. It is a synonym for vapid.

Explanation: ‘Cleaved’ and ‘rooted’ are wrong adjectives to describe canyons, which are created through erosions by a river.

Explanation: The first blank has to be brooked or elicited. However, the second blank indicates that the subordinates apprised the boss of their views in a casual manner, i.e. intimated him.