Concept:
- Synonym questions test the exact shade of meaning of a word, not just a loose association.
- 'Allay' means to calm down or reduce a fear, doubt or worry.
Step 1: Fix the meaning of 'allay'
'Allay' = to make a painful or worrying feeling, such as fear or suspicion, less severe.
Step 2: Eliminate the options that mean the opposite or something unrelated
'Arouse' means to stir up or awaken a feeling, which is the opposite. 'Assault' means to attack, unrelated. 'Agreeable' means pleasant or willing, not connected to calming a fear.
Step 3: Confirm the matching word
'Assuage' means to ease or soothe a painful feeling, which is exactly what 'allay' means.
Final Answer: Assuage