In the sentence 'The captain's calm demeanor under fire inspired confidence,' which word is closest in meaning to 'demeanor'?

• A. Appearance
• B. Conduct
• C. Behavior
• D. Bearing

Answer: (C)

Demeanor refers to the outward manner in which someone presents themselves—their behavior, mood, and how they carry themselves. In this sentence, the captain’s calm demeanor under fire describes how he behaves and presents himself during a tense moment, which is what inspires confidence in others. Appearance focuses on looks, which isn’t the point here; bearing is about posture or the way one carries oneself, which is narrower than the overall behavior; conduct can be close but often carries a sense of formal actions or rules. Behavior is the most direct match to the idea of outward actions and manner under pressure, making it the best choice.