Final answer:
The word 'redoubtable' means commanding respect, often due to being large, powerful, or impressive. The most appropriate option that aligns with this word is 1) dreadful; however, this is not a perfect fit due to the negative modern usage of 'dreadful'. The other options do not capture the essence of 'redoubtable'. The correct option is 1.
Step-by-step explanation:
The word 'redoubtable' can be somewhat misleading because it might seem negative at first glance. However, the correct meaning of 'redoubtable' is actually commanding respect. It can describe something that is formidable, especially through being large, powerful, or impressive.
This term is often applied to individuals whom others regard with a mix of respect and fear because of their abilities or achievements. Consequently, from the provided options, the closest in meaning to 'redoubtable' would be option 1) dreadful, if we consider 'dreadful' in the archaic sense of 'commanding great respect or fear'.
But given the modern negative connotations of 'dreadful', this might not be a perfect fit. The word 'dire' similarly has negative connotations that do not align with the meaning of 'redoubtable'. Options 3) comforting and 4) humble are very much the opposite of what 'redoubtable' implies and can be easily dismissed. The correct option is 1.