Which of the following best defines "contrived" in terms of an action?

The term "contrived" is often used to describe something that is deliberately planned or created rather than occurring naturally. When applied to actions, it suggests that the action was not spontaneous or organic, but rather calculated and perhaps lacking authenticity.

Thus, to say an action is "contrived" aligns closely with the idea of it being calculated. This means that the action was premeditated, possibly designed to achieve a specific effect or outcome, rather than arising out of genuine feelings or circumstances. In this way, "contrived" carries a connotation of being engineered or manufactured, which directly connects to the idea of calculation in executing an action.

On the other hand, the other options reflect characteristics that oppose the essence of "contrived." Unforced and natural imply an ease and authenticity that contradicts the notion of something being intentionally created. Spontaneous suggests an action that occurs suddenly and without planning, further emphasizing the departure from calculated behavior.