Question

Choose the word that is opposite in meaning to the given word.
ADMONISH
a) Commend
b) Tolerate
c) Flatter
d) Approve

Answer 1

Hint: Admonish means to scold or reprimand someone. It is a verb. A verb is used to convey action. For example, her mother admonished her for being reckless.

Complete step-by-step answer:
From the hint given to us, we understand the meaning of the given word, admonish. We infer that the correct answer must be opposite in meaning to the meaning of ‘admonish’. Let us analyze the given options to find the correct answer.
a)Commend means to praise or compliment. It is a verb.
For example, one must always commend others for their efforts.
We observe that it is the opposite in meaning to the given word. Hence, we can say that option ‘a’ is the correct answer.
b)Tolerate means to permit or allow something. It is a verb.
For example, no form of disrespect should be tolerated by anybody.
We observe that it is not the opposite in meaning to the given word. Hence, we can say that option ‘b’ is not the correct answer.
c)Flatter means to excessively appreciate someone in an insincere manner. It is a verb.
For example, one must not easily get flattered and focus on criticism instead.
We observe that it is not the opposite in meaning to the given word. Hence, we can say that option ‘c’ is not the correct answer.
d)Approve means to agree or accept something. It is a verb.
For example, my request for a car loan was approved by the bank
We observe that it is not the opposite in meaning to the given word. Hence, option ‘d’ is not the correct answer.
Thus, we can conclude that option ‘a’ is the correct answer.

Note: It is to be noted that one might get confused between flatter and commend. However, flatter is insincere appreciation whereas, to commend means public appreciation of another person.