Step 1: Understanding the Word:
'Confess' is a verb meaning to admit or acknowledge that one has done something wrong or is ashamed of something.
Step 2: Finding the Antonym:
The opposite of admitting something is refusing to admit it.
Let's analyze the options:
- (A) Deny: This means to state that one refuses to admit the truth or existence of something. This is the direct opposite of confess.
- (B) Assert: This means to state a fact or belief confidently and forcefully. It's about stating something, not admitting or denying wrongdoing.
- (C) Contest: This means to oppose or challenge something. While you might contest an accusation, 'deny' is the more direct antonym for 'confess'.
- (D) Contend: This means to struggle to surmount a difficulty or to assert something as a position in an argument. Not a direct opposite.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct antonym of 'Confess' is Deny.