Question

Choose the option which is the nearly opposite in meaning to BERATE

• A. grant
• B. praise
• C. refer
• D. purchase

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

To identify the word that is nearly opposite in meaning to "berate," we first need to understand the meaning of "berate." "Berate" means to scold or criticize someone angrily. Therefore, we are looking for a word that implies the opposite of criticizing or scolding, which is typically to express approval or admiration.

Let's evaluate the options:

• grant: To give something formally. This is unrelated to the concept of criticism or praise.
• praise: To express approval or admiration for someone or something. This is the direct opposite of berating as it involves giving positive feedback.
• refer: To mention or direct attention to something, which does not directly relate to criticizing or praising.
• purchase: To acquire something by paying for it. This is unrelated to the act of berating or praising.

Based on these definitions, the word "praise" is the near opposite of "berate" because while "berate" involves negative criticism, "praise" involves positive feedback and admiration.

Therefore, the correct answer is praise.