In the following vocabulary question, choose the word which is opposite in meaning to the given word:\n\nSquander.

Introduction / Context:
This question asks for an antonym of the verb squander. Squander means to waste money, time, opportunities, or resources in a foolish or careless way. The correct opposite should describe the act of saving or carefully keeping resources rather than throwing them away or spending them freely.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Target word: squander.
• Options: Frivol, Dissipate, Hoard, Expend.
• We interpret squander as waste something recklessly.

Concept / Approach:
Hoard means to collect and store something, often in large amounts and secretly, instead of using or spending it. This is the opposite of wasting resources. Frivol and dissipate both describe wasteful or irresponsible spending or use of resources. Expend means to use up, spend, or consume, which is not the direct opposite of squander. Therefore, the antonym must be Hoard, which involves keeping resources instead of wasting them.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Define squander as waste money or resources in a careless way. Step 2: Look for a word that expresses careful keeping or saving of resources. Step 3: Recognise that hoard means accumulate and store, often without spending. Step 4: Select Hoard as the antonym that best reverses the action of squandering.

Verification / Alternative check:
Use both words in similar contexts. For example, He squandered his inheritance on luxuries means he wasted it. He hoarded his inheritance and never spent it means he saved it in an extreme way. These two sentences describe opposite behaviours. By contrast, He dissipated his inheritance and He frivolously spent his inheritance are similar to squander, and He expended his inheritance simply means he used it up, without necessarily implying waste.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A, Frivol, suggests acting in a light and irresponsible way and is related to wasteful behaviour. Option B, Dissipate, can mean spread or scatter and is commonly used to describe wasting energy or money. Option D, Expend, means to spend or use up and can describe simple usage, not necessarily careful saving. None of these options signal the protective behaviour that opposes squandering.

Common Pitfalls:
Some learners may be tempted by Expend because they see it as neutral and think the opposite of waste is simply use. However, squander already includes the idea of excessive use, so the opposite should be to store or save. Failing to grasp this nuance leads to wrong choices. Understanding that hoard refers to accumulation and saving makes it the correct opposite.

Final Answer:
The word that is opposite in meaning to squander is Hoard.