In this vocabulary question, choose the correct antonym (opposite in meaning) of the word “Censure”.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: commend

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
The question asks for the antonym, that is, the word with opposite meaning, of “censure”. Vocabulary questions of this type are common in English language sections of competitive exams. They check not only your recognition of a target word but also how clearly you can contrast it with common verbs that may appear similar or simply neutral.


Given Data / Assumptions:

    • Target word: censure. • Options: commend, augment, enthral, reform. • We assume standard dictionary meanings in general English usage. • The task is to find a word that expresses the opposite attitude or action to censure.


Concept / Approach:
“Censure” means strong disapproval or criticism, usually in a formal or serious way. For example, a committee may censure a member for misconduct. The antonym should therefore express praise, approval, or positive judgment. Among the options, we look for a verb that indicates praising or expressing approval rather than criticising or disapproving.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Understand “censure”. To censure someone is to blame or criticise them severely, often in an official capacity. It is stronger than simple mild disapproval. Step 2: Consider the meaning of each option. Commend means to praise or express approval of someone or something. For example, a manager may commend an employee for good work. Augment means to increase, enlarge, or make something greater in quantity or degree. Enthral means to fascinate, captivate, or hold someone's attention completely. Reform means to improve something or someone by making changes, usually for the better. Step 3: Identify the word that is opposite in attitude to “censure”. “Commend” stands in clear opposition: censure means express strong disapproval, commend means express strong approval or praise.


Verification / Alternative check:
In official or formal contexts, the contrast is often seen clearly. A parliament or committee may censure a member for misconduct, but it may commend a member for exemplary service. Both verbs are used with similar grammatical patterns but convey opposite judgments. The other options do not offer this direct contrast. Augment and reform deal with change, and enthral relates to holding attention, none of which are about formal praise or blame.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
• Augment: Means to increase or enlarge. It does not express any judgment, positive or negative, so it is not an antonym of censure. • Enthral: Means to fascinate or captivate. This is unrelated to expressing approval or disapproval. • Reform: Means to improve by correction or change. It might be a response after censure but it is not the opposite meaning of the word itself.


Common Pitfalls:
Learners sometimes confuse “reform” as an opposite because they imagine a person going from bad behaviour to good behaviour. However, antonym questions are about the meanings of the words themselves, not a story around them. The precise semantic opposite of strong criticism is strong praise or approval, which is exactly what “commend” expresses. Keeping focus on direct semantic contrast is essential for antonym questions.


Final Answer:
The correct antonym of “censure” is commend.

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