In the following question, select the option that is opposite in meaning to the word “Defile”.

Introduction:
Antonym questions require a clear understanding of the central meaning of the given word and then choosing the word that most directly opposes it. The verb defile can be used for physical contamination and for moral or emotional violation. It conveys the idea of making something dirty, impure, or dishonoured. To find the opposite, we need a word that suggests respect, purity, or elevation in status rather than pollution or violation.

Given Data / Assumptions:

- Target word: Defile. - Options: Pollute, Abuse, Shame, Honour. - We need the word that reverses the idea of making something impure or dishonoured. - The context may be physical, moral, or symbolic.

Concept / Approach:
Defile means to make unclean, dirty, or impure, especially something sacred, respected, or pure. It also means to dishonour or violate. The opposite would be to show respect, preserve purity, or give honour. Among the given options, honour is the only word that carries a strongly positive meaning associated with respect and recognition, exactly the reverse of defile. The other options either repeat negative senses or add new negative ideas rather than opposing them.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that defile means to ruin purity, pollute, or dishonour something that should be respected. Step 2: Compare each option with this sense and search for a direct opposite. Step 3: Note that pollute means contaminate, which is very close in meaning to defile, not opposite. Step 4: Observe that abuse and shame also describe negative treatment or loss of respect. Step 5: Recognise that honour refers to giving respect, admiration, or recognition and therefore stands as the natural antonym.

Verification / Alternative check:
Consider contrasting sentence pairs: Vandals defiled the monument versus Citizens honoured the monument by cleaning and decorating it. Defiling a temple suggests making it impure, while honouring a temple suggests treating it with the highest respect. This clear opposition demonstrates why honour is the best antonym.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Pollute matches the idea of defile almost exactly, as both involve making something dirty or impure. Abuse refers to cruel or violent treatment, which is another negative action and does not oppose defiling. Shame is the negative feeling or condition of disgrace, again related to dishonour rather than respecting or restoring dignity. None of these options reverses the negative sense of defile.

Common Pitfalls:
Many candidates accidentally pick synonyms when under time pressure, because they recognise the connection in meaning. To avoid this, always pause to ask whether the question is asking for a similar meaning or the opposite. Underline the word synonym or antonym in your mind or on the question paper to stay focused on the requirement.

Final Answer:
Honour is the correct antonym of defile in this question.