Select the antonym (opposite in meaning) of the phrasal verb "to lament".

Introduction / Context:
This vocabulary question asks for the antonym of the expression "to lament". In English, "to lament" means to express grief, sorrow, or regret about something. The exam tests whether you can distinguish between words that describe sadness and those that describe praise or approval. Selecting the correct opposite is important, especially when several options are close in meaning.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Target phrase: "to lament".
• We must choose the word with opposite meaning.
• Options include: "to deplore", "to bawl", "to laud", "to bemoan", and "to grieve".
• We assume standard dictionary meanings of these verbs.

Concept / Approach:
"To lament" is used when someone mourns or expresses deep sadness about a loss, injustice, or failure. Examples are "to lament a death" or "to lament the state of the nation." The antonym of such a word must reflect praise, approval, or joy, not another expression of sorrow. Therefore, we need to identify which option describes positive expression in contrast to negative grief.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall the meaning of "to lament": to express grief, regret, or sorrow. Step 2: Evaluate "to deplore". This also means to strongly disapprove of or to express deep regret about something. It is similar in negativity and therefore is not an antonym. Step 3: Evaluate "to bawl". This means to cry or shout loudly, often in distress. Again, it is associated with strong negative emotions, not an opposite sense. Step 4: Evaluate "to laud". This means to praise, to speak highly of someone or something, or to commend. Step 5: Evaluate "to bemoan". This means to complain or express sorrow about something, very close to "lament". Step 6: Evaluate "to grieve". This means to feel or cause great sadness, particularly related to loss, which is once more similar to "lament". Step 7: Since "to laud" is the only option that expresses positive approval and praise, it is the correct antonym of "to lament".

Verification / Alternative check:
Use example sentences to cross check. "The citizens lamented the corruption in public life" can be contrasted with "The citizens lauded the reforms brought in by honest leaders." Here, "lamented" communicates sorrow and complaint, while "lauded" shows appreciation and praise. Substituting "deplored", "bemoaned", or "grieved" would maintain the negative tone instead of reversing it. This confirms that "to laud" is the opposite in meaning.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
"To deplore" means to strongly regret or condemn something, which is conceptually very close to lamenting. "To bawl" suggests loud crying or shouting, often associated with emotional distress and therefore not an opposite. "To bemoan" is practically a synonym of lament, as it also expresses sorrow or complaint. "To grieve" means to suffer sadness, especially due to loss, again aligning with lament rather than opposing it. All these options reinforce the emotion of sadness and are not antonyms.

Common Pitfalls:
A common error is to choose a synonym by mistake because the word feels familiar and associated with sadness. In antonym questions, always slow down, define the original word as clearly as possible, and then consciously search for the option that directly opposes that meaning. Noting that "laudatory" is the adjective form related to praise can also help reinforce the positive meaning of "laud".

Final Answer:
The antonym of "to lament" is "to laud".