In this English vocabulary question on antonyms, choose the option that is opposite in meaning to the given word DISAVOWAL (which means denial or refusal to acknowledge).

Introduction / Context:
This question tests your understanding of English vocabulary, specifically antonyms. You are given the word disavowal and asked to choose the word that expresses the opposite meaning. Such questions are very common in competitive exams because they check how well you know shades of meaning and usage rather than just dictionary definitions.

Given Data / Assumptions:
We are given:

• Target word: disavowal.
• Options: Rebuttal, Repeal, Approval, Appeal.
• Task: Select the option that is opposite in meaning (the antonym) of disavowal.

Concept / Approach:
Disavowal means denial, rejection, or refusal to accept responsibility or connection with something. If someone issues a disavowal, they say that they do not support or own a statement, belief, or action. The opposite idea would be accepting, agreeing with, or officially approving something. The best way to proceed is to recall or infer the meanings of each option and then identify the one that directly contrasts with denial or rejection.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Understand disavowal. It refers to the act of denying any responsibility for, or connection with, something. It implies strong refusal. Step 2: Consider Rebuttal. A rebuttal is a counter-argument or refutation of a statement. While it may involve disagreement, it focuses on arguing against something, not the broader act of accepting or rejecting responsibility. Step 3: Consider Repeal. Repeal is used mainly for laws and regulations. It means to cancel or revoke a law formally. This is not the direct opposite of disavowal. Step 4: Consider Approval. Approval means accepting, agreeing to, or officially sanctioning something. This is conceptually opposite to disavowal, which is denial and refusal. Step 5: Consider Appeal. Appeal usually means a request for help, support, or a legal review. It does not express the opposite of denial. Step 6: Therefore, Approval is the correct antonym because it directly opposes the idea of refusing or denying and instead indicates acceptance or agreement.

Verification / Alternative check:
We can test the meanings in simple example sentences. If a government issues a disavowal of a statement, it denies that it supports that statement. If it issues an approval of a statement, it officially accepts or supports it. These are opposite actions. Rebuttal is just arguing against a claim, repeal is cancelling a law, and appeal is asking for something. None of those are as directly opposed to disavowal as approval is.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Rebuttal is wrong because it focuses on argument and refutation, not on accepting or endorsing something. Repeal is wrong because it applies specifically to overturning laws or rules, which is a different concept. Appeal is wrong because it is associated with requests or legal reviews, not with approving or disapproving. Only approval captures the opposite core idea of denying or refusing connection.

Common Pitfalls:
A common mistake is to pick a word that sounds formal or negative without checking if it is truly opposite in meaning. Another error is to confuse related but not opposite words, such as thinking that rebuttal is opposite to disavowal just because both appear in argument contexts. Always ask: does this option express the reverse attitude or action? Here, the reverse of denial is clear acceptance or approval.

Final Answer:
The word that is opposite in meaning to disavowal is Approval.