In the following question on antonyms, out of the four given alternatives, select the one which is opposite in meaning to the word "Sneer".

Introduction / Context:
This question focuses on the word "sneer" and asks you to choose its antonym. "Sneer" is commonly used to describe a facial expression or tone of voice that shows contempt or scorn. Understanding both the emotional content and the direction of that emotion is necessary to pick the opposite meaning correctly.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Target word: "Sneer".
• Options: "Praise", "Scorn", "Mock", and "Despise".
• "Sneer" typically refers to a contemptuous or mocking smile or remark.
• The antonym should reflect a positive or appreciative attitude rather than contempt.

Concept / Approach:
To "sneer" is to smile or speak in a way that shows disrespect, scorn, or mockery. Someone who sneers at another person clearly looks down on them. The opposite of despising or mocking is to show approval and admiration. Among the options, "Praise" is the only word that represents a positive, appreciative response. The others, "Scorn", "Mock", and "Despise", are close in meaning to "sneer" and therefore cannot be antonyms.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Recall that "sneer" involves showing contempt in expression or words.Recognise that its opposite should involve showing respect, approval, or admiration.Check each option: "Scorn" means strong contempt; "Mock" means to make fun of; "Despise" means to look down on with intense dislike.All three are negative and similar to "sneer"."Praise" means to express warm approval or admiration and is therefore the opposite of sneering at someone.

Verification / Alternative check:
Imagine practical use: "He sneered at her efforts" suggests insult and mockery. The opposite situation is "He praised her efforts", meaning he appreciated or admired them. Replacing "sneered" with "praised" flips the emotional tone completely. Using "scorned", "mocked", or "despised" would all convey similar or stronger negativity, so they clearly are not antonyms.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option B, "Scorn", is almost a direct synonym for "sneer", as both involve contempt. Option C, "Mock", also means to ridicule, again extremely close in sense. Option D, "Despise", is a stronger form of dislike and disrespect. None of these reverses the negative attitude of "sneer"; they all reinforce it.

Common Pitfalls:
Because several options are negative, some candidates may get confused and think in terms of degrees of negativity rather than opposites. It is important in antonym questions to look for a word that changes the direction of the emotion from negative to positive, not just one that has a different nuance. Recognising that "praise" is a clear positive reaction helps you avoid this trap.

Final Answer:
The antonym of "Sneer" is Praise.