Antonyms – Choose the word that is OPPOSITE in meaning to the highlighted word. Sentence: He abandoned his family. Target word: abandoned (verb sense)

Introduction / Context:
Abandon in this sentence means to desert or leave without support. Therefore the antonym must indicate continued responsibility, backing, or care. In social and legal discussions, abandonment contrasts with support and maintenance.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Target verb: abandon = desert, forsake.
• Object: his family.
• We need the opposite action toward the same object.

Concept / Approach:
The direct contrary of deserting one's family is supporting one's family, which entails remaining present and providing care or resources. Encourage, please, or save do not invert the duty dimension central to abandon.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Identify core meaning: abandonment equals withdrawal of presence and support.2) Choose the inverse: provide support and remain responsible.3) Among options, supported captures this best.4) Confirm that other verbs do not directly oppose desertion.

Verification / Alternative check:
Paraphrase: He did not abandon his family; he supported his family. The negation reads naturally and logically.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• encouraged: emotional boost, not the opposite of desertion.
• pleased: emotional effect, irrelevant to presence or duty.
• saved: rescue from danger is episodic, not the ongoing opposite of abandonment.

Common Pitfalls:
Choosing saved due to positive tone; however, saving can coexist with abandonment in different times, while support directly negates desertion.

Final Answer:
supported