Introduction / Context:
"Abhor" is a strong verb meaning to regard with disgust or hatred. The antonym should therefore be a strong positive of esteem or approval, not merely neutrality or mild acceptance. This distinction separates true opposites from weak distractors.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Target verb: abhor = hate or detest intensely.
- We must find a verb that reverses the evaluative polarity to strong approval.
- Context: opinions about ideas.
Concept / Approach:
The direct antonym of a strong negative attitude is a strong positive attitude. "Admire" fits: to regard with respect and approval. Verbs like "tolerate," "consider," or "ponder" describe neutral cognitive stances; "accept" is mild approval/consent, not the opposite of loathing.
Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Calibrate intensity: abhor = strong dislike.2) Seek a strong positive counterpart.3) "Admire" provides the direct evaluative inverse.4) Eliminate neutral verbs and weak positives.
Verification / Alternative check:
Swap in the sentence: "I admire the ideas he sometimes expresses" is the natural opposite statement to "I abhor …".
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
tolerate: Endure without strong approval; far weaker than an antonym.ponder: Think about; neutral.consider: Weigh/reflect; neutral.accept: Agree to; not a strong positive valuation.
Common Pitfalls:
Equating a lack of hatred with admiration. True antonyms should mirror intensity as well as polarity.
Final Answer:
admire
Discussion & Comments