English Vocabulary — Antonyms Choose the word that is OPPOSITE in meaning to the highlighted verb in the sentence below. Sentence: I abhor the ideas he sometimes expresses. Target word: abhor

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