English Vocabulary — Choose the closest meaning (contextual synonym). Sentence: Japan has been very much eulogised in this book.

Introduction / Context:
“Eulogise” (British spelling; American: eulogize) means to praise highly, often in a formal or elaborate manner. Literary reviews and histories sometimes note that a work “eulogises” a person, nation, or institution when the tone is strongly laudatory. This question asks you to pick the nearest synonym that fits the context of a book’s tone toward Japan.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Key verb: eulogised = praised highly.
• Context: an author’s treatment of a subject in a book.
• Options: appreciated, praised, approved, applauded.

Concept / Approach:
Although “appreciated” and “applauded” are positive, “praised” is the direct core meaning of “eulogised.” “Approved” signals agreement rather than laudation. “Applauded” implies applause or general approval but lacks the formal, evaluative nuance of eulogy. Hence, “praised” is the best one-word replacement.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
In funeral or encomiastic contexts, “eulogy” = formal praise. In broader literary commentary, “eulogise” remains “to praise,” confirming the selection.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• appreciated: Means valued; not necessarily high praise.
• approved: Signals agreement, not laudation.
• applauded: Applause/approval; lacks the evaluative depth of “praise.”

Common Pitfalls:
Over-weighting emotional enthusiasm (“applauded”) over evaluative praise. “Eulogised” is most safely paraphrased by “praised.”

Final Answer:
praised