In the following question, out of the four alternatives, select the word which is most similar in meaning to the given word: Depict.

Introduction / Context:
This synonym question focuses on the verb depict, which is widely used in literature, art criticism and everyday descriptions. To answer correctly, you should understand what it means to depict something and identify the option that expresses a similar idea of showing, describing or representing.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Target word: Depict.
• Options: Conceal, Distort, Characterize, Suppress.
• Typical usage: “The painting depicts a village scene” or “The novel depicts social injustice.”
• We assume depict means to represent or show in words, pictures or other forms.

Concept / Approach:
To depict is to represent or describe something in a picture, story or other medium. Characterize means to describe the distinctive qualities or features of someone or something, often giving a clear picture of its nature. Both verbs share the idea of presenting, outlining or making something visible to the mind. The other options—conceal, distort and suppress—refer to hiding, twisting or holding back information, which are opposite or different in sense from depict.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Recall that depict involves showing or representing something, as in a drawing or description.Look for a word among the options that also refers to describing or representing key qualities.Characterize means to describe the main qualities or features of a person, place or thing.Conceal means hide, distort means twist out of shape or misrepresent, and suppress means hold back or prevent from being seen.Therefore, Characterize is the word whose meaning is closest to Depict.

Verification / Alternative check:
Consider example sentences: “The author depicts the hero as brave and compassionate” can be rephrased as “The author characterizes the hero as brave and compassionate.” The meaning remains essentially the same: the author shows or describes the hero's character. If we use conceal, distort or suppress, we change the meaning: the author would be hiding, twisting or blocking information rather than presenting it clearly.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Conceal is the opposite of depict because it means to hide something so that others do not see or know it. Distort means to change the shape or meaning of something in a misleading way, which conflicts with the neutral or accurate representation implied by depict. Suppress means to prevent information or feelings from being expressed. None of these options match the idea of clear representation or description.

Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes confuse depict with any action involving information, including hiding or altering it. However, depict always points to showing and describing, not hiding or twisting. When you see depict in exam questions, think of pictures, descriptions and portrayals. Characterize is the best match in this set because it focuses on describing essential qualities and presenting a clear mental image of the subject.

Final Answer:
The word similar in meaning to “Depict” is Characterize.