Question

Choose the word which means the following.
Present opposing arguments or evidence
(A) Criticize
(B) Rebuff
(C) Reprimand
(D) Rebut

Answer 1

Hint: We need to represent the given phrase by a single word. The single word must have a meaning equivalent to that of the given phrase. Since we are given multiple terms that could represent the given meaning, we must be familiar with the meaning of each term present in each option.

Complete answer:
The correct way to approach this question is by understanding the meaning of each option individually. We must do this so that we can compare the given phrase with the meaning of each term in the options.
The given phrase says “Present opposing arguments or evidence”, this means to give proper reasons that can help us to go against another given statement or provide factual details that can disagree with some other statements.

After comparing the phrase with the definitions of each term in the options, we can easily find which definition matches the meaning of the given phrase. Once the match is made, the option matching the meaning of the phrase will be our required answer.

Let us take a look at each option with care:
Option (A) Criticize is an incorrect answer. The word 'criticize' is used to express disapproval of the flaws of 'somebody' or 'something'. Criticism is a way to frame and convey an opinion about something. This is not the same meaning as the given phrase so we can reject this option.
Option (B) Rebuff is an incorrect answer. The definition of 'rebuff' is to deny (someone or something) abruptly or ungraciously. Denial is not the same as opposing arguments so this option can be rejected.
Option (C) Reprimand is an incorrect answer. The term 'reprimand' refers to a formal statement of rejection. The given phrase which states ‘opposing arguments’ does not have the same meaning as formal rejection or disapproval, hence this option can be rejected as well.
Option (D) Rebut is the correct answer. The term 'rebut' means to provide proof or indicate that the evidence under consideration is incorrect. Opposing arguments or evidence means the same as proving that the evidence is incorrect, hence this option is correct.

Therefore the correct answer is option (D) i.e, Rebut.

Note: In this phrase ‘Present opposing arguments or evidence’ the other synonyms are controverted, refute, contradict, oppose. And antonyms that have the opposite meaning for the phrase of the word can be allowed, approve, permit and prove.