Choose from the options lettered A - E the one that is most nearly opposite in meaning to the underlined word…

Analyze the question The question asks for the word most nearly opposite in meaning to "relegated" (the underlined word). The blank in the sentence needs a word that contrasts with "relegated."

Explain the concept To relegate means to demote someone, move them to a lower rank, position, or status. (Think of a football team being "relegated" to a lower division.) So we need a word meaning the opposite: to move someone up in rank or position.

Step-by-step solution Sentence: "The same power that relegated him can still ………… him if he is repentant."

• The power demoted him, but if he repents, it can still promote him back.

Checking the options:

• A. uphold means to support or maintain a decision. It is not about rank, so it is not the opposite.
• B. humiliate means to embarrass or lower someone's dignity. It is similar to relegate, not opposite.
• C. escalate means to increase in intensity or scale. It is used for situations, not people's rank.
• D. elevate means to raise to a higher position. This is the direct opposite of relegate.
• E. defend means to protect. It does not relate to rank.

Answer: D (elevate)

Tip: In "opposite meaning" questions, first define the underlined word in your own simple terms (relegate = push down), then look for the option that means the reverse (push up). Also use the sentence's logic: "if he is repentant" signals a positive outcome, so the missing word must be a positive one like "elevate" or "promote."