The question asks to identify the missing word in Group-II based on an analogy with Group-I. Both groups list words in decreasing order of intensity.

Understanding the Word Intensity Analogy

Group-I shows a sequence of words with decreasing negative intensity:

• Abuse $\rightarrow$ Insult $\rightarrow$ Ridicule

Here, 'Abuse' is the most intense, followed by 'Insult', and then 'Ridicule' being the least intense of the three.

Group-II presents a similar sequence but with positive words, also in decreasing order of intensity:

• _________ $\rightarrow$ Praise $\rightarrow$ Appreciate

We need to find a word that is more intense than 'Praise' to fit the first position, as 'Praise' is more intense than 'Appreciate'.

Evaluating Options for Group-II

Let's analyze the options provided in relation to 'Praise' and 'Appreciate':

• Extol: Means to praise enthusiastically. This is a very strong form of praise, suggesting higher intensity than 'Praise'.
• Prize: Means to consider highly valuable. While positive, it focuses on value rather than direct expression of praise.
• Appropriate: Means suitable or fitting. This word does not relate to the intensity of positive expression.
• Espouse: Means to adopt or support a cause or belief. This relates to support, not the intensity of praise.

Identifying the Missing Word

Comparing the options, Extol fits the pattern best. It represents a higher intensity of positive expression compared to 'Praise', maintaining the decreasing order:

• Extol (most intense positive expression)
• Praise (strong positive expression)
• Appreciate (recognizing worth, less intense than praise)

Therefore, the sequence Extol $\rightarrow$ Praise $\rightarrow$ Appreciate accurately reflects decreasing intensity.