Understanding the Antonym of Redeem

The question asks us to find the most appropriate antonym for the word "redeem" as used in the sentence: "Is there any portal to redeem these coupons that I have collected from the store?"

In this context, "redeem" means to exchange a coupon or voucher for goods, services, or money. It implies making use of the coupon to gain something of value.

Analyzing the Options

Let's look at the meaning of each given option:

• forsake: This means to abandon or give up something or someone. While related to giving up, it doesn't directly represent the opposite action of using a coupon to gain value.
• deplore: This means to feel or express strong disapproval of something. This word is completely unrelated to the action of using or not using a coupon.
• forfeit: This means to lose or be deprived of something (like a right, privilege, or property) as a penalty or consequence. When you don't redeem a coupon before it expires, you often *forfeit* its value – you lose the opportunity to gain something from it. This is the opposite of redeeming it.
• embezzle: This means to steal or misappropriate money that one has been trusted with. This is a type of theft and is unrelated to using or not using coupons.

Identifying the Most Appropriate Antonym

Based on the analysis, "redeem" involves gaining value or obtaining something by using a coupon. Its opposite would be losing the right to use the coupon or losing the potential value it offers. The word that best fits this opposite meaning is "forfeit".

If you redeem a coupon, you get something. If you forfeit the coupon, you lose the chance to get something from it.

Revision Table: Antonyms Explained

Additional Information on Redeem and Forfeit

• The word "redeem" can have other meanings too, such as saving someone from sin (in a religious context) or compensating for faults or shortcomings.
• The word "forfeit" can also be used when someone loses a game or competition because they broke a rule or were unable to compete. For example, a team might *forfeit* a match.
• In financial contexts, "redeem" can refer to paying off a debt or exchanging bonds for cash. The opposite action might be defaulting on a loan or holding onto the bond.
• When dealing with coupons and vouchers, "redeem" and "forfeit" represent the core opposite actions: gaining value by using vs. losing value by not using or losing the right to use.