Concept:The opposite of the underlined word is required to fill the gap correctly. The underlined word is "eulogised".
Explanation:The word "eulogised" means to praise someone highly or speak about them with great admiration.
The word most nearly opposite in meaning would express disapproval or negative criticism.
Among the options given, "criticised" means to point out faults or express disapproval, which directly opposes the idea of praising highly.
"Discouraged" means to lose confidence, and "appraised" means to assess the value of something, so neither is a true opposite.
"Denounced" is also negative, but it implies a strong, public condemnation rather than the general sense of expressing disapproval.
Therefore, "criticised" is the best fit for the gap as the most nearly opposite word.
Answer:B. criticised