Which is the closest antonym for the word mitigate?A.augmentB.tabulateC.discernD.obviate

To find the closest antonym for the word "mitigate," we should first understand the meaning of the word. "Mitigate" means to make something less severe, serious, or painful. Thus, we need to identify which of the options presents a meaning that is opposite to this.

1. Option A: augment - This means to make something greater or larger, which is the opposite of lessening.

2. Option B: tabulate - This refers to the act of arranging data in a table; it does not share an antonymous relationship with "mitigate."

3. Option C: discern - This means to perceive or recognize something; it doesn't directly relate to mitigating or intensifying.

4. Option D: obviate - This means to remove a need or difficulty, which closely aligns with lessening the impact of something but is not an antonym.

Conclusion

The closest antonym for "mitigate" is A. augment, as it signifies increasing or making something more severe rather than lessening it.