Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This question asks for the antonym of the word LAVISH, which can be a verb or an adjective. The options are verbs, so we should consider the verb form.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Definition of LAVISH (v.): To give something in generous or extravagant quantities; to bestow something bountifully.
Analyzing the Options:
- (A) insist: To demand forcefully. Unrelated.
- (B) criticize: To indicate the faults of. Unrelated.
- (C) undermine: To weaken. Unrelated.
- (D) stint: To be frugal; to supply an ungenerous or inadequate amount of something. For example, "to stint on praise." This is the direct opposite of giving generously or lavishly.
- (E) waste: To use carelessly or to no purpose. While lavishing can sometimes be wasteful, "waste" is not its direct antonym.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The direct antonym for LAVISH (to give generously) is STINT (to give ungenerously).