Concept:The opposite of a word meaning harsh criticism is approval or praise.Explanation:The underlined word “castigated” means “severely criticized” or “scolded harshly.”To fill the gap correctly, we need a word that is most nearly opposite in meaning to “castigated.”The opposite of severe criticism is warm approval or praise.Among the options, “commended” means “praised” or “expressed approval of.”Therefore, “commended” is the correct opposite and fits the gap in the sentence.Answer:C. commended