* Praise: This is the most direct opposite, meaning to express approval or admiration.
* Encourage: This implies giving support and confidence, the opposite of discouraging or reprimanding.
* Reward: This means to give something valuable in return for good behavior, the opposite of punishment.
* Commend: This means to praise formally or officially, the opposite of criticizing.
* Approve: This means to find something acceptable or satisfactory, the opposite of disapproving.
* Support: This implies standing by someone or something, the opposite of criticizing or opposing.
The best antonym will depend on the specific situation and the intended meaning.