Choose the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the word printed in italic bold in the sentence.
Public opinion will pillory these agents of crime.
A. criticize
B. subserve
C. recall
D. declare

Hint: The word in italics given in the above sentence is ‘pillory’ which is a wooden instrument consisting of holes for head and hands to imprison offenders. It also means to publicly ridicule or attack.
Example: He was arrested and made to stand in the pillory to make him subject to public humiliation.

Complete step by step answer:
Let’s discuss the given options and find the correct answer.

A. criticize: The word ‘criticize’ means to find fault in someone or something, to pass negative judgement of someone or something.
Example: Generally people with less understanding always criticize someone superior to them.

B. subserve: The word ‘Subserve’ means to be useful or helpful to promote something. It also refers to light exercise.
Example: The party subserves him as it considers him to be a potential candidate for the upcoming elections.

C. recall: The word ‘recall’ means to remember something from the past, to revisit in memory. It also means to ask someone to return something.
Example: He couldn’t recall the amount, I owed him.

D. declare: The word ‘declare’ means to proclaim, to make something known on a public and official platform. It also means to give information about your possessions.
Example: The team will soon declare its captain for the upcoming season.

So, the correct answer is “Option A”.

Note:
The word ‘pillory’ is best described by the word ‘criticize’ as they both mean to ridicule someone. Both the words are used to highlight the offensive act or shortcomings of someone or something.