Synonym selection (vocabulary – meaning of “embezzle”): Choose the option that best expresses the meaning of the given word. Target verb: EMBEZZLE Instruction: Select the closest synonym used for dishonest conversion of entrusted funds.

Given data

• Verb: ‘‘embezzle’’ — theft or fraudulent conversion of property entrusted to one’s care (esp. funds).

Meaning
‘‘Embezzle’’ ≈ to misappropriate money/property placed in one’s trust.

Elimination
Misappropriate — best synonym in legal/financial context. ✅Consecrate — make sacred; unrelated. ❌Remunerate — pay/compensate; unrelated. ❌Expropriate — take property (often by the state) for public use; not necessarily fraudulent. ❌

Usage
‘‘The treasurer was charged with embezzling (misappropriating) club funds.’’

Final Answer
Misappropriate