To 'expunge' something refers to what action?

The term 'expunge' specifically means to erase or obliterate something completely, making it as if it never existed. This word is often used in legal contexts, such as when a record is removed from official databases or when a person's criminal record is cleared, thus removing any trace of it. The action of expunging focuses on the idea of thorough removal or deletion, ensuring no remnants remain. This definition captures the essence of what it means to expunge, aligning perfectly with the correct answer.

The other options, while they may describe various actions, do not accurately convey the meaning of erasing or obliterating. Achieving an accomplishment has a positive connotation of success, scattering refers to distribution rather than removal, and moving closer to a point implies proximity rather than deletion. Therefore, the choice that best aligns with the definition of 'expunge' is indeed to erase or obliterate.