What action does "suppress" describe?

The term "suppress" specifically refers to the act of stopping or restraining an action, expression, or phenomenon, often through force or authority. This definition is rooted in contexts such as suppressing a rebellion, suppressing emotions, or suppressing information. In each of these cases, the action suggests a deliberate and forceful intervention to prevent something from occurring or to curtail its expression.

In contrast, the other options describe actions that are contrary in nature. Encouraging growth and allowing to flourish both imply promotion and support, which is the opposite of suppressing something. Similarly, promoting freedom indicates an enabling action rather than one of restraint. Therefore, stopping by force accurately encapsulates the meaning of "suppress."