Topic: Synonyms,

Best Answer Explained in Below-:

The word "appal" means to shock or greatly dismay someone. It carries a connotation of intense emotional distress or horror in response to something unexpected or troubling. Among the given options, "dismay" (option C) is the most synonymous with "appal" because it also conveys a sense of being disturbed or emotionally unsettled by something surprising or alarming.

On the other hand, let’s consider the other options:

- **Deceive (A)** refers to causing someone to believe something that is not true, which does not convey the same emotional impact as "appal."

- **Confuse (B)** involves causing someone to be bewildered or unclear, but again, it lacks the strong emotional distress that defines "appal."

- **Solicit (D)** means to ask for or try to obtain something, which is unrelated to the feelings of shock or dismay.

Thus, "dismay" rightly captures the essence of "appal," as both words reflect a reaction to distressing situations. Therefore, option C is the correct choice.