Correct Answer: Shorten

Solution : The correct option will be the third option.

Abridge: It means to shorten or condense without losing the core content or meaning.

Shorten: It means to make something shorter in length or duration. This is the closest synonym to abridge, as it involves reducing the size or length of something while retaining essential elements.

The meanings of the other options are:

Expand: It means to increase in size or volume, oppositely meaning to abridge.

Earmark: It means to designate or set aside for a particular purpose; it is not synonymous with abridge.

Increase: To make something larger or greater, opposite in meaning to abridge.

Therefore, the correct answer will be shorten.