What does it mean to acknowledge something openly and formally?

To acknowledge something openly and formally means to openly declare or admit to a certain fact, belief, or action. The term "avow" specifically captures this sense of making a formal declaration or admission. When someone avows something, they are not just hinting or subtly suggesting it; they are explicitly stating it as truth, often in a way that acknowledges their commitment to it.

In contrast, other terms in the choices refer to different nuances of communication. "Broach" means to introduce a topic for discussion, which does not necessarily imply a formal acknowledgment. "Apprise" means to inform or notify someone about something, focusing on the act of providing information rather than the formal acknowledgment of it. "Ascribe" refers to attributing a cause or source to something, which is unrelated to the notion of formal acknowledgment. This understanding highlights the specific nature of "avow" as it involves openly accepting or affirming a point or belief, fitting the requirement of the question perfectly.