To "eschew" something means to:

The correct answer, which is to "avoid and stay away from it deliberately," accurately captures the essence of the verb "eschew." When someone eschews something, they consciously choose to refrain from it, often due to personal beliefs, values, or a desire to take a moral stance. For example, a person may eschew unhealthy foods in favor of a healthier diet, making a deliberate choice to avoid those foods for their well-being.

This term conveys a sense of intentionality; it is not simply a matter of avoiding something by chance or circumstance. Rather, to eschew is to make a thoughtful decision to stay away from specific things, whether they are habits, practices, or behaviors.

In contrast, the other options imply actions or attitudes that don't align with the meaning of "eschew." Embracing and adopting something suggests a welcoming approach, while criticizing and belittling it involves negative commentary rather than avoidance. Discussing openly and frequently would entail engagement with the subject, which is the opposite of steering clear of it.