Which of the following actions is associated with a formal ceremony?

The action associated with a formal ceremony is to inaugurate. Inauguration typically refers to the official ceremony marking the beginning of a significant new role, event, or term, particularly in the context of elected officials or major public positions. This term implies a level of formality, protocol, and celebration, which aligns perfectly with the idea of a formal ceremony.

The other options represent actions that do not inherently have this ceremonial significance. To emulate suggests copying or imitating someone, which can happen in various contexts and does not specifically relate to formal ceremonies. To mitigate refers to making something less severe, serious, or painful, a concept mostly connected with problem-solving rather than ceremonial events. Finally, to rebuff means to reject someone or something in a blunt or abrupt manner, which is typically considered a more informal or personal action rather than one associated with ceremonial activities.