Select the sentence containing the homonym of the highlighted word:
The monk read aloud from a leather-bound gradual.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The correct answer is option 3, i.e., the scientist observed a gradual increase in acidity.
Concept: Homonym
Hindi Meaning:
Gradual = क्रमिक / धीरे-धीरे होने वाला
Gradual (noun) = धार्मिक भजनों की पुस्तक
Explanation:
In the given sentence, “gradual” is used as a noun referring to a religious liturgical book containing chants.
In option (3), “gradual” is used as an adjective meaning slow or progressive increase. The pronunciation is the same, but the meanings are different, making it a homonym in this context.
Why Other Options Are Incorrect:
Options (1), (2), and (4) use “gradual” in the same religious-book sense as the original sentence.
Final Answer:
“The scientist observed a gradual increase in acidity.”