Question

Before we went hiking, we spent many hours _____ over the maps.

• A. pouring
• B. sitting
• C. poring
• D. pouting

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

To solve this question, we need to determine the most contextually correct word to complete the sentence: "Before we went hiking, we spent many hours _____ over the maps."

1. Meaning of the Sentence: The sentence suggests that before going hiking, significant time was spent examining or reviewing maps carefully.
2. Options Analysis:
   • Pouring: This word means to flow or cause to flow in a steady stream, typically a liquid (e.g., pouring water). This does not logically fit the context of map examination.
   • Sitting: This simply means being in a seated position. It does not imply any action related to examining maps closely.
   • Poring: To pore over something means to examine or read it with great care. This is the precise action described, as it involves closely studying the maps.
   • Pouting: This means to push one's lips or one's lower lip forward as an expression of petulant annoyance or to position one's lips in an outward projection. It is not related to examining maps.
3. Correct Answer: The word poring is the correct choice as it means to study or examine something intently, fitting the context of spending many hours examining maps.

The correct completion of the sentence is:

Before we went hiking, we spent many hours poring over the maps.

In this sentence, "poring" is the appropriate word that describes the action of closely examining the maps before hiking. The other options do not make logical sense in this context.