Question

Match the blanks in List-I with appropriate Homonyms in List-II

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• (A) - (IV), (B) - (III), (C) - (I), (D) - (II)
• (A) - (III), (B) - (IV), (C) - (II), (D) - (I)
• (A) - (II), (B) - (III), (C) - (I), (D) - (IV)
• (A) - (III), (B) - (IV), (C) - (I), (D) - (II)

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

(A) "Bough" refers to a branch of a tree and is a homonym of "Bow," which can mean to bend forward or used in archery. Hence, (A) matches with (III).

(B) "Way" means a method or manner of doing something, and its homonym is "Weigh," referring to the measure of weight. Hence, (B) matches with (IV).

(C) "Buy" refers to purchasing something, and its homonym is "By," which is a preposition. Hence, (C) matches with (II).

(D) "Ate" is the past tense of eat, and its homonym is "Eight," which is the number 8. Hence, (D) matches with (I).

Thus, the correct answer is (A) - (III), (B) - (IV), (C) - (II), (D) - (I).

Answer 2

Correct Matches of Confused Words 

Sentences and Word Use

1. (A) We waited with bated breath for the winner to be announced.
2. (B) Moving quietly into position, she baited the trap and waited.
3. (C) You ought to make a few discreet enquiries before you sign anything.
4. (D) Organisms can be divided into discrete categories.

Explanation of Correct Matches

• (A) – "Bated" breath is correct. "Bated" means in great suspense. ✔️
• (B) – "Baited" is correct in the context of setting a trap with bait. ✔️
• (C) – "Discreet" means careful or circumspect in one's conduct or speech. ✔️
• (D) – "Discrete" means distinct or separate. ✔️

Common Mistakes Clarified

• "Bated" is often confused with "baited" due to their similar pronunciation, but they mean very different things.

• "Discreet" (careful, private) and "discrete" (separate, individual) are homophones but have distinct meanings.

Summary

• Bated breath = holding breath in suspense
• Baited trap = lure used to catch something
• Discreet enquiries = cautious or private investigation
• Discrete categories = clearly separated groups