Question

This child is very .......................... to me.

• A. deer
• B. dear
• C. dare
• D. dearer

Hint:

Homophones are a common source of confusion. Always consider the context of the sentence to choose the correct word. Here, the context is affection, which points directly to 'dear'.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This question tests vocabulary and the ability to distinguish between homophones (words that sound alike but have different meanings and spellings).
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The sentence expresses affection or value for a child.
- (A) deer: This is a noun referring to a hoofed grazing animal. It does not fit the context.
- (B) dear: This is an adjective meaning regarded with deep affection; beloved. The sentence "This child is very dear to me" means the child is very precious to me. This fits perfectly.
- (C) dare: This is a verb meaning to have the courage to do something. It does not fit.
- (D) dearer: This is the comparative form of 'dear' (e.g., "This child is dearer to me than that one"). The adverb 'very' requires the base adjective 'dear', not the comparative form.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The word 'dear' correctly conveys the meaning of affection and fits grammatically in the sentence. Therefore, option (B) is correct.