Step 1: Understand the clues.
Each clue can pair with “ground”: underground, background, playground, work-ground (workground is less common but acceptable in association puzzles).
Step 2: Evaluate the options.
(A) Field – Only fits play.
(B) Farm – Does not fit well with all clues.
(C) Ground – Matches: underground, background, playground, work-ground.
(D) Players – Fits only play.
(E) Sports – Only loosely connects with play/work.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The word “ground” fits all four clues meaningfully.