Choose the correct meanings from the given options for the underlined words or phrases in the following sentences.
Being annoyed, she muttered something which nobody heard. (i) spoke in a low voice (ii) spoke slowly (iii) spoke angrily
(i) spoke in a low voice
At the new work place, Riya felt forlorn for a week. (i) upset and irritated (ii) angry and bitter (iii) sad and neglected
(iii) sad and neglected
When all his friends had gone, he was at a loss because he did not know what to do. (i) confused (ii) shocked (iii) lonely
(i) confused
When the little child saw her father, her eyes sparkled. (i) glowed dimly (ii) showed joy (iii) opened wide
(ii) showed joy
Explanation
(1) 'Muttered' means spoke in a low or indistinct voice, often in complaint. In the story, Velu 'muttered to himself' when looking at the cloudless sky. (2) 'Forlorn' means sad, lonely, and abandoned. The story describes 'The barren land looked forlorn' meaning it appeared sad and neglected. (3) 'At a loss' means confused or uncertain about what to do. In the story, both Velu and the weather office staff were 'at a loss' about the lack of rain. (4) 'Sparkled' in this context means showed joy or excitement. The story describes the old woman whose 'eyes sparkled when she smiled.'