From the given options, select the most appropriate word to fill in the blank in the given sentence:-
He gazed _____ at his beautiful parental home in the valley, his thoughts drifting to a memorable past.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → yearningly
Yearningly (Adverb): In a way that expresses intense longing, especially for something lost or far away. Since his thoughts were drifting to a memorable past associated with the parental home, he is likely gazing at it with a feeling of deep desire or nostalgia, making yearningly the most fitting choice.
Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:
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Zestfully: With great enthusiasm and energy (suggests excitement for the future, not reflection on the past).
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Yieldingly: In a way that is submissive or compliant (unrelated to gazing or memory).
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Woefully: In a manner expressing sorrow or misery