Choose from the options lettered A- E the one that is nearest in meaning to the word underlined The man was…

Step 1: Analyze the question The underlined word is convalescing. We need the option closest in meaning to it in the sentence: "The man was convalescing at home after his discharge from the hospital."

Step 2: Explain the concept Convalesce means to gradually regain health and strength after an illness or medical treatment. The key idea is recovery over time.

Step 3: Test each option

• A. enjoying: This means taking pleasure in something. It says nothing about regaining health. ✗
• B. recuperating: This means recovering health or strength after illness. It is the closest synonym of convalescing. ✓
• C. rejuvenating: This means making something or someone look or feel young or fresh again. It is not about recovery from sickness. ✗
• D. relaxing: This means unwinding or becoming less tense. It is not the same as recovering from illness. ✗
• E. resting: A convalescing person may rest, but resting only describes an activity. It does not carry the idea of regaining health. It is a close distractor, but weaker than B. ✗

Step 4: Answer recuperating**.

Tip: In "nearest in meaning" questions, look for the word that matches the whole idea, not just something that happens alongside it. Resting often goes with convalescing, but only recuperating means the same thing: getting better after illness. You can also link convalesce with recover to remember it.