I hope the Principal would be gracious enough to forgive us.

Analyze the question: The underlined word is "gracious" in the sentence: "I hope the Principal would be gracious enough to forgive us." We need the word closest in meaning in this context.

Explain the concept: "Gracious" has a few shades of meaning:

• Courteous or polite in manner
• Kind and warm
• Showing mercy, compassion, or kindness, especially from a position of authority

The meaning depends on the context. Here, the students are hoping to be forgiven, so the sentence is about showing mercy.

Step-by-step solution:

1. The key phrase is "gracious enough to forgive us". Forgiveness is an act of leniency.
2. Check each option: • A. cordial means warm and friendly. It describes a greeting or manner, not forgiveness. • B. polite means well-mannered. A principal can be polite without forgiving anyone. • C. merciful means willing to pardon or show compassion. It fits "forgive" directly. • D. gentle means soft or mild in manner. It does not imply forgiveness.
3. "Merciful" fits best because the sentence is about pardoning an offence.

Correct answer: C. merciful

Exam tip: In "nearest in meaning" questions, always look at the words surrounding the target word. Here, "forgive" signals the sense of mercy. Many words have more than one meaning, so the context decides which one is tested.