It is good for a child to be unduly inquisitive.

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for the word nearest in meaning to the underlined word, which is "inquisitive" in the sentence "It is good for a child to be unduly inquisitive."

Step 2: Explain the concept "Inquisitive" is an adjective meaning eager to learn or know things, always asking questions. The adverb "unduly" means excessively. Questions on synonyms depend on the meaning of the word in context, so we match the core meaning of the word.

Step 3: Evaluate the options

• A. naughty: means badly behaved. Inquisitive does not mean this.
• B. playful: means fond of fun and games. This is not about asking questions or wanting to know things.
• C. curious: means eager to know or learn something. This matches "inquisitive" almost exactly.
• D. troublesome: means causing difficulty. Inquisitive people may sometimes cause trouble, but that is not the meaning of the word.

Step 4: Answer The nearest in meaning to "inquisitive" is **C.

A small note on the sentence: As written, "It is good for a child to be unduly inquisitive" reads a little oddly, because "unduly" means excessively, and being excessively inquisitive is not usually considered good. The original question probably said "not good" or was worded differently. This does not change the answer, since the question only asks about the meaning of "inquisitive."

Exam tip: In synonym questions, ignore the sentence's tone and first define the underlined word in your own words. Then pick the option closest to that definition. Remember: inquisitive = curious = eager to find things out. A related word is "nosy", which is inquisitive in a negative, intrusive way.