Select the correct meaning of the underlined phrasal verbs : I cannot make out the meaning of this verse.

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct meaning of the underlined phrasal verb "make out" in the sentence "I cannot make out the meaning of this verse" is **understand**. Here's why Option 2 is correct: * **"Make out"** as a phrasal verb often means to discern, perceive, or understand something, especially when it is not clear or obvious. In the given sentence, the speaker is saying they are unable to grasp or comprehend the meaning of the verse. Therefore, "understand" is the most accurate synonym in this context. Here's why the other options are incorrect: * **Option 1: discovery** - "Discovery" implies finding something new or previously unknown. While understanding something might *lead* to a discovery, the act of "making out" something is about comprehension, not necessarily finding something new. The sentence focuses on the inability to grasp an existing meaning, not uncovering a hidden one. * **Option 3: reading** - "Reading" refers to the act of looking at and interpreting written words. While you need to read the verse to try and understand it, "make out" refers to the *result* of that reading (or lack thereof), i.e., whether you can understand it. The sentence isn't about the act of reading, but about the inability to comprehend the meaning after reading. * **Option 4: understanding** - While "understanding" is closely related, it's not the correct *meaning* to replace the phrasal verb. The phrasal verb "make out" is being defined, and "understand" is the definition. Using "understanding" would be circular and not provide a distinct meaning for the phrasal verb. Option 2, "understand," is the verb form that accurately reflects the meaning of "make out" in this context.