Which one of the following words cannot be used both as a noun and as a verb ?

Question

Accepted Answer

Option 4, "Devote," is the correct answer because it cannot be used both as a noun and as a verb. Let's explore why this is the case and why the other options can be used as both nouns and verbs.

1. **Devote (Option 4)**:
   - **Verb**: "Devote" is commonly used as a verb, meaning to give all or a large part of one's time or resources to a person, activity, or cause. For example, "She decided to devote her life to helping others."
   - **Noun**: "Devote" does not function as a noun in English. There is no common usage where "devote" acts as a noun, which is why this option is correct.

2. **Hope (Option 1)**:
   - **Noun**: "Hope" can be used as a noun, referring to a feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen. For example, "There is hope for a better future."
   - **Verb**: It can also be used as a verb, meaning to want something to happen or be the case. For example, "I hope you have a great day."

3. **Surprise (Option 2)**:
   - **Noun**: "Surprise" can be used as a noun, referring to an unexpected or astonishing event, fact, or thing. For example, "The party was a complete surprise."
   - **Verb**: It can also be used as a verb, meaning to cause someone to feel mild astonishment or shock. For example, "The news will surprise everyone."

4. **Demand (Option 3)**:
   - **Noun**: "Demand" can be used as a noun, referring to an insistent and peremptory request, made as if by right. For example, "There is a high demand for skilled workers."
   - **Verb**: It can also be used as a verb, meaning to ask for something forcefully, in a way that shows that refusal is not expected. For example, "They demand an explanation."

In summary, "Devote" is the only word among the options that cannot be used as both a noun and a verb, which makes Option 4 the correct answer.