Select the meaning of the underlined word in this sentence: My grandmother used to tell me, 'Anything in excess can be a sin.'

Rationale

More than is needed.

In this context, "excess" refers to a quantity that surpasses what is necessary or desirable, implying that even beneficial things can become harmful if taken too far. The phrase conveys the idea that balance is essential, and that overindulgence or surplus can lead to negative consequences.

A (Creating a nuisance) YOUR ANSWER

While creating a nuisance can result from excess, the word itself specifically describes a condition of surplus, rather than the act of causing annoyance or disturbance. Therefore, this choice does not directly align with the meaning of "excess" in the given context.

B (More than is needed) CORRECT

The term "excess" in the sentence directly implies a state of being over and above what is required or desired. This choice accurately captures the intended meaning, as it highlights the concept of surpassing necessary limits, which can lead to negative outcomes.

C (Not allowed) YOUR ANSWER

"Not allowed" suggests prohibition, but "excess" refers to quantity rather than permission. The meaning of "excess" is quantitative, focusing on abundance rather than restriction or prohibition, making this choice unrelated to the intended usage.

D (Desirable) YOUR ANSWER

Desirable refers to something wanted or considered beneficial. However, "excess" in the sentence implies a negative consequence of having too much, contrary to the positive connotation of desirability. Hence, this option does not fit the context.

Conclusion

In the given sentence, "excess" is used to convey the idea of having more than what is necessary, emphasizing the potential drawbacks of overabundance. This understanding is crucial in illustrating the broader message that moderation is key to avoiding negative consequences. Each incorrect choice fails to capture this nuance, either misinterpreting the idea of excess or diverging from the contextual meaning entirely.

Select the meaning of the underlined word in this sentence: My grandmother used to tell me, 'Anything in excess can be a sin.'

More than is needed.

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