choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word as it is used in the sentence. I hope the Principal would be gracious en...

choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word as it is used in the sentence.

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

Answer Details

The word "gracious" in this context means "merciful". In the sentence, the speaker is hoping that the Principal will forgive them for something they have done wrong. The word "gracious" is used to suggest that the Principal's forgiveness would be an act of kindness and mercy, rather than something that is strictly required or expected. The other options - "cordial", "polite", and "gentle" - are all related to being friendly or courteous, but they do not convey the sense of mercy or forgiveness that is implied by the word "gracious" in this context. Therefore, the most appropriate option that is nearest in meaning to "gracious" in this sentence is "merciful".