Question

which of the following situations best illustrates the meaning of yearning?
taking a break from work to get a breath of fresh air outdoors
wishing for signs of springtime during the depths of an icy winter
celebrating an achievement that represents long and patient effort
picking up speed in a race when the finish line comes into view
question 5
what is the meaning of idly in the following sentence?
savannah gazed idly out the window, neglecting the book that lay open on her knee.
in a puzzled, confused way
in a concentrated, fierce way
in a concentrated, fierce way
in a cheerful, happy way

Explanation:

• For the first question: "Yearning" means a strong desire or longing. Wishing for signs of springtime during an icy winter shows a strong longing for something (spring) that is not currently present. Taking a break is just a short pause, celebrating an achievement is about recognition, and picking up speed in a race is a physical action related to the race.
• For the second question: The context shows Savannah is not focused on the book (neglecting it). "Idly" means in a lazy, unoccupied, or unfocused way. "In a lazy, unfocused way" fits as she is just gazing without real engagement. A puzzled/confused way would imply she is trying to figure something out, a concentrated/fierce way is the opposite of being idle, and a cheerful/happy way doesn't match the neglectful, unfocused action.

Answer:

• First question: "wishing for signs of springtime during the depths of an icy winter"
• Second question: "in a lazy, unfocused way"