Question

(8) ...had king solomon been the janitor, with all his treasures piled up in the basement, jim would have pulled out his watch every time he passed, just to see him pluck at his beard from envy.

which phrase best states the meaning of \pluck at his beard\ as used in the excerpt?

• to be accepting
• to be annoyed
• to be amused
• to be approving

Explanation:

Analyze the context clues

The excerpt states that Jim would pull out his watch "just to see him pluck at his beard from envy." The phrase "from envy" directly links the action of plucking at the beard to a feeling of jealousy, resentment, or irritation at another's superior possession.

Evaluate the options

• "to be accepting" does not align with "envy."
• "to be annoyed" matches the physical manifestation of envy, frustration, or irritation.
• "to be amused" contradicts the negative connotation of "envy."
• "to be approving" is positive and does not fit "envy."

Determine the correct meaning

"Pluck at his beard" in this context of envy represents a gesture of vexation, irritation, or being annoyed.

Answer:

• to be accepting
• to be annoyed (Correct answer)
• to be amused
• to be approving