Question

using context to determine meaning
hamlet: the air bites shrewdly; it is very cold.
horatio: it is a nipping and an eager air.
hamlet: what hour now?

• hamlet,

william shakespeare
based on the context, what is the best definition of shrewdly as it is used in these lines?
o thoughtfully
o quickly
o cleverly
o sharply

Explanation:

In the context, Hamlet says "The air bites shrewdly; it is very cold." The word "bites" implies a sharp, intense sensation. "Thoughtfully" and "cleverly" don't fit the description of cold air. "Quickly" also doesn't convey the sharpness of the cold. "Sharply" matches the idea of the air having a biting, sharp quality.

Answer:

sharply