Understanding the Word Prone

The question asks us to identify the statements where the word "prone" is used correctly. To answer this, we need to understand the different meanings and common usage of the word "prone" in English. It is often confused with similar-sounding words, so clarity in its definition is key.

Meanings of Prone

The word prone primarily has two main meanings or uses:

• Lying flat, face downwards: This refers to a physical position. For example, if someone is lying prone, they are lying flat on their stomach.
• Having a tendency or likelihood: When used with "to" (as in "prone to"), it means being likely to suffer from something, or to do or experience something undesirable. For example, if someone is prone to accidents, they tend to have accidents frequently.

Analyzing Each Statement

Let's carefully examine each given statement to determine if the word "prone" is used correctly according to its established definitions:

• Statement (i): "A prone is a dried plum."

  This statement is incorrect. A dried plum is actually called a prune, which is spelled P-R-U-N-E. The word "prone" does not refer to any type of fruit, dried or otherwise. This statement demonstrates a common confusion between "prone" and "prune."

• Statement (ii): "He was lying prone on the floor."

  This statement is correct. Here, "prone" is used to describe a physical position, specifically lying flat, usually face downwards. This usage perfectly aligns with one of the primary definitions of the word "prone."

• Statement (iii): "People who eat a lot of fat are prone to heart disease."

  This statement is correct. In this context, "prone to" indicates a tendency or likelihood. It means that people who consume a large amount of fat are more likely to develop heart disease. This usage is accurate and reflects the second main definition of "prone," signifying susceptibility or a tendency towards something undesirable.

Identifying Correct Prone Usage

Based on our detailed analysis of each statement:

• Statement (i) uses "prone" incorrectly, confusing it with "prune."
• Statement (ii) uses "prone" correctly to describe a lying position.
• Statement (iii) uses "prone to" correctly to describe a tendency or susceptibility.

Therefore, the statements where the word "prone" is used correctly are statements (ii) and (iii) only.