Understanding the Word SQUASH and its Usage

The question asks us to identify which of the given sentences best express the meaning of the word "SQUASH". Let's look at the different ways the word "squash" can be used.

Meaning of SQUASH

The word SQUASH has several meanings, including:

• To press something so that it becomes flat or loses its shape, often because it is soft.
• To squeeze or crowd people or things into a small space.
• To suppress, put down, or prevent something from continuing (like feelings, rebellion, or ideas).
• To move by pressing or crushing.

Analyzing the Sentences

Now, let's examine each sentence provided:

Sentence A: "The spectators had to be squashed into the hall for want of space."

In this sentence, "squashed" is used to describe people being squeezed or crowded into a limited space. This aligns perfectly with the meaning of squeezing people or things into a small area. This is a common and correct use of the word.

Sentence B: "We are in no position to squash the simmering tensions between the two communities."

Here, "squash" means to suppress or put an end to something, in this case, the tensions. This usage fits the meaning of suppressing or preventing something from developing or continuing. This is also a valid and appropriate use of the word.

Sentence C: "He squashed his car into the tree."

This sentence attempts to describe a car hitting a tree, resulting in damage. While a collision might cause the car to be crushed or "squashed," saying someone "squashed their car into the tree" is not the most idiomatic or best way to describe this event. The act of hitting the tree causes the damage, and while the car might get squashed, the verb usage here is less common or precise compared to "crashed," "smashed," or saying the car "was squashed" by hitting the tree. It doesn't fit neatly into the typical meanings of deliberately crushing/flattening, crowding, or suppressing.

Conclusion

Based on the analysis, sentences A and B use the word "squash" in meanings that are common, clear, and best express typical uses of the word (crowding and suppressing). Sentence C uses the word in a less common and somewhat awkward manner to describe a collision.

Therefore, the sentences that best express the meaning of the word "squash" are A and B.