Understanding Homonyms: Antic vs Antique

The question asks us to select the correct homonym to fill in the blank in the sentence: "Yesterday his behaviour with the guests was _______." Homonyms are words that sound the same but have different meanings and spellings. We need to choose the word that accurately describes behaviour in this context.

Examining the Homonym Options

Let's explore the meanings of the key options provided:

• antique: This term refers to an object that is old and often valuable. It's typically used to describe furniture, jewellery, or other items possessing historical or collectible value. For instance, "She inherited an antique grandfather clock." It does not relate to behaviour.
• antic: This word describes behaviour that is playful, funny, or bizarre. It can be used as an adjective to describe actions or as a noun referring to a playful leap or prank. For example, "The comedian's antic movements amused the audience."

Contextual Application in the Sentence

The sentence describes someone's behaviour with guests. We need a word that fits this description.

• If we use antique, the sentence would imply the behaviour was old or valuable like an object, which doesn't make logical sense.
• If we use antic, the sentence means the behaviour was playful, funny, or perhaps eccentric, which is a very suitable way to describe human interaction.

Therefore, the word antic is the appropriate choice to describe the behaviour mentioned.

Conclusion

The correct homonym to complete the sentence is antic, as it accurately describes playful or funny behaviour.

The completed sentence reads: "Yesterday his behaviour with the guests was antic."