Q.3 Choose the statement(s) where the underlined word is used correctly:
(i) A prone is a dried plum.
(ii) He was lying prone on the floor.
(iii) People who eat a lot of fat are prone to heart disease.
(A) (i) and (iii) only (B) (iii) only (C) (i) and (ii) only (D) (ii) and (iii) only
Solving the Question: Correct Usage of “Prune” vs. “Prone”
This question tests the precise meanings and spellings of two similar-sounding words: prune (a dried plum) and prone (lying face down or having a tendency). Let’s break it down by analyzing each statement step-by-step, then evaluate the options.
Statement (i): “A prone is a dried plum.”
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Incorrect. The word for a dried plum is prune, not “prone.” “Prone” has no connection to fruit. This is a common spelling error—prune derives from Latin prunum (plum), while prone comes from Latin pronus (leaning forward).
Statement (ii): “He was lying prone on the floor.”
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Correct. “Prone” means lying flat with the face downward (opposite of “supine,” which is face up). This usage fits perfectly in describing body position, e.g., in medical or anatomical contexts.
Statement (iii): “People who eat a lot of fat are prone to heart disease.”
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Correct. Here, “prone” means predisposed or inclined toward something (a tendency or susceptibility). This is a standard idiomatic use, as in “prone to errors.”
Evaluating the Options
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(A) (i) and (iii) only: Wrong—(i) uses “prone” incorrectly.
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(B) (iii) only: Wrong—ignores the correct use in (ii).
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(C) (i) and (ii) only: Wrong—(i) is incorrect.
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(D) (ii) and (iii) only: Correct—both (ii) and (iii) use “prone” properly.
Final Answer: (D) (ii) and (iii) only
Introduction to Prune vs Prone
Confused between prune and prone? These homophones trip up many English learners, especially in sentences like “A prone is a dried plum” or “lying prone on the floor.” Understanding prune vs prone correct usage prevents errors in writing, exams, and daily communication. This guide explains definitions, examples, and solves a key MCQ on prone to heart disease and more—perfect for grammar quizzes and ESL practice.
What is a Prune? Definition and Examples
A prune is specifically a dried plum, packed with fiber and often used in cooking or as a snack.
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Correct sentence: “A prune is a dried plum.”
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Fun fact: Prunes help digestion, but never call them “prone”—that’s a spelling mistake!
Using “prone” here (as in option i of the question) is wrong and changes the meaning entirely.
Prone Meaning: Two Key Uses with Examples
Prone has two main senses—both unrelated to fruit:
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Physical position: Lying face down.
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Example: “He was lying prone on the floor.” (Correct, as in statement ii—think yoga’s “prone pose.”)
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Tendency or susceptibility: Likely to experience something negative.
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Example: “People who eat a lot of fat are prone to heart disease.” (Correct, statement iii—common in health warnings.)
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| Word | Meaning | Correct Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Prune | Dried plum | “Eat a prune daily for better health.” |
| Prone | Lying face down | “The patient lay prone during the exam.” |
| Prone | Inclined to (tendency) | “Kids are prone to colds in winter.” |
Common Mistakes: Prune vs Prone in Sentences
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Wrong: “A prone is a dried plum.” (Should be prune.)
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Wrong: “She is prone on the bed.” (Use “lying prone” for clarity.)
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Pro tip: Mnemonic—PRone = face PRessed down; PRUne = shriveled fruit.
Solved MCQ: Choose Where “Prone” is Used Correctly
In the question:
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(i) Wrong (needs “prune”).
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(ii) Correct (position).
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(iii) Correct (tendency).
Answer: (D) (ii) and (iii) only.
This highlights why mastering prune vs prone matters for exams like IELTS, GRE, or school tests.
Tips to Avoid Prune vs Prone Confusion
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Check spelling: Fruit = prune; position/tendency = prone.
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Context clues: Food? Prune. Body or risk? Prone.
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Practice: Rewrite “He is prone to accidents” or describe “lying prone.”
Boost your English with these prune vs prone correct usage rules—quiz yourself today!
