Usage of rare, sparse or scarce

sophie · Wed Jul 09, 2008 7:34 am *Usage of rare, sparse or scarce*

Please help me to choose the right answer in this sentence.
Her daughter is of .... beauty.
a. rare
b. sparse
c. scarce
d. all are correct
Thanks a lot.
_________________
On earth there is nothing great but man, in man there is nothing great but mind.

Mister Micawber · Wed Jul 09, 2008 9:52 am *Usage of rare, sparse or scarce*

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How about trying yourself first? Hint: Is the girl beautiful?
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_________________
Canadian-American native speaker
who teaches English for a living at Mister Micawber's
ESL cafe: Interview with Mr. Micawber

sophie · Wed Jul 09, 2008 16:30 pm *Usage of rare, sparse or scarce*

Oh, I think this sentence means the girl has a great beauty and very few people are more beautiful than her.
"Rare" is just concerned with the frequency of action or occasion. "Sparse" just describes the density. So the answer can't be a, b or d. I think the answer is c.
What do you think about it?

abraaocoutinho · Wed Jul 09, 2008 16:53 pm *Usage of rare, sparse or scarce*

I think the answer would be "rare" because both "scarce" and "sparse" give an idea of lack. So, i think her beauty is rare because it is uncommon.
that is my opinion.
let's hear a 3rd one.
thanks.

sophie · Wed Jul 09, 2008 16:56 pm *Usage of rare, sparse or scarce*

Well, I think I'll take it into consideration.
Anyway, thank you very much, Abraaocoutinho!

Mister Micawber · Wed Jul 09, 2008 23:51 pm *Usage of rare, sparse or scarce*

.
'Rare' is indeed the answer. Here, 'rare' = 'marked by an uncommon quality; especially superlative or extreme of its kind ("What is so rare as a day in June-J.R.Lowell")'.
.
_________________
Canadian-American native speaker
who teaches English for a living at Mister Micawber's
ESL cafe: Interview with Mr. Micawber

sophie · Thu Jul 10, 2008 4:30 am *Usage of rare, sparse or scarce*

Well, thank you.

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