Why it is correct: I know but this time I mean it?

[Levitta]

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #119 "English Tenses", question 4

Sarah: I know but this time I ......... it.

(a) have meant
(b) mean
(c) had meant
(d) will mean

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #119 "English Tenses", answer 4

Sarah: I know but this time I mean it.

Correct answer: (b) mean
_________________________

why does the item b is correct?

Levitta

[Alan]

Hi English Learner,

The correct answer is I mean it and has the idea of Sarah saying that she is now quite serious that what she has said is definite.

Alan
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English as a Second Language
You can read my ESL story Book Expressions