Meaning: 'Metaphorically' means in a way that uses metaphor, suggesting that the future is rich in symbolic meaning beyond just the literal interpretation of 'beans.'

Wrong options:

• significantly: 'Significantly' implies a notable degree or extent, which does not fit the context of describing a figurative aspect of the future.
• intriguingly: 'Intriguingly' suggests something that arouses curiosity, but it does not convey the intended figurative meaning of the future being full of beans.
• mentally: 'Mentally' relates to the mind or mental processes, which does not appropriately describe the figurative nature of the future in this context.

Correct answer: sprightlier

Explanation: The word 'sprightlier' is the comparative form of 'sprightly,' meaning more lively or energetic. It fits grammatically as it describes the state of being in a comparative sense, and contextually, it aligns with the positive outcome of a longer life due to dietary changes.

Meaning: 'Sprightlier' means more lively or full of energy, suggesting that the speaker expects to feel more vigorous and active as a result of their dietary choices.

Wrong options:

• sightlier: 'Sightlier' means more attractive or pleasing to the eye, which does not relate to the context of health and vitality.
• ghastlier: 'Ghastlier' means more horrifying or shocking, which is contrary to the positive tone of the sentence regarding health and longevity.
• meltier: 'Meltier' is not a standard comparative form and does not convey a relevant meaning in this context.

Correct answer: good

Explanation: The word 'good' fits grammatically as an adjective describing the noun 'health.' It contextually conveys a positive state of health that the speaker aspires to achieve in their later years, aligning with the overall optimistic tone of the passage.

Meaning: 'Good' means satisfactory or positive, indicating a desirable state of health that the speaker hopes to maintain into their 90s.

Wrong options:

• bad: 'Bad' is an antonym of 'good' and does not fit the positive context of health being discussed.
• better: 'Better' implies a comparative state but lacks the definitive quality needed to describe the desired state of health in this context.
• simple: 'Simple' does not relate to health and does not convey the intended meaning of a positive state of well-being.

Correct answer: prematurely

Explanation: The word 'prematurely' fits grammatically as an adverb modifying the verb 'die,' indicating that the deaths occur before the expected time. Contextually, it aligns with the serious issue of people dying due to inadequate nutrition, enhancing the urgency of the statement.

Meaning: 'Prematurely' means occurring before the usual or expected time, highlighting the tragic nature of deaths caused by lack of calories and nutrients.

Wrong options:

• precisely: 'Precisely' means exactly or accurately, which does not fit the context of discussing untimely deaths.
• professionally: 'Professionally' relates to a profession or occupation, which is irrelevant to the context of mortality due to dietary issues.
• presumably: 'Presumably' suggests something assumed to be true, but it does not convey the urgency or factual nature of the deaths being discussed.