Select the most appropriate synonym of the highlighted word.
My father took a moment to ponder before signing the deeds of our ancestral home.

Correct option is A

The correct synonym of the given word is (a) Contemplate.
Ponder: To think deeply or carefully about something. (गहराई से विचार करना)
Example: She pondered over the meaning of the poem for a long time.
Contemplate: To consider something thoughtfully and deeply. (मनन करना, चिंतन करना)
Example: He contemplated quitting his job to follow his passion.
Synonyms: consider, contemplate, reflect, deliberate
Antonyms: ignore, neglect, disregard, dismiss
Meanings of all the given options:
· (a) Contemplate: Think deeply (मनन करना)
· (b) Brief: Short in duration or summary (संक्षिप्त)
· (c) Sigh: Audible breath expressing emotion (आह भरना)
· (d) Hesitate: Pause before doing something (हिचकिचाना)