In the following question, a word is provided along with three sentences using that word. Select the option that indicates the statement(s) where the word is used correctly in terms of grammar and context.

SPRING

(A) The children loved to play near the freshwater spring during hot summer days.

(B) He decided to spring into action as soon as he heard the alarm ring.

(C) The driver will spring speed once the traffic clears on the highway.

The correct option is Both (A) and (B).

Let us analyze the meaning and usage of the word 'SPRING' in each of the given sentences:

Statement (A): "The children loved to play near the freshwater spring during hot summer days."
Here, 'spring' is used as a noun referring to a natural source of water issuing from the ground. This usage is grammatically and contextually correct.

Statement (B): "He decided to spring into action as soon as he heard the alarm ring."
Here, 'spring' is used as a verb in the phrase 'spring into action', which means to move suddenly or take quick action. This usage is grammatically and contextually correct.

Statement (C): "The driver will spring speed once the traffic clears on the highway."
Here, the word 'spring' is used incorrectly. The correct phrasing to denote an increase in speed would be 'pick up speed' or 'increase speed'. Therefore, statement (C) is contextually and grammatically incorrect.

Hence, the word 'SPRING' is correctly used in statements (A) and (B).