ব্যাখ্যা
Correct Answer: (C) by
Preposition usage with time and instruments is a classic area tested in NTRCA English grammar sections.
Why 'by' is correct:
— "What is the time by your watch?" = What time does your watch show?
— 'by' is used to indicate the source or instrument of measurement
— "By your watch" means "according to your watch" or "as shown by your watch"
— This is a standard English expression for asking the time as indicated by a specific timepiece
Common preposition patterns with time:
— by your watch / by the clock = according to the watch/clock
— at noon / at midnight / at night = specific time points
— in the morning / in the afternoon / in the evening = parts of the day
— on Monday / on the 5th = specific days and dates
Why other options are wrong:
✗ in: used for months, years, seasons, and parts of the day ("in the morning", "in 2024")
✗ at: used for specific times ("at 5 o'clock", "at noon") — not for "according to your watch"
✗ to: used in time expressions like "ten to five" = 4:50 — different usage
Source: Oxford English Preposition Guide; Wren & Martin English Grammar; Past NTRCA Question Bank.