The correct answer is A. more quickly.

In this sentence, the comparative form “more quickly” is the appropriate choice to convey the intended meaning. Let’s explore why “A. more quickly” is the correct answer and why the other options are not suitable:

A. More Quickly:

The sentence “He cut my hair more quickly today than last time” is a comparative sentence that highlights a comparison between two different occasions: the present haircut and a previous one. In this context, “more quickly” is the correct choice to convey the idea that the hair cutting process was faster or more efficient this time than it was during the previous visit.

1. Comparative Form:

“More quickly” is formed using the comparative form of the adverb “quickly.” When comparing the speed or efficiency of two actions, the comparative form is used to indicate that one action is performed with a higher degree of speed or efficiency than the other.

In this case, “more” is added to “quickly” to create “more quickly,” which emphasizes that the hair cutting process was done faster on the present occasion compared to the previous one.

2. Precise Comparison:

The use of “more quickly” provides a precise and clear comparison. It specifically communicates that there has been an increase in speed or efficiency in the hair cutting process, which is the intended meaning of the sentence. The comparative form allows the reader or listener to understand the contrast between the two occasions accurately.

3. Adverbial Form:

“Quickly” is an adverb that describes how the hair cutting was done. Adverbs modify verbs, in this case, the action of cutting hair. By using the adverbial form, the sentence conveys information about the manner in which the action (haircut) was performed. In this context, “quickly” describes the speed or efficiency of the action.

Now, let’s examine why the other options are not correct:

B. More Quick:

The phrase “more quick” is not grammatically correct in this context. While “quick” is an adjective that means fast or speedy, it is not used as an adverb to describe how an action was performed. In comparative sentences like this one, where we are comparing the speed of two actions (haircuts), we need to use the adverbial form, which is “quickly.” Therefore, “more quick” is not a valid construction in this sentence.

C. Quick:

Using “quick” without any comparative form does not effectively convey the comparison between the two hair cutting experiences. While “quick” is an adjective that describes speed, it does not indicate whether the hair cutting process was faster or slower this time compared to the previous visit. The absence of a comparative form makes the sentence less clear about the intended contrast in speed or efficiency.

D. Quicker:

“Quicker” is the comparative form of the adjective “quick.” While it is a grammatically correct word to use in this context, it is not the most suitable choice for conveying the desired level of comparison in the given sentence.

“Quicker” implies that the hair cutting process was faster this time, but it does not provide the same degree of comparison as “more quickly.” “More quickly” specifically emphasizes the increase in speed or efficiency compared to the previous visit, making it a more precise choice in this context.

In summary, “A. more quickly” is the correct answer because it accurately and precisely conveys the intended comparison of the speed or efficiency of the hair cutting process between two different occasions. The use of “more quickly” with the adverbial form “quickly” emphasizes the increase in speed this time compared to the previous visit.

The other options, such as “more quick,” “quick,” and “quicker,” do not provide the same level of clarity and precision in expressing this comparison, either due to grammatical issues or a lack of specificity.