Final answer:
The 3-letter word that can be a coal scuttle or a trough for carrying bricks is 'bin'.
Step-by-step explanation:
The 3-letter word that can refer to both a coal scuttle and a trough for carrying bricks is: A) Bin. A bin is a versatile term that can be used for various containers or receptacles, and its specific meaning can be inferred from the context. In the case of a coal scuttle, a bin is used to hold and carry coal, typically with a handle for ease of transportation. Similarly, in the context of carrying bricks, a bin might be a trough-like container used in construction for transporting or storing bricks. The term "bin" thus serves a dual purpose, encompassing different types of containers based on their specific use.