Directions: Given below are some idioms/phrases followed by four alternative meanings to each. Select the response, (a), (b), (c) or (d), which is the most appropriate meaning and mark your response on the Answer Sheet accordingly.
Idiom Meaning: Understanding "A White Lie"
The question asks for the correct meaning of the idiom "A white lie". Idioms are phrases where the words together have a different meaning than the dictionary definitions of the individual words. Understanding idioms is crucial for improving English comprehension.
Analyzing the Idiom "A White Lie"
A "white lie" refers to a specific type of falsehood. Let's break down the options to find the most appropriate meaning:
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Option 1: An offensive way of describing something
This is incorrect. While lies can be offensive, the term "white lie" specifically implies a harmless or well-intentioned untruth, not an offensive description.
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Option 2: To do something completely impossible
This is incorrect. This description doesn't match the meaning of "white lie". It might relate to concepts like attempting the impossible, but not to deception.
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Option 3: A lie that is absolutely and universally true
This is incorrect. This option presents a contradiction. A lie, by definition, is untrue. Something that is universally true cannot be a lie.
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Option 4: A lie that you tell to avoid hurting someone
This is the correct definition. A "white lie" is a minor, often socially expected, untruth told to avoid causing someone else emotional pain, embarrassment, or distress. It's considered harmless or even polite in certain social contexts.
Conclusion on "A White Lie"
Therefore, the most accurate meaning of the idiom "A white lie" is a falsehood told with the intention of being kind or avoiding hurt feelings.
Similar Questions
- Read the following pairs :
Idiom/Phrase Meaning I. Have one foot in the grave To be in the last stage of life II. Get your feet wet Establish yourself securely in an establishment III. Follow suit Correctly conform to another's action
Identify the pair(s) wherein the meaning is correctly stated and mark your response on the Answer Sheet accordingly. - Bad blood
- Count your blessings
- Have the last laugh
- Sit on the fence
Important Questions from Idioms and Phrases
- In each of the questions, four alternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase. Choose the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the Idiom/Phrase.
To give oneself airs - In each of the questions, four alternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase. Choose the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the Idiom/Phrase.
At a stone's throw - In each of the questions, four alternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase. Choose the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the Idiom/Phrase.
Bone of contention The sentences given with blanks are to be filled with an appropriate word(s). Four alternatives are suggested for each question. For each question, choose the correct alternative and click the button corresponding to it.
Food was packed, and they__________, a merry, delighted party.In each of the questions, four alternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase. Choose the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the Idiom/Phrase and click the button corresponding to it.
pull a fast one
