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Question

Choose the appropriate meaning of the underlying idiom.

They got into hot water when their tricks were revealed by their neighbour.

This question was previously asked in
SSC Stenographer 2022 Previous Year Paper (17-Nov-2022) (Shift 2)
The correct answer is

Landed in trouble

Understanding the Idiom "Got Into Hot Water"

The question asks for the meaning of the underlying idiom "got into hot water" in the sentence: "They got into hot water when their tricks were revealed by their neighbour."

Idioms are phrases or expressions whose meaning cannot be deduced simply from the literal meaning of their individual words. They have a figurative meaning that is commonly understood by native speakers.

Meaning of "Get Into Hot Water"

The idiom "to get into hot water" means to get into trouble, difficulty, or a difficult situation, often as a result of doing something wrong or being found out for doing something wrong.

In the given sentence, "They got into hot water when their tricks were revealed by their neighbour," it implies that when their neighbour exposed their "tricks" (presumably dishonest or sneaky actions), they faced negative consequences or trouble because of it.

Analyzing the Options

Let's examine each option provided and see which one best fits the meaning of "got into hot water".

  • Option 1: Landed in trouble
    This phrase directly means getting into a difficult or problematic situation, which aligns perfectly with the meaning of "got into hot water".
  • Option 2: Made fun of
    This means being ridiculed or mocked by others. While getting into trouble might sometimes lead to being made fun of, it is not the primary meaning of the idiom itself.
  • Option 3: Were thoroughly familiar with
    This means having extensive knowledge or understanding of something. This meaning is completely unrelated to the idiom "got into hot water".
  • Option 4: Took the help of
    This means receiving assistance from someone. This is the opposite of getting into trouble and is not the meaning of the idiom.

Based on the analysis, the phrase "landed in trouble" is the most appropriate meaning for the idiom "got into hot water".

Conclusion

The idiom "got into hot water" signifies facing difficulties or trouble. The context of the sentence, where their actions (tricks) led to consequences after being revealed, supports this interpretation. Therefore, "Landed in trouble" is the correct meaning.

Idiom Meaning Correct Option Match
Got into hot water To get into trouble or a difficult situation Landed in trouble

Revision Table: English Idioms and Meanings

Idiom Meaning Example Sentence
Break a leg Good luck "Break a leg on your performance tonight!"
Cost an arm and a leg Very expensive "That new car cost him an arm and a leg."
Piece of cake Very easy "The test was a piece of cake."
Bite the bullet Face a difficult situation with courage "He had to bite the bullet and take a pay cut."

Additional Information: Understanding Idioms in English

Idioms are a vital part of mastering any language, including English. They add colour and depth to communication but can be challenging for learners because their meaning isn't literal. Learning common idioms helps improve comprehension and fluency.

  • Idioms are fixed phrases. You cannot usually change the words or their order.
  • Their meaning is figurative, developed through cultural use over time.
  • Context is key to understanding idioms. The surrounding words or situation often provide clues.
  • Practicing with examples and using them in sentences helps in memorizing and understanding idioms.

The idiom "get into hot water" is a common one, often used when someone is reprimanded, punished, or faces negative consequences for their actions, much like in the sentence provided where the "tricks" led to trouble.

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Important Questions from Phrase or Idiom Meaning

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