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Question

Choose the option which best expresses the meaning of the idiom/phrase given below:

"Let the cat out of the bag"

This question was previously asked in
SSC-JHT Paper 1 2017 Question Paper (15-Jun-2017)
The correct answer is

To reveal a secret unintentionally

This question asks for the meaning of the English idiom "Let the cat out of the bag". Idioms are phrases where the words together have a different meaning than the literal meanings of the individual words.

Understanding the Idiom 'Let the cat out of the bag'

The idiom "Let the cat out of the bag" refers to the act of revealing a secret, often accidentally or carelessly. Imagine a situation where someone was trying to keep something hidden, like a surprise party or a secret plan, but they mistakenly let slip the information.

Analyzing the Options

Let's look at the given options to find the one that best matches the meaning of the idiom:

  • To make a lot of noise
  • To reveal a secret unintentionally
  • To start a quarrel
  • To walk around like cat

Identifying the Correct Meaning

Comparing the idiom's common usage with the options provided:

  • Option 1: "To make a lot of noise" is incorrect. This idiom has nothing to do with noise levels.
  • Option 2: "To reveal a secret unintentionally" perfectly matches the meaning of "letting the cat out of the bag". It implies divulging information that was supposed to be kept secret, usually by mistake. For example, if someone accidentally mentions a surprise birthday gift, they have let the cat out of the bag.
  • Option 3: "To start a quarrel" is incorrect. The idiom is about revealing secrets, not about initiating arguments.
  • Option 4: "To walk around like cat" is incorrect. This is a literal interpretation and doesn't align with the idiomatic meaning at all.

Therefore, the best expression of the idiom's meaning is to reveal a secret unintentionally.

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