Direction: Given below are some idioms/phrases followed by four alternative meanings to each. Choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which is the most appropriate expression. To sail close to the wind
to do something that is dangerous
Understanding the Idiom: To Sail Close to the Wind
The idiom "To sail close to the wind" is a common English phrase that originates from sailing terminology. When a sailboat sails close to the wind, it means it is sailing as near as possible to the direction from which the wind is blowing. This maneuver requires skill and precision, as sailing too close to the wind can cause the sails to flap uselessly (luff) or even stop the boat.
Metaphorically, this idiom is used to describe a situation where someone is operating very near to the limits of what is acceptable, legal, or safe. It implies taking risks, often deliberately, and being very close to potential trouble or failure. It suggests a dangerous or risky course of action.
Let's look at the given options and see which one best fits this meaning:
Option 1: to pretend to be something that you are not
This describes deception or hypocrisy. It does not align with the meaning of taking risks or operating near limits. So, this option is incorrect.
Option 2: to be in some unpleasant situation
While sailing close to the wind might lead to an unpleasant situation if things go wrong, the idiom itself describes the act of taking the risk or being near the limits, not necessarily the state of being in an unpleasant situation. This option is too general and doesn't capture the core meaning of the idiom. So, this option is incorrect.
Option 3: to be destroyed by a belief
This relates to being negatively impacted or ruined because of one's convictions or faith. This meaning has no connection to the idiom about sailing or taking risks. So, this option is incorrect.
Option 4: to do something that is dangerous
This option perfectly captures the essence of the idiom "to sail close to the wind". It describes taking an action that involves risk and is potentially dangerous, mirroring the literal act of sailing very near the wind direction, which carries the risk of losing power or control. This is the most appropriate meaning.
Therefore, the most appropriate meaning for the idiom "To sail close to the wind" is to do something that is dangerous or risky.
Revision Table: Key Idioms and Meanings
| Idiom/Phrase | Meaning | Context/Example Use |
|---|---|---|
| To sail close to the wind | To do something risky or dangerous; to operate near the limits of what is permissible. | He was sailing close to the wind with his tax deductions. |
| To rock the boat | To do or say something that will upset a situation and cause problems. | Try not to rock the boat during the negotiations. |
| To weather the storm | To survive a difficult period. | They managed to weather the storm financially. |
Additional Information: Understanding Idioms and Phrases
Idioms and phrases are expressions where the meaning isn't immediately obvious from the individual words. They add color and richness to language. Understanding common idioms like "to sail close to the wind" is important for comprehension and effective communication in English.
Idioms often have historical or cultural origins, like the sailing context for "sail close to the wind".
Learning idioms helps in understanding native speakers and improves fluency.
The meaning of an idiom is often figurative, not literal.
When encountering an unfamiliar idiom, try to look for context clues or consult a dictionary or resource dedicated to idioms to grasp its intended meaning.
Similar Questions
Direction: Given below are some idioms/phrases followed by four alternative meanings to each. Choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which is the most appropriate expression.
A match made in heaven
Direction: Given below are some idioms/phrases followed by four alternative meanings to each. Choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which is the most appropriate expression.
A culture vulture
Direction: Given below are some idioms/phrases followed by four alternative meanings to each. Choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which is the most appropriate expression.
A death blow
Direction:Given below are some idioms/phrases followed by four alternative meanings to each. Choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which is the most appropriate expression.
The jewel in the crown
Direction: Given below are some idioms/phrases followed by four alternative meanings to each. Choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which is the most appropriate expression.
To live in a fool's paradise
Direction:Given below are some idioms/phrases followed by four alternative meanings to each. Choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which is the most appropriate expression.
A rotten apple
Direction: Given below are some idioms/phrases followed by four alternative meanings to each. Choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which is the most appropriate expression.
To vote with your feet
Direction: Given below are some idioms/phrases followed by four alternative meanings to each. Choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which is the most appropriate expression.
Verbal diarrhoea
In the following question, out of the given four alternatives, select the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the Idiom/Phrase.
A double entendre
Direction: Given below are some idioms/phrases followed by four alternative meanings to each. Choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which is the most appropriate expression.
To cut your own throat
Important Questions from Phrase or Idiom Meaning
Direction: Given below are some idioms/phrases followed by four alternative meanings to each. Choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which is the most appropriate expression.
A match made in heaven
Direction: Given below are some idioms/phrases followed by four alternative meanings to each. Choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which is the most appropriate expression.
A culture vulture
Direction: Given below are some idioms/phrases followed by four alternative meanings to each. Choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which is the most appropriate expression.
A death blow
Direction:Given below are some idioms/phrases followed by four alternative meanings to each. Choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which is the most appropriate expression.
The jewel in the crown
Direction: Given below are some idioms/phrases followed by four alternative meanings to each. Choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which is the most appropriate expression.
To live in a fool's paradise
