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Question

Directions: Choose the most appropriate answer from among the options (a), (b), (c) or (d).

Cook someone's goose

This question was previously asked in
NDA I 2023 GAT Previous Year Paper (16-Apr-2023)
The correct answer is

To spoil other's plans

Understanding the Idiom: Cook Someone's Goose

The question asks for the meaning of the idiom "Cook someone's goose". Idioms are phrases or expressions whose meaning cannot be deduced from the literal meaning of its individual words. Understanding idioms is crucial for comprehending language nuances.

Let's break down the meaning of "Cook someone's goose". This idiom is used to describe an action that effectively ruins someone's plans or chances of success. It signifies bringing about someone's downfall or failure, often in a decisive or irreparable way.

Analyzing the Options

We need to evaluate each provided option to find the one that best matches the meaning of "Cook someone's goose".

  • Option 1: To assist others
    The idiom "Cook someone's goose" implies causing harm or ruin, not helping. Therefore, this option is incorrect.
  • Option 2: Hypnotize other's mind
    This option is completely unrelated to the meaning of ruining someone's plans or chances. Hypnotism involves influencing someone's mind, which is not what the idiom describes. Thus, this option is incorrect.
  • Option 3: To spoil other's plans
    This definition aligns perfectly with the common understanding of "Cook someone's goose". It means to ruin someone's carefully made plans or frustrate their efforts to achieve something.
  • Option 4: Inviting misfortune
    While spoiling someone's plans (cooking their goose) can certainly lead to misfortune for them, the idiom specifically points to the action of ruining the plans or chances, which is a more direct cause than simply "inviting misfortune". "To spoil other's plans" is a more precise meaning of the idiom.

Conclusion

Based on the analysis of the idiom's meaning and the provided options, the most appropriate answer is the one that describes ruining someone's plans.

The idiom "Cook someone's goose" means to utterly ruin or destroy their chances or plans.

Idiom Meaning
Cook someone's goose To ruin someone's plans or chances

Therefore, the correct meaning of "Cook someone's goose" is "To spoil other's plans".

Revision Table: Common Idioms

Idiom Meaning
Break a leg Good luck
Hit the books To study
Let the cat out of the bag Reveal a secret
Bite the bullet Face a difficult situation with courage

Additional Information: Understanding Idioms in English

Idioms are a significant part of the English language. They add color and expressiveness but can be challenging for learners because their meaning is not literal. Mastering idioms requires exposure and practice.

  • Idioms often originate from historical events, cultural practices, or metaphors.
  • Learning idioms helps improve fluency and comprehension of native speakers.
  • Context is very important when encountering an unfamiliar idiom.
  • Some idioms have variations in wording or regional differences.

Regularly studying common idioms is a great way to enhance your English language skills and vocabulary.

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Important Questions from Phrase or Idiom Meaning

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