Directions: Given below are some idioms/phrases followed by four alternative meanings for each. Choose the most appropriate answer from among the options (a), (b), (c) or (d). As thick as thieves
Very close friends who are looked upon with suspicion
Understanding the Idiom: As Thick as Thieves
Idioms are phrases or expressions whose meaning cannot be deduced simply from the literal meaning of the words. The idiom "As thick as thieves" is commonly used in English to describe a particular type of relationship between people.
Analyzing the Meaning of "As Thick as Thieves"
The idiom "As thick as thieves" suggests a very close relationship between two or more people. The "thieves" part of the idiom refers to the idea that thieves often have to be very close and secretive with each other to plan and carry out their activities successfully without getting caught. They share secrets, trust each other implicitly (at least in their illegal undertakings), and stick together. Therefore, when people are described as being "as thick as thieves," it means they are very intimate, have a strong bond, share secrets, and are often seen together. There can sometimes be a connotation that their closeness is viewed with suspicion by others, perhaps because they are often together whispering or seem to exclude others.
Evaluating the Options for "As Thick as Thieves"
Let's examine each provided option to determine which best fits the meaning of the idiom "As thick as thieves".
- Option 1: Dumb person
- Analysis: This option describes a person's intelligence level. The idiom "As thick as thieves" describes a relationship or closeness between people, not their intelligence. Therefore, this option is incorrect.
- Option 2: Good for nothing
- Analysis: This option describes someone who is useless or ineffective. The idiom "As thick as thieves" describes how close people are, not their value or usefulness. Therefore, this option is incorrect.
- Option 3: Someone who uses everyone for personal gain
- Analysis: This option describes a manipulative or exploitative person. While someone who is "as thick as thieves" might be seen as secretive or potentially up to something, the core meaning of the idiom is about their close relationship with each other, not necessarily their individual tendency to exploit others for personal gain. Therefore, this option is not the most accurate meaning.
- Option 4: Very close friends who are looked upon with suspicion
- Analysis: This option describes individuals who are very close ("very close friends") and also captures the potential negative connotation sometimes associated with the idiom ("looked upon with suspicion"), implying their closeness might involve shared secrets or activities that others are wary of. This aligns well with the idea of thieves needing to be close and secretive. Therefore, this option is the most appropriate meaning for the idiom "As thick as thieves".
Conclusion on "As Thick as Thieves" Meaning
Based on the analysis of the idiom's meaning and the evaluation of the provided options, the most suitable definition for "As thick as thieves" is that of very close friends whose relationship might be viewed with suspicion by others.
| Option | Meaning Described | Fit with "As Thick as Thieves" |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dumb person | No fit - Describes intelligence, not relationship. |
| 2 | Good for nothing | No fit - Describes usefulness, not relationship. |
| 3 | Someone who uses everyone for personal gain | Partial fit - Describes a characteristic, not the core meaning of closeness. |
| 4 | Very close friends who are looked upon with suspicion | Good fit - Captures closeness and potential suspicion. |
Revision Table: Key Idioms and Meanings
| Idiom/Phrase | Common Meaning |
|---|---|
| Beat around the bush | Avoid saying what you mean, usually because it is uncomfortable. |
| Bite the bullet | To face a difficult or unpleasant situation with courage. |
| Break a leg | Good luck (often used before a performance). |
| Get something off your chest | To talk about something that has been worrying you for a long time. |
Additional Information: Idioms in English
Idioms are a fascinating part of the English language. They add color and nuance to communication but can be tricky for learners as their meaning isn't literal. Mastering idioms requires exposure and practice. Understanding the context in which an idiom is used is often key to figuring out its meaning. The idiom "As thick as thieves" is a good example where the comparison to "thieves" helps understand the secretive and very close nature of the relationship being described.
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