All Exams Test series for 1 year @ ₹349 only
Question

Directions: Given below are some idioms/phrases followed by four alternative meanings to each. Choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d), which presents the most appropriate meaning and mark your response on the Answer Sheet accordingly.

Walking on eggshells

This question was previously asked in
CDS 2 2024 Maths Question Paper (01-Sep-2024)
The correct answer is Careful not to offend or upset others

Meaning of the Idiom 'Walking on Eggshells'

The idiom 'Walking on eggshells' describes a situation where a person is being extremely cautious and careful in their words or actions.

The reason for this careful behavior is usually to avoid upsetting, offending, or angering another person who is perceived as easily provoked or sensitive. The phrase evokes the image of trying to walk across a floor covered in fragile eggshells without breaking them, highlighting the delicate nature of the situation.

Analyzing the Options for 'Walking on Eggshells'

Let's examine the provided options to find the most suitable meaning for the idiom:

  • Option 1: Careful not to offend or upset others
    This option accurately reflects the core meaning of the idiom. It emphasizes the need for caution in behavior specifically to prevent causing offense or distress to someone else.
  • Option 2: Walking with great care
    While walking carefully is part of the idiom, this option is too literal. It doesn't explain the underlying reason for the caution, which is crucial to understanding the idiomatic meaning.
  • Option 3: Making a noisy entry
    This option suggests drawing attention loudly, which is contrary to the cautious and quiet nature implied by 'walking on eggshells'.
  • Option 4: Undertaking an uncomfortable journey
    This is a general description of discomfort and doesn't capture the specific social dynamic or the reason for the caution involved in the idiom.

Conclusion on the Idiom's Meaning

Based on the analysis, the most appropriate meaning for the idiom 'Walking on eggshells' is behaving in a very careful way to avoid causing offense or upsetting someone. This corresponds directly to the first option.

Was this answer helpful?

Similar Questions

  1. Direction:Choose the response (1), (2), (3) or (4) which is the most appropriate meaning and mark your response accordingly.

    Have an axe to grind

  2. Direction: Given below are some idioms/phrases followed by four alternative meanings to each. Choose the response (1 ), (2 ), (3 ) or (4 ) which is the most appropriate meaning and mark your response on the Answer Sheet accordingly.

    Laughing stock

  3. Direction: Given below are some idioms/phrases followed by four alternative meanings to each. Choose the response (1 ), (2 ), (3 ) or (4 ) which is the most appropriate meaning and mark your response on the Answer Sheet accordingly.

    Pay over the odds

  4. Direction:Choose the response (1 ), (2 ), (3 ) or (4 ) which is the most appropriate meaning and mark your response accordingly.

    Be in the soup

  5. Direction: Choose the response (1 ), (2 ), (3 ) or (4 ) which is the most appropriate meaning and mark your response accordingly.

    Bite the bullet

  6. Direction: Given below are some idioms/phrases followed by four alternative meanings to each. Choose the response (1 ), (2 ), (3 ) or (4 ) which is the most appropriate meaning and mark your response on the Answer Sheet accordingly.

    Play to the gallery

  7. Direction: Given below are some idioms/phrases followed by four alternative meanings to each. Choose the response (1 ), (2 ), (3 ) or (4 ) which is the most appropriate meaning and mark your response on the Answer Sheet accordingly.

    A white elephant

  8. Direction: Choose the response (1 ), (2 ), (3 ) or (4 ) which is the most appropriate meaning and mark your response accordingly.

    A hot potato

  9. Direction: Given below are some idioms/phrases followed by four alternative meanings to each. Choose the response (1 ), (2 ), (3 ) or (4 ) which is the most appropriate meaning and mark your response on the Answer Sheet accordingly.

    Apples and oranges

  10. Direction: Given below are some idioms/phrases followed by four alternative meanings to each. Choose the response (1 ), (2 ), (3 ) or (4 ) which is the most appropriate meaning and mark your response accordingly.

    A turn of the screw


Important Questions from Phrase or Idiom Meaning

  1. Directions:Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.

    Bone of contention

  2. Directions: Select the option that means the same as the given idiom.

    To eat humble pie

  3. Select the option that means the same as the given idiom.

    Like a cakewalk

  4. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.

    To beat about the bush

  5. Select the option that means the same as the given idiom.

    A stone’s throw away

Need Expert Advice?
Upcoming Exams
NDA
September 13, 2026
CDS
September 13, 2026
Test Series
CDS img
Defence
UPSC CDS 2026 Mock Test Series
540 Tests 4 Tests Free
1153 Attempts
4.3(168)
English, Hindi
More Questions from CDS

Start Your Preparation with Prepp Mobile App

Download the app from Google Play & App Store
Download the app from Google Play & App Store
Prepp Mobile App