Understanding the Idiom "Strain Every Nerve"

The question asks us to choose the best alternative that expresses the meaning of the idiom/phrase "Strain every nerve". Let's break down what this idiom means.

The phrase "strain every nerve" is an idiom used to describe putting forth the maximum possible effort or using all one's strength and resources to achieve a goal. When you "strain every nerve," you are not holding anything back; you are exerting yourself fully, often under difficult circumstances, to succeed.

Analyzing the Given Options

Let's look at the options provided and compare them to the meaning of "Strain every nerve":

1. Try all tricks
2. Work very hard
3. Beg before others
4. Spend a large amount

Evaluating Each Option

• Option 1: Try all tricks

  This option suggests using clever or perhaps deceptive methods. While someone might try different approaches (tricks) to achieve something, "straining every nerve" focuses on the intensity of effort, not the variety or nature of the methods. This doesn't fully capture the meaning of intense physical or mental exertion.

• Option 2: Work very hard

  This option directly aligns with the core meaning of "Strain every nerve". To "strain every nerve" means to exert oneself intensely, putting in tremendous effort. This is precisely what "work very hard" means. It implies dedicating significant energy and focus towards a task or goal.

• Option 3: Beg before others

  This option refers to pleading with others for help or resources. This action is completely unrelated to the idiom "Strain every nerve," which is about one's personal effort and exertion, not seeking external help through begging.

• Option 4: Spend a large amount

  This option relates to financial expenditure. The idiom "Strain every nerve" is about physical or mental effort, not about spending money. Therefore, this option is incorrect.

Determining the Best Fit for "Strain Every Nerve"

Comparing the options, "Work very hard" is the phrase that best conveys the meaning of "Strain every nerve". The idiom emphasizes maximum effort and exertion, which is accurately described by working very hard.

Summary Comparison

Conclusion

Based on the analysis, the alternative that best expresses the meaning of the idiom "Strain every nerve" is "Work very hard". It accurately reflects the intense effort and exertion implied by the idiom.

Revision Table Heading: Idioms and Phrases Practice

Additional Information: Learning Idioms

Learning idioms is important for understanding and using the English language effectively. Idioms are phrases where the meaning isn't immediately clear from the individual words. "Strain every nerve," for instance, doesn't literally mean damaging your physical nerves; it's a figurative expression. Studying idioms helps improve comprehension and makes your language sound more natural and fluent.

Here are some tips for learning idioms:

• Read widely: Pay attention to how idioms are used in books, articles, and conversations.
• Look up meanings: Use dictionaries or online resources to find the definitions and examples of idioms.
• Practice using them: Try to incorporate new idioms into your own speaking and writing.
• Group similar idioms: Sometimes, idioms related to effort, emotions, or situations can be grouped together for easier learning.