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Question

Directions : Given below are some idioms/phrases followed by four alternative meanings to each. Select the most appropriate response from the options provided and mark your response on the Answer Sheet accordingly.

Open a can of worms

This question was previously asked in
CDS 1 2026 Maths Question Paper (12-Apr-2026)
The correct answer is
To spark a situation that creates problems and complications

Idiom Meaning: Open a Can of Worms

The idiom "Open a can of worms" refers to initiating a situation or uncovering something that is likely to cause significant problems, trouble, and complications.

Correct Meaning Analysis

Option 2, "To spark a situation that creates problems and complications", is the correct meaning. It accurately reflects the act of initiating a complex and troublesome issue that is difficult to resolve.

Why Other Options Are Incorrect

The other options are not appropriate:

  • Option 1 suggests creating suspense, which is unrelated to causing problems.
  • Option 3 focuses specifically on speaking at the wrong time, which is only one way to potentially open a can of worms, not the definition itself.
  • Option 4 implies secrecy, which is the opposite of uncovering or opening up a situation.

The core idea of the idiom is to bring forth a complex situation full of difficulties.

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Important Questions from Idioms and Phrases

  1. Select the INCORRECTLY spelt word.

  2. Select the option that will improve the underlined part of the given sentence. In case no improvement is needed, select ‘No improvement’.
    Since my friend was not feeling well, she asked me to come over and take care of her.

  3. Select the most appropriate idiom to fill in the blank.
    Mala __________ by cheating on the exam to win her bet with Priya.

  4. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
    Where the shoe pinches

  5. What does it imply when people say to ‘read between the lines’?

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