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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 2 2026 Maths Question Paper (13-Sep-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. In each of the questions, four alternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase. Choose the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the Idiom/Phrase.
    To give oneself airs
  2. In each of the questions, four alternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase. Choose the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the Idiom/Phrase.
    At a stone's throw
  3. In each of the questions, four alternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase. Choose the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the Idiom/Phrase.
    Bone of contention
  4. The sentences given with blanks are to be filled with an appropriate word(s). Four alternatives are suggested for each question. For each question, choose the correct alternative and click the button corresponding to it.
    Food was packed, and they__________, a merry, delighted party.

  5. In each of the questions, four alternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase. Choose the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the Idiom/Phrase and click the button corresponding to it.
    pull a fast one

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