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Question

Play devil's advocate

This question was previously asked in
CDS 2 2024 Maths Question Paper (01-Sep-2024)
The correct answer is
To pretend to be against an idea in order to discuss it more carefully

Understanding the Idiom: Play Devil's Advocate

The question asks for the meaning of the idiom "play devil's advocate". This idiom refers to a specific way of engaging in a discussion or debate.

Analyzing the Options for "Play Devil's Advocate"

Let's break down each option to see which one accurately defines the idiom:

  • Option 1: To try to defeat someone by tricking them - This suggests deception and aiming to win by unfair means. Playing devil's advocate isn't about trickery; it's about structured argument.
  • Option 2: To perform with a lot of skills - This relates to talent or proficiency in an activity, like sports or arts, which has no connection to the idiom "play devil's advocate".
  • Option 3: To delay doing something - This means procrastination, putting off a task. The idiom "play devil's advocate" involves active discussion, not avoidance or delay.
  • Option 4: To pretend to be against an idea in order to discuss it more carefully - This option correctly captures the essence of the idiom. When someone plays devil's advocate, they take an opposing stance, not necessarily because they believe it, but to help explore the idea thoroughly, identify potential problems, and strengthen the original argument by considering counterpoints. It's a technique used for critical examination.

Explanation of Playing Devil's Advocate

The phrase "play devil's advocate" means adopting the role of someone who argues against a particular position or idea, even if you don't personally hold that opposing view. The main goal is to stimulate discussion, uncover potential weaknesses, and test the strength of the original argument. By presenting the "devil's" perspective, one can encourage a deeper and more careful consideration of the topic at hand.

For example, if a team is proposing a new project, one member might play devil's advocate by raising concerns about budget, timeline, or potential risks. This doesn't mean they are against the project; they are helping the team to think through challenges more carefully before moving forward.

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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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