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Question

Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.

Apple of one’s eye

This question was previously asked in
SSC CGL 2019 (Tier 2) GS Finance & Economics Previous Year Paper (17-Nov-2020)
The correct answer is

Very dear

Understanding the Idiom: Apple of One's Eye

The question asks for the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom, "Apple of one's eye". Idioms are phrases or expressions whose meaning cannot be deduced simply from the ordinary meaning of the individual words.

Let's analyze the idiom "Apple of one's eye". This idiom has a specific meaning in English.

Meaning of "Apple of One's Eye"

The idiom "Apple of one's eye" refers to a person or thing that someone cherishes above all others. It is someone or something that is regarded with deep affection and is especially precious or loved. Think of it as the center of their attention and affection.

  • Historically, the "apple" in the eye was thought to be the pupil, which is essential for sight. Therefore, the "apple of the eye" is something vital, precious, and indispensable.
  • It is commonly used to describe a child or grandchild who is particularly loved and treasured by a parent or grandparent.

Analyzing the Given Options

Let's look at the provided options and see which one best fits the meaning of the idiom:

Option Analysis
1. Very rosy "Rosy" often refers to a pinkish color, health, or optimism (as in "rosy future"). This does not relate to the meaning of being cherished. So, this option is incorrect.
2. Very clean "Clean" refers to being free from dirt or pollution. This has no connection to the meaning of being loved or precious. So, this option is incorrect.
3. Very easy "Easy" refers to something that requires little effort. This is unrelated to the meaning of the idiom. So, this option is incorrect.
4. Very dear "Dear" means regarded with deep affection; cherished. This aligns perfectly with the meaning of the idiom "Apple of one's eye".

Conclusion

Based on the analysis of the idiom and the options, the phrase "Very dear" is the most appropriate meaning for "Apple of one's eye". It correctly captures the sense of being deeply loved and cherished.

Revision Table: Key Idioms & Meanings

Idiom Meaning Example Usage
Apple of one's eye Someone or something regarded with great affection; cherished. His youngest daughter is the apple of his eye.
Break a leg Good luck (used especially before a performance). "Break a leg!" shouted the director to the actors.
Bite the bullet To face a difficult or unpleasant situation with courage. He had to bite the bullet and tell his boss about the mistake.

Additional Information on Idioms

Idioms are a vital part of language, making it richer and more expressive. Understanding common English idioms is crucial for:

  • Improving Comprehension: You can understand native speakers and written texts more easily.
  • Enhancing Communication: Using idioms correctly can make your language sound more natural and fluent.
  • Competitive Exams: Many English proficiency tests and competitive exams include questions on idioms.

Learning idioms involves not just memorizing meanings but also understanding how they are used in context.

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Important Questions from Phrase or Idiom Meaning

  1. Direction: Given below are some idioms/phrases followed by four alternative meanings to each. Choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which is the most appropriate expression.

    A match made in heaven

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  3. Direction: Given below are some idioms/phrases followed by four alternative meanings to each. Choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which is the most appropriate expression.

    A death blow

  4. Direction:Given below are some idioms/phrases followed by four alternative meanings to each. Choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which is the most appropriate expression.

    The jewel in the crown

  5. Direction: Given below are some idioms/phrases followed by four alternative meanings to each. Choose the response (a), (b), (c) or (d) which is the most appropriate expression.

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