Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom. Cross swords
To have an argument with someone
The image behind the idiom: two fencers whose swords meet in combat. Transferred to speech, it describes a clash of words rather than of blades.
The meaning: to argue or quarrel with someone — ‘The two ministers crossed swords in Parliament.’ So the answer is ‘To have an argument with someone’.
Why the others fail:
‘To stop fighting or arguing’ — the exact opposite. That sense belongs to bury the hatchet or make peace.
‘To do something very quickly’ — no connection with the image of duelling.
‘To begin taking part in a new activity’ — corresponds to idioms such as take the plunge or try one's hand at, and again involves no conflict.
Note: the idiom implies a dispute between two roughly matched parties, just as fencing requires two. One does not cross swords with someone who cannot answer back.
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