In the following question, four options are given for the meaning of the given…
2023
In the following question, four options are given for the meaning of the given Idiom/Phrase. Choose the option which best expresses the meaning of the Idiom/Phrase.
Succumb to wishful thinking
- A.
Any idea, wish or hope which is proved absolutely true
- B.
Any idea, wish or hope which is proved ineffective.
- C.
Any idea, wish or hope which is somewhat true.
- D.
Any idea, wish or hope which is neither proved true nor false.
Attempted by 34 students.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Answer choice selected: the option that says "Any idea, wish or hope which is proved ineffective" is the best match among the given choices.
Meaning: to succumb to wishful thinking means to give in to hopes or desires and believe something because you want it to be true, despite lacking supporting evidence. It describes indulging in unrealistic or unfounded expectations.
Why the selected option fits:
The chosen option captures the idea that the hope is unfounded or unlikely to succeed (described as ineffective), which is closest to the idea of wishful thinking.
Note the nuance: a more precise wording would be 'an idea or hope that is unlikely to come true' rather than saying it is already proved ineffective, but among the available choices the selected wording is the best fit.
Example:
"Do you think you'll get the promotion?" "No, that's just wishful thinking."