When the author was torn among several ways to sign the big card, he felt like…
2015
When the author was torn among several ways to sign the big card, he felt like ‘a rabbit in the headlights’. In this context, what does the phrase mean?
Answer: A. A state of confusion — ConceptAn idiom conveys a figurative meaning rather than a literal scene. The image of a rabbit caught in headlights represents a person momentarily frozen…
- A.
A state of confusion
- B.
A state of pleasure
- C.
A state of anxiety
- D.
A state of pain
Attempted by 5 students.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Concept
An idiom conveys a figurative meaning rather than a literal scene.
The image of a rabbit caught in headlights represents a person momentarily frozen and unable to decide or react because a sudden situation feels overwhelming.
Application
The passage says that the author was ‘on the spot’, torn among a fun message, an in-joke, and a drawing, and overwhelmed by the available choices. These contextual clues point to indecision and mental disorientation.
Contrast
Confusion: difficulty choosing clearly among several alternatives is the central state described in the passage.
Pleasure: enjoyment or satisfaction is not suggested by the author’s sense of horror and pressure.
Anxiety: worry may accompany the moment, but the passage specifically emphasizes being torn among many choices.
Pain: no physical or emotional hurt is described as the meaning of the image.
Result
Therefore, the phrase means a state of confusion.