Choose the option that can replace the highlighted text with the correct…
2026
Choose the option that can replace the highlighted text with the correct idiom. The students were so impressed with the speaker that they listened with complete attention throughout his lecture.
Answer: D. hung on every word — ConceptAn idiom is a fixed expression whose meaning is understood as a whole rather than from the literal meanings of its individual words. In an…
- A.
threw caution to the wind
- B.
hit below the belt
- C.
burnt the midnight oil
- D.
hung on every word
Attempted by 6 students.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Concept
An idiom is a fixed expression whose meaning is understood as a whole rather than from the literal meanings of its individual words.
In an idiom-replacement question, first identify the precise meaning and tone of the highlighted phrase, and then choose an expression that fits both the meaning and the sentence grammar.
Application
The highlighted phrase describes the students listening with complete attention because they were impressed by the speaker. The idiom ‘hung on every word’ expresses exactly this idea of listening very attentively to everything someone says.
Contrast
‘Threw caution to the wind’ refers to acting without considering risk.
‘Hit below the belt’ refers to acting unfairly or making an unfair attack.
‘Burnt the midnight oil’ refers to working or studying late at night.
Cross-check
Substituting the idiom gives: ‘The students were so impressed with the speaker that they hung on every word throughout his lecture.’ The grammar is natural and the intended meaning is preserved.
Result
Therefore, the suitable idiom is ‘hung on every word’.