In the following question, an idiomatic expression or a proverb is…
2025
In the following question, an idiomatic expression or a proverb is highlighted. Select the alternative which best describes its use in the sentence.
Rama Mohan has been chasing his tail all week collecting data but the report is still not ready
- A.
Wasting a lot of time.
- B.
Walking a long distance.
- C.
Travelling a lot.
- D.
Doing a lot but achieving little.
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Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Meaning: The idiom 'chasing his tail' means spending a lot of time and effort being very busy but making little real progress.
How it applies here: Rama Mohan has been collecting data all week (he is busy), but the report is still not ready (little achieved).
Correct answer — Doing a lot but achieving little. This option captures both the activity and the lack of meaningful progress shown in the sentence.
Why the other choices are wrong — 'Wasting a lot of time' is close but misses the emphasis on being actively busy; 'Walking a long distance' and 'Travelling a lot' are literal interpretations and do not reflect the idiomatic, figurative meaning.
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