Select the most appropriate meaning of the underlined proverb. By arresting…
2023
Select the most appropriate meaning of the underlined proverb.
By arresting all the group leaders, they nipped the rebellion in the bud.
- A.
To fight back
- B.
To punish the opponents
- C.
To halt something at an early stage
- D.
To create a commotion
Attempted by 46 students.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Correct meaning: To halt something at an early stage.
Explanation: nipped in the bud is a metaphor meaning to stop a problem or action before it can develop or grow.
Why this fits: Arresting the group leaders prevented the rebellion from organizing and spreading, so the authorities stopped it at an early stage.
Why the other answer choices are incorrect:
"To fight back" is incorrect because it implies retaliating after an attack, not preventing the attack from happening.
"To punish the opponents" is not the best choice because the proverb focuses on preventing growth of the problem rather than on punishment as the main idea.
"To create a commotion" is incorrect because that means causing disturbance, whereas the proverb means to stop a disturbance from arising.
Tip: Look for phrases like "in the bud" which suggest the idea of an early, undeveloped stage—this usually signals the correct meaning is to prevent or stop something early.
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