In the following question, out of the given four alternatives, select the…
2021
In the following question, out of the given four alternatives, select the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the Idiom/Phrase.
To throw cold water on
- A.
To be perplexed
- B.
A worthless, dishonest person
- C.
To discourage
- D.
To wake someone up
Attempted by 15 students.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Answer: To discourage — to dampen enthusiasm or express disapproval that reduces someone's excitement or plans.
Definition: To reduce enthusiasm, dissuade, or express something that makes a person less eager to continue.
Example: "When management criticized the idea publicly, it threw cold water on the team’s excitement."
Why the other choices are incorrect:
"To be perplexed" means to be confused; it does not capture the idea of discouraging or dampening enthusiasm.
"A worthless, dishonest person" labels a person; the idiom describes an action that reduces enthusiasm, not a character judgment.
"To wake someone up" is a literal interpretation and does not reflect the figurative, idiomatic meaning.