2023 · Q93
Each of the following questions has underlined idioms/phrases. Each sentence is followed by four options. Choose the option that best describes the meaning of the underlined idiom/phrase.
He **strained every nerve** to understand the discourse on Philosophy.
EnglishIdioms and Phrases
- ATried hard
- BCriticized
- CTried half heartedly
- DRaised questions
Explanation
The idiom 'strained every nerve' means to make a great effort, to try very hard. In the sentence, he made intense effort to understand philosophy. Option (a) 'Tried hard' is the direct meaning. Option (b) 'criticized', (c) 'tried half heartedly' (opposite), and (d) 'raised questions' are incorrect. Straining nerves metaphorically means exerting maximum mental effort. Hence option A is correct. Cross-checked with Oswaal CDS Yearwise Solved Papers.