Question

Choose the correct meaning of the idioms given in bold (underlined) in the given sentence.
We should give a wide berth to bad characters.

• A. Keep away from
• B. Publicly condemn
• C. Give publicity to
• D. Not sympathise with

Hint:

To “give a wide berth” means to avoid someone or something completely — like steering away from trouble.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

The idiom "give a wide berth" means to maintain a safe distance from someone or something.
It originates from nautical language, where ships were advised to keep a wide distance from obstacles or other ships.
In modern usage, it metaphorically means to avoid or stay away from people or situations that are potentially dangerous, harmful, or undesirable.
In the sentence, “We should give a wide berth to bad characters,” it implies that we should avoid associating with or getting close to bad individuals.
Now, let’s go through the options:
- (A) Keep away from — This matches the meaning exactly.
- (B) Publicly condemn — Means to criticize openly, not to avoid.
- (C) Give publicity to — Means to promote or highlight; opposite of what’s intended.
- (D) Not sympathise with — Means to lack compassion but not necessarily to avoid.
Thus, the best meaning is (A) Keep away from.