Question

Choose the most appropriate words or phrases that are equivalent in meaning to the above phrase:
Under a cloud

• A. in the shade
• B. wet
• C. suspected of wrong doing
• D. hopeful

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The phrase in question, "Under a cloud," is an idiom commonly used in English. Understanding idioms is crucial for verbal and logical ability tests as they often imply meanings beyond the literal words and are part of culturally shared language.

Let's analyze the given options to find the most appropriate meaning of the phrase:

1. In the shade: This phrase means to be physically positioned in an area protected from direct sunlight. It is a literal interpretation and not relevant to the idiomatic expression.
2. Wet: This literal meaning refers to being covered with or containing liquid, usually water, and does not apply to the idiomatic expression.
3. Suspected of wrongdoing: This is the correct answer. The idiom "Under a cloud" implies that someone is viewed with suspicion or perceived to have done something wrong, thus being 'under a cloud' of doubt or suspicion.
4. Hopeful: This refers to being optimistic or full of hope, which does not correlate with the negative connotation inherent in the idiom "Under a cloud."

Thus, the most appropriate equivalent phrase for "Under a cloud" is suspected of wrongdoing because it captures the essence of being viewed with suspicion or doubt, which is the intended idiomatic meaning.