Question

Directions: Choose the option that best expresses the meaning of the given idiom/phrase.
The results of the poll have started coming in but our party chief will be on tenterhooks until the last result comes in.

• A. In high spirits
• B. In a depressed mood
• C. In a state of agitated suspense
• D. In an exalted stage
• E. In a state of resignation

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The given question requires us to interpret the meaning of the idiom "on tenterhooks" used in the context of the sentence. Let's analyze the idiom step-by-step:

1. Idiom Understanding:
   The phrase "on tenterhooks" is commonly used to describe a state of nervousness or anxiety while awaiting an outcome. The origin of this idiom comes from hooks (tenterhooks) that were used to fasten cloth on a tenter—a framework for drying cloth. Metaphorically, the phrase implies a situation where a person is in a tense or agitated state, waiting for something to happen.
2. Contextual Understanding:
   In the given sentence: "The results of the poll have started coming in but our party chief will be on tenterhooks until the last result comes in." The phrase "on tenterhooks" indicates the anxious anticipation the party chief feels as the results are slowly being unveiled.
3. Matching with Options:
   Let's evaluate the given options to find the most suitable match for the idiom:
   • "In high spirits" - This means being very happy or joyful, which does not match the scenario of anxious suspense.
   • "In a depressed mood" - This implies sadness, which is not reflective of the tension expected from the idiom.
   • "In a state of agitated suspense" - This perfectly captures the anxious and tense anticipation implied by "on tenterhooks."
   • "In an exalted stage" - This suggests a state of elevated joy or pride, unlikely to describe the tense anticipation in the context.
   • "In a state of resignation" - This means accepting an undesirable situation, not suspense or tension.
4. Conclusion:
   The option "In a state of agitated suspense" accurately expresses the meaning of the idiom "on tenterhooks." Therefore, it is the correct answer.