Question

Idiom: To make clean breast of}

• A. To gain prominence
• B. To praise oneself
• C. To confess without reserve
• D. To destroy before it blooms

Hint:

For idioms, avoid literal interpretation—focus on the figurative sense that has evolved over time.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Identify literal vs idiomatic meaning.
The phrase “to make clean breast of}” is not about cleaning or physical action. It is an idiom, and idioms often carry metaphorical meaning.
Step 2: Interpret the metaphor.
“Clean breast” metaphorically refers to revealing all that is hidden in one’s heart or mind—removing burdens by speaking the truth.
Step 3: Match with correct meaning.
Among the options, “To confess without reserve” captures the idea of making a complete and honest admission, aligning perfectly with the idiom’s accepted meaning. Other options like gaining prominence or praising oneself do not match the idiomatic sense.
\[ \boxed{\text{(c) To confess without reserve}} \]