Question

In the question below, a related phrase is followed by a group of words. Select the group of words that best expresses a relationship similar to the one expressed in the original phrase.
Die in harness

• A. die while riding
• B. die at the height of one’s success
• C. die with help
• D. die when the work has been completed

Hint:

Idioms often have figurative meanings far from their literal interpretations. “Die in harness” is about dying while still working, not about an actual harness.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the idiom “die in harness”
The phrase “die in harness” refers to dying while still actively engaged in one’s duties or profession, often at the peak of one’s career, rather than retiring or stepping away from work.
Step 2: Contextual meaning
The imagery of “harness” comes from horses that work while wearing harnesses—dying in harness means dying while still “in service.” In modern usage, it suggests passing away while still working productively or during a period of great success.
Step 3: Eliminating incorrect options
- Option 1 (“die while riding”) interprets “harness” literally, but the idiom is figurative.
- Option 3 (“die with help”) has no connection to the idiom.
- Option 4 (“die when the work has been completed”) contradicts the meaning, as “in harness” means before the work ends.
Step 4: Selecting the correct option
Option 2 (“die at the height of one’s success”) best fits the idiomatic meaning because it implies active involvement and achievement at the time of death. \[ \boxed{\text{die at the height of one’s success}} \]