Question

The CEO's sudden resignation threw the board into a tailspin. 
What does the idiom "threw into a tailspin" mean?

• A. Made them very successful
• B. Caused extreme confusion and panic
• C. Motivated them to act
• D. Made them feel hopeful

Hint:

Idioms often use vivid imagery to describe emotions; "tailspin" is a term from aviation describing a loss of control, metaphorically meaning confusion or panic.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The phrase "threw into a tailspin" is an idiom commonly used to describe a situation where there is extreme confusion, panic, or disarray. It originates from aviation, where a 'tailspin' describes a situation in which an aircraft is rotating rapidly, often uncontrollably, around its vertical axis, leading to disorientation. When applied metaphorically, it conveys the idea of a scenario where individuals or organizations experience sudden turmoil or distress.

In the context given, the CEO's resignation caused the board to experience such confusion and panic, thereby affecting their ability to effectively manage the situation.

Thus, the correct interpretation of the idiom in the sentence provided is:

Caused extreme confusion and panic