Question

What does the idiom ``Bite the bullet" mean?

• A. To face a difficult situation bravely
• B. To give up under pressure
• C. To criticize someone harshly
• D. To act without thinking

Hint:

For idiom questions, understand the figurative meaning by recalling common usage or historical context. Test the idiom in a sentence to see which option aligns with its sense (e.g., courage, avoidance). Eliminate options unrelated to the idiom's theme, and practice by using idioms in sentences to reinforce their meanings.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

An idiom is a group of words established by usage as having a meaning not deducible from those of the individual words. The idiom "Bite the bullet" means to face a difficult situation bravely. This expression originates from the historical practice of having patients bite on a bullet during surgical procedures as a way of coping with the pain when anesthesia was not available.

Breakdown of Options:

• Option 1: To face a difficult situation bravely - Correct. This describes the essence of enduring a tough situation with courage.
• Option 2: To give up under pressure - Incorrect. This is the opposite of the idiom's meaning.
• Option 3: To criticize someone harshly - Incorrect. This does not align with the concept of bravery associated with the idiom.
• Option 4: To act without thinking - Incorrect. This does not reflect the meaning of the idiom.

Thus, the correct interpretation of "Bite the bullet" is to bravely confront a challenging situation.