Question

Choose the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the idiom/phrase: To flog a dead horse.

• A. To whip a dead horse
• B. Attempt to do the possible
• C. Waste one's efforts
• D. To take advantage of a weakness

Hint:

Idioms usually have figurative meanings. Do not choose the literal meaning unless the question asks for it.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

• This question requires us to identify the correct figurative meaning of the common English idiom “to flog a dead horse.”

• We must avoid literal translations and focus on the metaphorical message of the phrase.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

• Metaphorical Meaning: Flogging (whipping) a horse that is already dead is completely useless because no amount of whipping will make it run or perform work. Therefore, the phrase metaphorically refers to investing time, energy, or resources into a situation that is already a lost cause, unchangeable, or completely resolved.

• Let us evaluate the options:

• Option (A) is the literal translation of the words, which is incorrect because idioms should never be interpreted literally.

• Option (B) “attempt to do the possible” is the exact opposite of the idiom's meaning, as the task is impossible.

• Option (C) “waste one's efforts” perfectly captures the sense of futility and wasted energy associated with the phrase.

• Option (D) “to take advantage of a weakness” is a completely different concept and does not fit the idiom.

• Thus, Option (C) is the correct choice.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct option is (C).