Question:
Choose the correct meaning of the idiom "Spill the beans".
Choose the correct meaning of the idiom "Spill the beans".
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Idiomatic expressions are figurative and should almost never be interpreted literally.
If an option describes the physical actions of the words in the idiom (like spilling actual food), it is almost always a distractor designed to mislead you.
If an option describes the physical actions of the words in the idiom (like spilling actual food), it is almost always a distractor designed to mislead you.
Updated On: May 27, 2026
- To waste food carelessly
- To reveal a secret unintentionally
- To create confusion in public
- To avoid answering a question
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The Correct Option is B
Solution and Explanation
Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks us to identify the correct figurative meaning of the common English idiom "Spill the beans".
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Origin and Meaning of the Idiom: The idiom "spill the beans" is used in informal English to mean disclosing secret information, especially unintentionally or prematurely.
- Analysis of Option (B) "To reveal a secret unintentionally": This is the standard, widely accepted definition of the idiom. For example, "We were planning a surprise party for him, but his sister spilled the beans."
- Analysis of Option (A) "To waste food carelessly": This is a literal interpretation of the words "spill" and "beans". Idioms cannot be understood literally, so this option is incorrect.
- Analysis of Option (C) "To create confusion in public": While revealing a secret might lead to confusion, the phrase itself does not mean creating public disorder or confusion.
- Analysis of Option (D) "To avoid answering a question": This is the opposite of spilling the beans. Avoiding a question is closer in meaning to "beating around the bush" or "stonewalling".
Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct meaning of "Spill the beans" is Option (B).
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