Question

Choose the correct meaning of the underlined phrase in the given context from the options given below. The manager had to \(\underline{pull\ strings\ to\ get\ invitation\ passes\ for \ the\ concert.}\)

• A. play music
• B. use personal influence
• C. to be courageous
• D. remain calm

Hint:

Idioms often have meanings that are not predictable from the literal meanings of the words. It's helpful to learn common idioms and their figurative meanings.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understand the idiom. The phrase "to pull strings" is an idiom. It refers to using one's connections or influence, often secretively, to make something happen. The imagery comes from a puppeteer pulling strings to control a puppet.

Step 2: Apply the meaning to the context. In the sentence, the manager needed to get invitation passes, which were likely hard to obtain. By "pulling strings," the manager used his special connections or influence to acquire them.

Step 3: Match the meaning to the options. "Use personal influence" is the precise definition of the idiom "pull strings".