Question:
Choose the option that best expresses the meaning of the idiom {“Too many irons in the fire”.
Choose the option that best expresses the meaning of the idiom {“Too many irons in the fire”.
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Never interpret idioms literally. Always focus on the figurative meaning developed through usage.
Updated On: Jun 8, 2026
- To work near a furnace
- To have too many tasks or commitments at the same time
- To waste resources carelessly
- To be physically exhausted
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The Correct Option is B
Solution and Explanation
Concept:
Idioms are fixed expressions whose meanings cannot be understood by interpreting the individual words literally.
Modern CUET papers often include idioms where all options appear plausible, making elimination difficult.
Step 1: Read the idiom carefully. \[ \text{Too many irons in the fire} \] If interpreted literally, it appears related to metalwork. However, idioms must be interpreted figuratively.
Step 2: Understand the actual meaning. The expression refers to a person handling numerous projects, responsibilities, or commitments simultaneously. Such a person may become overwhelmed because attention is divided among many activities.
Step 3: Evaluate options. Option (A): Literal interpretation. Incorrect. Option (B): Matches the accepted idiomatic meaning. Correct. Option (C): Unrelated. Option (D): Not the standard meaning.
Step 4: Therefore, \[ \boxed{\text{Option (B)}} \]
Step 1: Read the idiom carefully. \[ \text{Too many irons in the fire} \] If interpreted literally, it appears related to metalwork. However, idioms must be interpreted figuratively.
Step 2: Understand the actual meaning. The expression refers to a person handling numerous projects, responsibilities, or commitments simultaneously. Such a person may become overwhelmed because attention is divided among many activities.
Step 3: Evaluate options. Option (A): Literal interpretation. Incorrect. Option (B): Matches the accepted idiomatic meaning. Correct. Option (C): Unrelated. Option (D): Not the standard meaning.
Step 4: Therefore, \[ \boxed{\text{Option (B)}} \]
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