Question:
Hobson’s choice means:
Hobson’s choice means:
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Remember the simple rule of Hobson's stable: "Take this one option, or take nothing at all!" It's an illusion of choice.
Updated On: May 30, 2026
- A difficult puzzle
- No real choice at all
- A secret agreement
- Extreme happiness
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The Correct Option is B
Solution and Explanation
Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Idioms often have fascinating historical origins that explain their current figurative definitions. The phrase "Hobson's choice" describes a specific situation where an individual is offered a choice that seems optional on the surface, but in reality, there is only one true possibility available: take exactly what is offered or leave it.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The phrase comes from Thomas Hobson (1544–1631), a stable owner in Cambridge, England. Hobson kept a large collection of excellent horses for students and travelers to rent. However, to ensure his best horses weren't overworked, he gave his customers a strict rule: they could either take the horse in the stall nearest the stable door or take no horse at all. Therefore, even though customers thought they had a selection, they actually had no real choice at all. This perfectly matches Option (b).
Step 3: Final Answer:
The meaning of Hobson’s choice is option (b).
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