Question

Identify the meaning of the idioms or phrases given in italics in the sentence:
In the final hearing of the court case, the advocate handled the cross examination with kid gloves.

• A. very badly
• B. very quickly
• C. very honestly
• D. very cautiously

Hint:

To handle something with 'kid gloves' is the exact opposite of handling it with 'brass knuckles'.
Soft leather gloves represent a gentle, highly cautious, and diplomatic approach to a sensitive issue.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
This question asks for the meaning of the idiom 'with kid gloves' (or 'to handle with kid gloves') used in the context of a legal courtroom.

Step 2: Key Approach:
Evaluate the physical origin of the phrase (soft kid leather used for handling fragile items) to deduce the metaphorical meaning.
Analyze how this delicate care maps to conversational or procedural actions.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:

• Meaning of 'Kid Gloves':
Kid gloves are made from the soft leather of a young goat (a kid).
Historically, these gloves were worn by the wealthy to handle delicate objects without damaging them or getting dirty.
Metaphorically, 'handling someone/something with kid gloves' means dealing with them with extreme tact, gentleness, care, or caution to avoid giving offense, causing damage, or sparking trouble.

• Analyzing the Context:
In a courtroom cross-examination, handling a witness with kid gloves implies being highly careful, gentle, and tactical rather than aggressive.
This is best defined by the adverb 'very cautiously'.
Options A ('very badly'), B ('very quickly'), and C ('very honestly') do not convey the gentle, tactical care implied by the metaphor of soft gloves.


Step 4: Final Answer:
The idiom 'with kid gloves' means handling a situation 'very cautiously'.