Examkin

Question

Difficulty: MediumIdioms and Phrasal Expressions in Context

For years, traditional biographers argued that the poet’s reclusive lifestyle during his later years was a direct result of his failing health. However, recent discoveries of his extensive correspondence with overseas publishers suggest a different story. This correspondence reveals that he remained highly active in literary circles, editing manuscripts and advising young writers until his final weeks. Consequently, the long-held theory that physical decline forced his isolation no longer holds water.

Based on the passage, the phrase "holds water" in the final sentence most nearly means which of the following?

  1. A
    absorbs and retains moisture
  2. B
    retains a physical liquid
  3. is logical and believableAnswer
  4. D
    is proven beyond any doubt

Answer

The phrase "holds water" most nearly means "is logical and believable."
The passage presents new evidence that directly contradicts the traditional biographical theory, showing that the theory is no longer credible. Therefore, saying the theory no longer "holds water" means it is no longer logical and believable.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the target phrase and the subject it describes in the passage.
The phrase "holds water" is used in the negative ("no longer holds water") to describe the "long-held theory that physical decline forced his isolation."
This establishes that the phrase relates to the validity or soundness of a theory.
2
Analyze the context clues surrounding the theory in the passage.
The passage states that the correspondence "suggests a different story" and reveals the poet was actually "highly active," which directly contradicts the theory of forced isolation.
This contradiction indicates that the theory is no longer credible or logical in light of the new evidence.

Key Concept

Idioms and Phrasal Expressions in Context
Estimated Time:1m 30s
Rate this question

Topics

Idioms and Phrasal Expressions in Context

More questions from this topic