Question

Difficulty: EasyInferring Vocabulary and Idiomatic Expressions in Context

In an investigative report examining dark-sky preservation in the Coquimbo Region of Chile, a science journalist notes: "Para salvaguardar la pureza de nuestros cielos nocturnos frente al avance de la contaminación lumínica, la comunidad astronómica y el gobierno municipal deben trabajar codo a codo en la redacción de la nueva ordenanza."

Which of the following best defines the expression "trabajar codo a codo" as used in the passage?

  1. A
    To stand physically side by side in a crowded observational facility
  2. B
    To compete aggressively for administrative control over municipal ordinances
  3. To collaborate closely and work in partnership toward a shared goalAnswer
  4. D
    To divide responsibilities strictly so that both parties operate independently without communication

Answer

The expression "trabajar codo a codo" means to collaborate closely and work in partnership toward a shared goal.
In the excerpt, the author points out that scientists and local government must join forces to draft effective environmental protections against light pollution. The Spanish idiom "trabajar codo a codo" figuratively means to work side by side in close, coordinated collaboration.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the contextual setting and the subjects involved in the action.
The subjects are "la comunidad astronómica y el gobierno municipal" who need to protect night skies by drafting a new ordinance.
Understanding who is performing the action and the desired outcome clarifies the nature of their relationship.
2
Infer the figurative meaning of the highlighted idiomatic expression "trabajar codo a codo".
The phrase metaphorically describes two groups working side by side in close unison rather than literally touching elbows.
Idioms in journalistic texts often draw on physical imagery to convey abstract social and professional cooperation.

Key Concept

Inferring Idiomatic Expressions in Journalistic Context
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