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Question

Difficulty: HardIdioms and Idiomatic Expressions

During the regulatory board review, the executive was warned that his aggressive tax avoidance strategies were sailing close to the wind. Which of the following options best conveys the meaning of the underlined idiomatic expression?

  1. Taking risks that come dangerously close to breaking the law or acting immorallyAnswer
  2. B
    Navigating maritime shipping vessels through unpredictable weather conditions
  3. C
    Complying fully and meticulously with all established financial regulations
  4. D
    Investing capital heavily in foreign maritime transport enterprises

Answer

Taking risks that come dangerously close to breaking the law or acting immorally
The idiomatic expression 'sailing close to the wind' means to act on the verge of what is allowed, legal, or safe. In the sentence context, aggressive tax avoidance strategies border on illegal practice, making this interpretation correct.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the sentence
The executive is being reviewed by a regulatory board regarding aggressive tax avoidance strategies.
Contextual clues indicate that the action involved is questionable and subject to scrutiny.
2
Determine the figurative meaning of the idiom 'sailing close to the wind'
The idiom originates from seamanship (sailing almost directly into the wind, which is difficult and risky) and figuratively means acting on the verge of illegal, improper, or dangerous behavior.
Idioms must be understood figuratively rather than literally.
3
Select the option that matches this figurative meaning
The option stating 'Taking risks that come dangerously close to breaking the law or acting immorally' correctly matches the idiom's meaning.
It accurately reflects the risk-taking and borderline illegality implied in the sentence.

Key Concept

Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions
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Topics

Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions

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