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Difficulty: MediumIdioms and Idiomatic Expressions

Despite several attempts by the board of directors to reconcile the two executive leaders, the CEO and the Managing Director remain at loggerheads over the strategic direction of the company. Which of the following options best conveys the meaning of the idiomatic expression *at loggerheads* as used in the sentence?

  1. A
    Working in total secrecy to defeat their rivals
  2. In sharp disagreement and persistent conflictAnswer
  3. C
    Physically cutting down trees for timber production
  4. D
    In complete harmony and mutual agreement

Answer

In sharp disagreement and persistent conflict
The idiom 'at loggerheads' means to be involved in a strong dispute, quarrel, or stubborn disagreement with someone. In the context of the sentence, the phrase 'despite several attempts to reconcile' reinforces that the two leaders are in persistent conflict.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the sentence context surrounding the idiomatic expression
The phrase 'despite several attempts... to reconcile' indicates an ongoing state of conflict or dispute between the two individuals.
Contextual clues in JAMB idiom questions reveal whether the situation is positive, negative, or adversarial.
2
Determine the figurative meaning of the idiom 'at loggerheads'
The idiom 'at loggerheads' figuratively means to be in strong, head-to-head dispute or quarrel with someone.
Idioms cannot be decoded literally from their component words; their established figurative meaning must be applied.
3
Select the option that matches this figurative meaning
The option stating 'In sharp disagreement and persistent conflict' accurately conveys this meaning.
It directly reflects the adversarial relationship established by both context and definition.

Key Concept

Idiomatic Interpretation in Context
Estimated Time:50s
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Topics

Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions

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