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Difficulty: MediumIdioms and Idiomatic Expressions

During the ministerial briefing on fiscal policy, the trade union leader and the cabinet member locked horns over the proposed wage cap.

Which of the following best expresses the meaning of the idiomatic expression locked horns as used in the sentence?

  1. engaged in a fierce conflict or disagreementAnswer
  2. B
    physically entangled animal horns during a demonstration
  3. C
    formally signed an accord to freeze wage increases
  4. D
    locked the doors of the conference hall to prevent media access

Answer

The idiomatic expression 'locked horns' means to engage in a fierce conflict or disagreement.
The expression 'locked horns' originates from animals engaging in combat by locking their horns together. In context, it figuratively denotes entering into a direct, intense dispute or argument.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the sentence
The context involves a union leader and a cabinet member holding opposing views regarding a proposed wage cap during an official briefing.
Understanding the situational context helps determine whether the expression describes agreement, conflict, or physical action.
2
Interpret the idiomatic expression 'locked horns'
Derived from animals such as bulls or stags interlocking horns when fighting, the idiom figuratively means to clash, argue, or enter into combat with someone.
Idioms must be evaluated figuratively rather than through the literal definitions of their individual words.

Key Concept

Figurative Interpretation of Idiomatic Expressions
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Topics

Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions

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