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Difficulty: MediumIdioms and Idiomatic Expressions

During the parliamentary debate on fiscal policy, the finance minister and the opposition leader continued to lock horns over the proposed tax reforms. Which of the following best expresses the meaning of the underlined idiomatic expression?

  1. engage in a prolonged dispute or conflictAnswer
  2. B
    blow ceremonial instruments together to mark an agreement
  3. C
    collaborate smoothly to pass the legislation quickly
  4. D
    resign from their legislative positions in protest

Answer

The idiomatic expression 'lock horns' means to engage in a disagreement, dispute, or conflict.
The idiomatic phrase 'lock horns' derives from the imagery of animals with horns locking them together in combat. Figuratively, it means to enter into a heated argument, debate, or conflict with someone.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the underlined idiomatic expression in the sentence
The expression is 'lock horns'.
Contextual analysis requires focusing on the figurative meaning of the specific idiom.
2
Analyze the context of a parliamentary debate between political opponents
The context implies conflict or argumentation over policy.
Debates between political rivals typically involve opposing viewpoints.
3
Select the option that reflects the figurative meaning of conflict
The option stating 'engage in a prolonged dispute or conflict' correctly defines 'lock horns'.
The phrase originates from animals clashing their horns together during a fight, symbolizing conflict.

Key Concept

Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions
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Topics

Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions

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