Idiomatic Collocation – Choose the option that BEST explains the highlighted phrase. Sentence: “He did me a good turn by recommending me for the post of Vice Principal.”
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Areturned my kindness
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Bdid an act of kindness
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Cimproved my prospects
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Dbecame suddenly good
Answer
Correct Answer: did an act of kindness
Explanation
Introduction / Context:“Do someone a good turn” is a fixed English collocation meaning to do someone a favor or kind action. The sentence directly names the favor: recommending a person for a post. The phrase is neutral about reciprocity; it need not be a return favor.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Highlighted phrase: “did me a good turn”.
- Example of the favor: recommendation for a role.
- We must select the closest paraphrase.
Concept / Approach:Among options, “did an act of kindness” exactly matches the collocation. “Returned my kindness” adds an unnecessary notion of repayment; “improved my prospects” is a result, not the idiom’s meaning; “became suddenly good” is incorrect.
Step-by-Step Solution:Define expression: a good turn = a favor.Relate to context: recommendation is indeed a favor.Choose “did an act of kindness.”
Verification / Alternative check:Substitute: “He did me a favor by recommending me …” The sentence remains precise.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- returned my kindness: implies earlier kindness; not stated.
- improved my prospects: describes effect, not idiomatic meaning.
- became suddenly good: not the sense of “good turn.”
Common Pitfalls:Confusing meaning with outcome; the idiom labels the action itself as a favor.
Final Answer:did an act of kindness