English Idioms — Meaning in Context Choose the BEST meaning. Sentence: He resigned the post “of his own accord.”

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: voluntarily and willingly

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
“Of one’s own accord” is a fixed phrase in formal English meaning that an action was undertaken voluntarily, without being forced, pressured, or formally ordered by others. It is often used in official or journalistic accounts of resignations, withdrawals, or confessions.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Action: resignation from a post.
  • Phrase: “of his own accord.”
  • We must choose the option that emphasizes voluntariness.


Concept / Approach:

The key concept is absence of compulsion. “Voluntarily and willingly” states this directly. “According to his convenience” can be voluntary but suggests self-serving timing rather than freedom from pressure. “According to his judgement” refers to reasoning, not compulsion. “Which he liked” is irrelevant to the idiom’s core meaning.


Step-by-Step Solution:

1) Identify the idiom’s legalistic nuance: no coercion.2) Match with the option that explicitly expresses voluntariness.3) Rule out options about preference or judgment that do not address compulsion.


Verification / Alternative check:

Paraphrase: “He resigned voluntarily.” This equals “of his own accord.”


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

which he liked: Preference, not voluntariness.according to his convenience: Focuses on suitability of time, not absence of pressure.according to his judgement: Decision basis, not compulsion.


Common Pitfalls:

Confusing “why he did it” (judgement/convenience) with “how he did it” (voluntarily). The idiom concerns the latter.


Final Answer:

voluntarily and willingly

More Questions from Idioms and Phrases

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Join Discussion