Idioms & Phrases – Choose the option that best explains the meaning in context. Sentence: I am sure they will “fight tooth and nail” for their rights.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: with all their might

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
The expression “fight tooth and nail” is a common English idiom used in newspapers, exams, and everyday speech. It describes the intensity and determination with which someone struggles to achieve or defend something important—here, their rights. Understanding such idioms requires focusing on the figurative sense rather than the surface image of teeth and nails.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • The context is a determined struggle for one's rights.
  • The idiom is “fight tooth and nail.”
  • We must select the closest paraphrase that captures effort and determination, not literal combat or specific tactics.


Concept / Approach:
Idioms compress cultural meaning into a vivid image. “Tooth and nail” evokes using every available means, implying total commitment. The expression does not necessarily endorse violence, weaponry, or cowardice; it simply intensifies the idea of striving as hard as possible. Therefore, the right option should reflect maximum effort and resolve.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Identify the idiom's figurative core: absolute determination and strenuous effort.Match to the most direct paraphrase: “with all their might.”Eliminate options focusing on literal weapons or violence (“without any other weapon,” “resorting to violence”).Eliminate options contradicting the idea of courage and persistence (“very cowardly”).


Verification / Alternative check:
Replace the idiom: “I am sure they will fight with all their might for their rights.” The sentence remains natural and preserves the intended meaning. This paraphrase is found widely in standard dictionaries and exam prep keys for idioms questions.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • without any other weapon: Misreads the idiom literally; idioms are figurative.
  • resorting to violence: The idiom is about intensity, not necessarily violence.
  • very cowardly: Opposite of the intended meaning.


Common Pitfalls:
Interpreting the image literally (teeth and nails) or assuming physical violence. The idiom emphasizes total effort, applicable to legal, verbal, or political struggles as well.


Final Answer:
with all their might

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