In the following question, out of the four alternatives, select the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the idiom/phrase. At short notice – choose the option that best explains this expression.

Introduction / Context:
This question tests understanding of the common English idiom "at short notice". Idioms are fixed expressions whose meanings are not always obvious from the individual words, and they appear frequently in spoken and written English. Knowing their meanings is essential for comprehension and effective communication.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The idiom given is "At short notice".
• Options provide different possible explanations.
• The correct answer must describe the real meaning, not just interpret the words literally.
• We assume everyday conversational and business contexts where this idiom is commonly used.

Concept / Approach:
"At short notice" means with very little time provided between receiving information or a request and the moment when you must act on it. It highlights the lack of time for planning or preparation. The correct option must capture this idea of limited warning time. Other options are distractors that either invent a different metaphorical meaning or focus on unrelated ideas like danger, leaks, or job termination.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall common sentences with this idiom, such as "She agreed to help at short notice" or "The meeting was called at short notice". Step 2: In both examples, the sense is that there was little time to plan or get ready before the event. Step 3: Option A states, "With little warning or time for preparation." This matches the meaning exactly. Step 4: Option B, "To ignore something important at your own peril," describes a different idea about neglect and risk, not timing. Step 5: Option C, "To notice a small leak which can sink a ship," is a metaphor for small problems, but this is not the meaning of "at short notice". Step 6: Option D, "Inform somebody that they are fired from a job," is about dismissal and unrelated to time available for preparation. Step 7: Therefore, Option A is the correct explanation.

Verification / Alternative check:
Test the idiom in context: "The event was organised at short notice." It would mean that the event was arranged quickly and that people did not have much time to prepare. Replacing the idiom with Option A gives "The event was organised with little warning or time for preparation," which preserves the meaning. Trying the other options produces sentences that are clearly wrong in meaning. This confirms that Option A correctly captures the sense of the idiom.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option B: Introduces the idea of ignoring something important, which is not related to short time or sudden arrangements. Option C: Talks about a small leak and a ship, a different metaphor sometimes used in other proverbs, but not connected to this idiom. Option D: Describes firing someone from a job, which may sometimes happen suddenly, but the phrase "at short notice" itself does not specifically refer to firing.

Common Pitfalls:
Some students may try to interpret idioms literally, focusing on the word "notice" and thinking of a written notice for serious things like job termination. This can mislead them toward Option D. Others may not know the idiom at all and guess based on random association. The best way to handle idioms in exams is to learn them in context, with example sentences, so their meaning becomes clear and natural. Creating personal flashcards with idiom definitions and sample uses can be especially effective.

Final Answer:
The idiom "At short notice" means with little warning or time for preparation.