In the idiom "to show the cloven hoof," the phrase "cloven hoof" is used to suggest what?

Introduction / Context:
Many English idioms are rooted in religious or mythological imagery. The phrase “cloven hoof” originates from traditional depictions of the devil or demonic figures, who are often shown with split hooves. In modern idiomatic usage, this imagery is used to suggest hidden evil or bad intentions being exposed. This question asks you to identify the meaning of the idiom, not its literal sense, which is essential for comprehension in literature and everyday language.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The idiom is “cloven hoof,” often used in the phrase “to show the cloven hoof.”
• The options include difficult situations, evil intentions, winning approval, additional success and change of mind.
• We assume familiarity with idiomatic meanings rather than strictly literal meanings.
• The expression is associated with the idea of the devil revealing his presence.
• The correct answer should relate to hidden wickedness becoming apparent.

Concept / Approach:
The idiom “to show the cloven hoof” means to reveal one's true, usually evil or dishonest, character after hiding it for some time. It comes from the idea that the devil might appear in disguise but eventually the cloven hoof—his telltale sign—shows and reveals his identity. Therefore, the phrase suggests that a person who seemed good or harmless is now showing their bad side or evil intention. It does not refer to difficulty, success or approval, so those options can be ruled out.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that cloven hooves are traditionally associated with the devil in folklore and religious art.Step 2: Understand that the idiom “to show the cloven hoof” means to reveal one's hidden wicked nature or evil plan.Step 3: Examine option B, which states “The evil intention or true wicked nature of a person becoming visible.” This closely matches the idiomatic meaning.Step 4: Examine option A, which talks about a difficult situation; it has no link to the image of the hoof.Step 5: Examine option C, “Win approval,” which expresses a positive outcome and does not fit the negative connotation of the idiom.Step 6: Examine options D and E, which refer to additional success and change of mind; these are unrelated to exposing evil or dishonesty. Therefore, option B is correct.

Verification / Alternative check:
Look at example sentences using the idiom: “He seemed kind at first, but later he showed the cloven hoof by cheating his partners,” or “The politician's remarks showed the cloven hoof and revealed his prejudice.” In these contexts, the expression clearly refers to hidden bad intentions becoming visible. Reference books on idioms define “to show the cloven hoof” as revealing one's evil or malicious character. None of the other options in the question align with this usage. This confirms that option B correctly expresses the meaning of the idiom.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Option A describes a difficult situation but does not convey any sense of evil or hidden nature.
• Option C suggests winning approval, which is positive and unrelated to the negative image of the cloven hoof.
• Option D talks about additional success after an initial victory, which again carries a positive tone.
• Option E refers to changing one's mind, which is neutral and has no connection to the devilish imagery in the idiom.

Common Pitfalls:
Because many idioms are not transparent, learners might guess meanings based on individual words or on vague impressions. With “cloven hoof,” someone unfamiliar with cultural references may not associate it with the devil and might choose any answer that sounds serious. To avoid this, it helps to study idioms in groups and remember memorable example sentences. When an idiom has strong imagery, like the devil's hoof, connecting that image with the meaning of hidden evil can make it easier to recall in exams and real life reading.

Final Answer:
The correct answer is The evil intention or true wicked nature of a person becoming visible, which is the meaning of the idiom “cloven hoof.”