In the following idiom question, choose the option that best expresses the meaning of the phrase "Invent cock and bull stories".

Introduction / Context:
This question tests your knowledge of the idiomatic phrase "cock and bull stories". The expression is used in English to refer to exaggerated, unbelievable, or completely made up stories that are not meant to be taken seriously. Exams often ask you to interpret such idioms by choosing the option that best captures their real meaning rather than their literal words.

Given Data / Assumptions:
• Idiom: "Invent cock and bull stories". • Options: delightful fables, eco friendly accounts, absurd and unlikely stories, credible tales. • The verb "invent" supports the idea of making something up rather than retelling facts. • The phrase is usually used in negative or critical contexts.

Concept / Approach:
"Cock and bull story" is a traditional idiom meaning a fanciful and unlikely tale, often told to deceive or to entertain with exaggeration. The phrase suggests that the story is so ridiculous that it should not be believed. When you see "invent cock and bull stories", the key is to focus on the idea of creating such absurd and improbable tales. The best option will reflect this sense of unreliability and exaggeration.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1. Recall that "cock and bull story" is commonly used to criticise someone for telling lies or highly doubtful stories. 2. Understand that "invent" strengthens the idea that the stories are made up. 3. Look at the options and identify any phrase that clearly means unbelievable or absurd stories. 4. Option C, "Absurd and unlikely stories", directly matches this idea. 5. Check the other options: "Delightful fables", "Eco friendly accounts", and "Credible tales". 6. Notice that none of these other options include the idea of being unbelievable or ridiculous.

Verification / Alternative check:
Imagine the sentence "He is always inventing cock and bull stories about why he is late." The speaker is clearly complaining about unbelievable excuses, not praising delightful fables or credible explanations. Substitute option C into the sentence: "He is always inventing absurd and unlikely stories about why he is late." The meaning remains the same, which confirms that option C is the correct interpretation of the idiom.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A, "Delightful fables", suggests pleasant imaginative tales and does not carry the negative, unbelievable tone of the original idiom. Option B, "Eco friendly accounts", is completely unrelated to the context and looks like a distractor. Option D, "Credible tales", is the opposite of what the idiom suggests, because "credible" means believable. None of these options correctly convey the sense of unrealistic and ridiculous invention implied by "cock and bull stories".

Common Pitfalls:
A frequent mistake is to misinterpret idioms as positive when they are actually negative or mocking. The words "cock" and "bull" might make learners think of animals and simple stories, leading them to choose an option like delightful fables. Another pitfall is not paying attention to the verb "invent", which hints at making things up. To avoid such errors, learn idioms in full example sentences and notice whether the surrounding tone is positive, neutral, or negative.

Final Answer:
The phrase "Invent cock and bull stories" means to create Absurd and unlikely stories.