In each of the following questions on idioms, choose the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the idiom In the blues.

Introduction / Context:
This idiom question tests your understanding of the phrase In the blues, closely related to expressions like feel blue or have the blues. These expressions are used to describe an emotional state rather than a literal colour. Knowing this idiom helps in understanding dialogues, songs, and literature where colour words are linked to moods.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Idiom: In the blues.• Options describe different emotional or physical conditions.• The question asks for the best expression of the idiom meaning.• We assume conventional English usage where blue is associated with sadness.

Concept / Approach:
In English, the colour blue is often connected with sadness or low spirits. Phrases such as feel blue, have the blues, or be in the blues all express the idea of feeling unhappy or depressed. The idiom does not usually mean wearing blue items or singing, and it does not suggest anger. Therefore, we must choose the explanation that links the phrase to a state of sadness.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall examples like He has been in the blues since he lost his job, where the clear meaning is that he is depressed.Step 2: Evaluate option A Cheerless and depressed, which directly names the emotional state suggested by the idiom.Step 3: Examine option B Violent and angry. These emotions are intense and outwardly aggressive, not associated with the quiet sadness indicated by blue.Step 4: Consider option C Wearing blue badges, which interprets the phrase literally, but idioms are rarely literal.Step 5: Look at option D Singing sad songs. Although the blues is a music style often linked with sadness, the idiom in the blues is about feeling low, not specifically about singing.Step 6: Conclude that option A is the best match for the idiom.

Verification / Alternative check:
Think of similar phrases: He is feeling blue and She has the blues both mean they are unhappy. No one would say He is in the blues to mean that he is violent or wearing blue objects. While blues music is associated with sorrow, everyday usage of the idiom focuses on the internal mood. Therefore, Cheerless and depressed accurately summarises the idiomatic meaning.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Violent and angry describe an explosive, outward focused state that does not match the quieter, more internal sadness suggested by blue. Wearing blue badges is a literal interpretation, ignoring the idiomatic nature of the phrase. Singing sad songs focuses on a specific activity rather than the emotional condition and is too narrow even though some connection with blues music exists.

Common Pitfalls:
Some candidates may be misled by their knowledge of the musical genre blues and choose an option related to singing. Others may translate the phrase word by word and imagine something to do with colour rather than mood. It is helpful to remember that many languages use colour metaphors, and in English blue is strongly tied to sadness, which guides you to the correct choice.

Final Answer:
The idiom In the blues means feeling cheerless and depressed.