In the following question, out of the given four alternatives, select the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the Idiom/Phrase: "Catch 22".

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: A Particular situation in which one cannot do anything

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This idiom question is based on the famous expression "Catch 22," originally popularised by Joseph Heller's novel of the same name. The phrase has now entered general English to describe a particular type of frustrating situation in which there is no way to win because the rules or conditions are self contradictory.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Idiom: "Catch 22."
  • Options offer different types of situations: helpless, nearly winning, successful, or timely.
  • The question asks for the meaning of this fixed expression in everyday use.



Concept / Approach:
A "Catch 22" is a no win or paradoxical situation where you cannot solve a problem because the solution itself depends on a condition that cannot be met without already having the solution. In simple exam language, it can be described as a particular situation in which one cannot do anything or cannot escape because of a circular set of rules. Among the options, the one that matches this idea most closely is "A Particular situation in which one cannot do anything."



Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall a classic example: You need experience to get a job, but you need a job to get experience. This is a "Catch 22." Step 2: Recognise that the key idea is being trapped by contradictory conditions, leaving no practical way forward. Step 3: Examine option A: it describes "a particular situation in which one cannot do anything," capturing the idea of being stuck and helpless. Step 4: Check that options B, C, and D all refer to successful or near successful situations, which contradict the negative nature of a "Catch 22." Step 5: Select option A as the correct meaning.



Verification / Alternative check:
In everyday conversation, someone might say: "It's a real Catch 22 — I can't leave my job until I find another one, but I can't find another job because I have no time while working." This clearly shows that they feel stuck and unable to act. Recasting the explanation as "a situation in which I cannot do anything because of conflicting conditions" matches the description in option A.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option B: "Close to winning line" suggests near success, which is opposite to being trapped with no solution. Option C: "Able to achieve the target" clearly indicates success, not helplessness. Option D: "Grabbing the opportunity on time" describes taking advantage of a favourable situation, not a paradox that blocks progress.



Common Pitfalls:
A common mistake is to treat "Catch 22" as just "a very difficult situation." While difficulty is involved, the essence is that the difficulty arises from contradictory rules that make the problem unsolvable. In exams, the simpler paraphrase often emphasises the "no way out" feeling, as in the provided correct option. Remembering the job experience example is a good way to fix the meaning in your mind.



Final Answer:
The idiom "Catch 22" means: A particular situation in which one cannot do anything (a no win, paradoxical situation).


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