In this idiom question, choose the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the English expression “take the bull by the horns”.

Introduction / Context:
Idioms are fixed expressions whose meanings cannot always be guessed from the literal meanings of the individual words. The phrase “take the bull by the horns” is a popular English idiom used in newspapers, speeches and everyday conversations. Exam questions often ask you to choose the option that best explains such idioms in simple language. Understanding this idiom helps you describe bold and decisive behaviour in difficult situations.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The idiom given is “take the bull by the horns”.
• You must choose the option that gives the closest meaning.
• The options are: crush something with a heavy hand, grapple the situation courageously, close your eyes and attack the bull, take defensive measures to deal with a crisis.

Concept / Approach:
The central image of this idiom is a bull, which is strong, dangerous and difficult to control. Holding such a bull by its horns suggests facing the danger directly and bravely instead of running away or hiding. Therefore, the idiom is used when a person tackles a difficult problem or crisis in a direct, bold and determined manner. The correct option must capture this sense of brave confrontation, not cruelty, panic or mere defence.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Visualise the image of a person taking a bull firmly by its horns, which symbolises facing danger head-on. Step 2: Translate that image into abstract meaning: to confront a problem or difficulty directly and bravely. Step 3: Check option a) “crush something with a heavy hand”. This suggests harsh or oppressive treatment, which is not what the idiom emphasises. Step 4: Check option b) “grapple the situation courageously”. This exactly matches the idea of dealing with a difficult situation boldly and directly. Step 5: Check option c) “close your eyes and attack the bull”. Closing your eyes suggests blindness or recklessness, not wise courage. Step 6: Check option d) “take defensive measures to deal with a crisis”. This reflects a defensive, protective approach, whereas the idiom suggests active, direct confrontation. Step 7: Conclude that option b) is the closest and most accurate explanation.

Verification / Alternative check:
You can verify the meaning by placing the idiom in a sentence: “Instead of delaying the decision, the manager decided to take the bull by the horns and announce the tough policy.” This clearly means he dealt with the difficult situation bravely and directly. Replacing it with “crush something with a heavy hand” or “take defensive measures” does not convey the correct idea. Similarly, “closing your eyes and attacking” sounds rash, not intelligently courageous. Therefore, the explanation “grapple the situation courageously” best mirrors real usage.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
“Crush something with a heavy hand” focuses on excessive force or cruelty, which is not the core idea of this idiom. “Close your eyes and attack the bull” introduces the idea of blindness or foolishness, which the idiom does not imply. “Take defensive measures to deal with a crisis” emphasises protection and caution rather than bold, direct action. All three distract from the positive sense of brave initiative expressed by the idiom.

Common Pitfalls:
A common error is to interpret idioms too literally and think they must involve actual bulls, animals or physical fighting. Another mistake is to choose an option that sounds dramatic but fails to capture the correct emotional tone. Remember that idioms in exam questions almost always have a well-established figurative meaning that you can find in dictionaries. Regular reading of good newspapers and noting idioms in context will strengthen your ability to recognise such meanings instantly.

Final Answer:
“Take the bull by the horns” means grapple the situation courageously.