In the following question, out of the four given alternatives, choose the option that best expresses the meaning of the idiom "on tenterhooks", that is, the state of being extremely nervous, worried, or waiting anxiously for something to happen or be decided.

Introduction / Context:
The idiom "on tenterhooks" is a common expression in English used in newspapers, novels, and examinations. This question tests your understanding of idiomatic language by asking you to select the option that correctly conveys its meaning. Recognising idioms is important for reading comprehension as well as for accurate spoken and written expression.

Given Data / Assumptions:
- Target idiom: "on tenterhooks".
- Options given:
- Flattery.
- In a disorganized manner.
- In anxious suspense.
- Speak quickly.
- We assume a general reading comprehension context where someone is emotionally tense while waiting for an outcome such as exam results or an important decision.

Concept / Approach:
"On tenterhooks" historically refers to cloth stretched tightly on hooks (tenterhooks) while drying. From this physical image of being stretched tight, the figurative meaning developed: being extremely tense, nervous, or in a state of anxious waiting. When someone says, "We were on tenterhooks waiting for the result," they mean they were in great suspense and worry, not that they were flattering, disorganized, or talking fast.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall or infer the meaning of the idiom. It is associated with strong tension and anxiety while waiting.Step 2: Check option "Flattery". Flattery means excessive praise, often insincere. This has no connection with anxiety or waiting.Step 3: Check "In a disorganized manner". This describes the way something is done (without order), not an emotional state of suspense.Step 4: Check "In anxious suspense". This exactly matches the idea of being tense, nervous, and waiting for some result or news.Step 5: Check "Speak quickly". This relates to speed of speech, not to emotional tension caused by uncertainty.Step 6: Therefore, the only option that correctly explains "on tenterhooks" is "In anxious suspense".

Verification / Alternative check:
Consider example sentences: "The students were on tenterhooks while the teacher checked their answer sheets" clearly means they were waiting anxiously. If you replace the idiom with "in anxious suspense", the sentence still makes perfect sense. If you substitute flattery, disorganized manner, or speak quickly, the sentence becomes illogical. This substitution test confirms that the correct meaning is "in anxious suspense".

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- Flattery: expresses praise or complimenting someone, not tension or worry.
- In a disorganized manner: describes lack of order, which is unrelated to emotional suspense.
- Speak quickly: refers to speed of speech, which is not the central idea of the idiom.

Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes guess idiom meanings based on one familiar word inside the phrase, such as "hooks", and imagine something about catching or fastening. Idioms rarely yield their true sense by literal translation. The safest strategy is to learn them in context and memorise their standard meanings. For competitive exams, idioms like "on tenterhooks", "on cloud nine", or "burn the midnight oil" are frequently tested, so it is useful to connect each idiom with a vivid mental image and a short definition in your own words.

Final Answer:
The idiom "on tenterhooks" means being in a state of anxious suspense, so the correct option is "In anxious suspense".