In the following question, out of the four alternatives, select the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the given idiom/phrase.\n\nPut one's foot down

Introduction / Context:
This question tests your understanding of idiomatic expressions in English. The phrase given is “put one's foot down.” Idioms are fixed expressions whose meanings cannot always be guessed from the literal meanings of the individual words. Knowing such idioms is essential for fluent comprehension and natural expression.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Idiom: put one's foot down.
• Options include ideas of giving up, learning to dance, being firm, starting a journey, and reacting angrily.
• We must identify which explanation best matches the established meaning of the idiom.

Concept / Approach:
In everyday English, “to put one's foot down” means to be firm or resolute about a decision, especially when there is some opposition or when someone is disobeying. It often implies that the person will not allow a situation to continue and has taken a strong stand. It does not literally refer to dancing, walking, or physical movement.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall the usual context of this idiom, such as parents putting their foot down when children misbehave.Step 2: Recognise that it suggests strictness and firmness about rules or decisions.Step 3: Check option C: “Adopt a firm policy when faced with opposition or disobedience.” This matches the idea of being firm and unyielding.Step 4: Eliminate options that refer to unrelated ideas such as dancing, giving up, or simply being angry.Step 5: Select option C as the best explanation.

Verification / Alternative check:
Use the idiom in a sample sentence: “When the children refused to do their homework, their mother put her foot down.” This clearly means she became strict and enforced the rules, not that she gave up, learned to dance, or started a journey. When we rephrase that sentence as “She adopted a firm policy when faced with disobedience,” it conveys the same meaning as the idiom, confirming option C.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A: “Give up easily without a fight” is the opposite of firmness and does not match the idiom.

Option B: “Learn to dance in spite of being clumsy” is a literal misinterpretation of “foot” and has nothing to do with firmness.

Option D: “Take the first step of a very long difficult journey” refers more to beginning something, not being strict or firm.

Option E: “React angrily without thinking” describes impulsive anger, which is not an essential part of putting one's foot down; firmness can be calm and controlled.

Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes misinterpret idioms by focusing on individual words like “foot” or “down” and inventing meanings related to walking, dancing, or falling. The correct approach is to learn idioms as complete units. Another pitfall is to equate firmness with uncontrolled anger. However, putting one's foot down means being firm and decisive, not necessarily shouting or losing temper.

Final Answer:
Adopt a firm policy when faced with opposition or disobedience