In the following idiom and phrase question, select the option that best explains the meaning of the proverb "Rome was not built in a day".

Introduction / Context:
The proverb "Rome was not built in a day" is a well known English idiom used in motivational speeches, textbooks, and everyday conversation. It refers to the idea that important achievements take time and persistent effort. Examinations often include this idiom because it teaches both language and life lessons. In this question, the learner must identify the explanation that captures the central meaning of the proverb rather than focusing on literal historical details.

Given Data / Assumptions:
- The idiom under consideration is "Rome was not built in a day". - The question asks for the meaning, not the historical fact. - Four possible explanations are provided. - Only one option correctly expresses the general lesson behind the proverb.

Concept / Approach:
Idioms and proverbs usually cannot be translated word for word; their figurative meaning must be understood. Rome represents a great and powerful city, symbolising large achievements such as success, knowledge, or strong character. The phrase "not built in a day" suggests that such greatness is the result of long term dedication rather than quick results. Therefore the correct option should emphasize the need for time and patience in building anything significant, whether it is a career, a nation, or a skill.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Focus on the figurative sense. The sentence does not simply describe construction history; it offers advice about expectations. Step 2: Option a says, "It takes time to create great things." This matches the idea that great projects, like the city of Rome, require prolonged effort. Step 3: Option b, "You have to win many wars to build an empire", brings in the concept of war, which is not part of the proverb lesson, and narrows the meaning unnecessarily. Step 4: Option c, "A task done hurriedly fails completely", talks about failure due to haste. The proverb does not say that quick efforts always fail; it simply says that greatness cannot be achieved instantly. Step 5: Option d, "Building anything worth while requires skill", highlights the role of skill but ignores the key factor of time and persistence that the proverb stresses. Step 6: Since only option a highlights the importance of time in creating something great, it is the correct answer.

Verification / Alternative check:
To verify, imagine how the proverb would be used in real life. A teacher might say "Rome was not built in a day" when students feel impatient about learning a difficult subject. The message is that steady study will pay off over time. Pairing this with option a, which focuses on the time needed to create great things, confirms the match. None of the other options would sound natural in this situation. One would not say that many wars must be won or that haste always leads to failure; the emphasis is clearly on patience and perseverance.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option b is wrong because it introduces wars and empires, which are not part of the figurative message of the proverb. Option c is wrong because it makes a stronger claim about hurried tasks always failing, which is not stated or implied in the proverb. Option d is wrong because although skill can be useful, the proverb focuses on time and ongoing effort, not primarily on ability.

Common Pitfalls:
Many learners misinterpret proverbs by taking them too literally or by adding extra ideas that are not present. Some may think that any option mentioning empires or building must be correct because of the reference to Rome, while others may focus on the negative tone of failure rather than on the neutral message of patience. To avoid these pitfalls, always ask: what advice is this proverb usually used to give, and which option captures that advice most directly and simply.

Final Answer:
The correct explanation of the proverb is It takes time to create great things.