In each of the following questions, an idiom or phrase is given. Choose the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the idiom. Wet behind the ears

Introduction:
Idioms often use vivid images to describe people and situations. The expression "wet behind the ears" is a colourful way to talk about a person's level of experience. This question tests whether you know that it refers to inexperience rather than any literal wetness or hearing problem.

Given Data / Assumptions:
- Idiom: "wet behind the ears".
- Options: Skillful, Young and rich with experience, Young and without much experience, Hearing impaired.
- We assume the idiom is being used in its common figurative sense, not literally.

Concept / Approach:
The idiom "wet behind the ears" comes from the idea of a newborn whose ears are still wet, symbolising someone who has just started out and has not yet gained real-world knowledge. Therefore, it describes a person who is young, new to a field, or lacking in practical experience. The correct option must include both youth or newness and the absence of experience, not skill or expertise.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall the typical usage: "He is still wet behind the ears" often describes a new employee or beginner.Step 2: Understand that it is usually slightly critical or teasing, implying that the person still has a lot to learn.Step 3: Look at option C, "Young and without much experience". This matches the idiom exactly.Step 4: Check option B, "Young and rich with experience". This contradicts the idea of inexperience because "rich with experience" means very experienced.Step 5: Note that "Skillful" and "Hearing impaired" do not relate to inexperience at all, so they cannot be correct.

Verification / Alternative check:
Consulting any idiom collection or example sentences shows the same meaning. For instance, "Although he is talented, he is still a little wet behind the ears" suggests he lacks experience. There is no connection with physical hearing problems or high skill levels. The phrase always points to being new or inexperienced.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A, "Skillful", is the opposite of what the idiom implies; a skillful person is usually experienced. Option B, "Young and rich with experience", mixes youth with high experience, which conflicts with the core idea of inexperience. Option D, "Hearing impaired", misinterprets "ears" literally and is completely unrelated to the figurative meaning. Only option C expresses that the person is young and lacks much experience.

Common Pitfalls:
Some learners may focus too literally on the word "ears" and think it is about hearing problems. Others may be confused by the presence of "young" in more than one option and choose the wrong one without noticing the difference between "rich with experience" and "without much experience". To avoid such traps, always look at the entire phrase and recall how it is used in real conversations or written texts.

Final Answer:
The idiom "wet behind the ears" means young and without much experience.