Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: Uncouth in appearance or behaviour
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
The idiom "wild and woolly" is often used to describe something rough, untamed, or lacking refinement, whether it is a person, a frontier town, or a chaotic situation. It conveys an image of disorder, uncivilised manners, or unpolished behaviour. This question checks whether you can connect this colourful expression with the correct abstract meaning needed for exam level English questions.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
The word "wild" clearly points to something uncontrolled, untamed, or uncivilised. "Woolly" adds the sense of being shaggy, rough, or unkempt, like an animal with thick, messy wool. Together, "wild and woolly" paints a vivid picture of rough appearance and behaviour, often applied to early frontier towns, chaotic markets, or people who are not polished in their manners. The correct option must capture this sense of being uncouth or rough, rather than perfect, moderate, or duty ignoring in a narrow sense.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Note the clear negative tone of the words "wild" and "woolly", both suggesting lack of refinement.
Step 2: Combine the images to form an overall picture of something rough, uncivilised, and possibly disorganised.
Step 3: Compare this mental picture with the options provided.
Step 4: Option A, "Uncouth in appearance or behaviour", directly matches the idea of rough, unrefined conduct.
Step 5: Make sure that the other options, which talk about extremes, perfection, or ignoring obligations, do not fit this combined image.
Verification / Alternative check:
Consider example sentences like "In its early days, the town was wild and woolly, full of rough characters and little law" or "His wild and woolly manners shocked the formal guests." Substituting "uncouth in appearance or behaviour" in place of "wild and woolly" keeps the meaning intact. Trying the other options makes the sentences sound wrong or forced, confirming that Option A is the correct choice.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Common Pitfalls:
Some learners may focus on "wild" alone and think only of excitement or freedom, selecting options related to extremes or enthusiasm. Others might treat "woolly" as soft and comforting rather than rough and shaggy. To avoid such mistakes, you should consider how idioms are traditionally used and remember that combined words often create a stronger, more specific image than each word alone. Reading example sentences and remembering typical usage contexts helps solidify the correct meaning.
Final Answer:
The idiom "wild and woolly" refers to something or someone rough, uncivilised, or unrefined, so the correct option is Uncouth in appearance or behaviour.
Discussion & Comments