In the following English idiom question, the expression "Hornet's nest" is given. Out of the four alternatives provided, select the option that best expresses the correct meaning and everyday usage sense of this idiom.

Introduction / Context:
This question assesses the candidate's understanding of English idioms, specifically the expression "hornet's nest". Idioms are fixed phrases whose overall meaning is different from the literal meanings of the individual words. In competitive exams, idioms are frequently tested because they reflect a deeper familiarity with natural, idiomatic English. Here, the aim is to interpret what "stirring up a hornet's nest" or being "in a hornet's nest" implies in terms of real life situations.

Given Data / Assumptions:
- The idiom given is "Hornet's nest".
- Four alternative meanings are provided: a troublesome situation, to try utmost, to ascertain, and to make peace.
- Only one option correctly conveys the figurative meaning of the idiom as used in standard English.
- We assume general conversational and written English usage.

Concept / Approach:
A hornet is an aggressive stinging insect, and a hornet's nest would literally be a place filled with many hornets. If someone disturbs such a nest, they would face intense trouble, confusion, or attack. Idiomatically, "a hornet's nest" refers to a situation filled with anger, controversy, or hostility that has been provoked or disturbed. Therefore, we look for an option that suggests a problematic or dangerous situation rather than effort, clarity, or peace.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall the common usage of the idiom in sentences such as "His remarks stirred up a hornet's nest among the workers". Step 2: Interpret this usage. When someone "stirs up a hornet's nest", they create trouble, hostility, and conflict. Step 3: Evaluate option A, "A troublesome situation". This directly matches the idea of facing a lot of trouble or conflict and fits the idiom well. Step 4: Consider option B, "To try utmost". This relates to making maximum effort and has no connection with hornets or trouble; therefore it is unrelated. Step 5: Consider option C, "To ascertain". This means to find out or determine something and is not associated with conflict or danger. Step 6: Consider option D, "To make peace". This is the opposite of creating trouble, so it cannot represent the meaning of the idiom. Step 7: Because only option A captures the idea of serious trouble, it is the correct answer.

Verification / Alternative check:
Another way to verify is to imagine the literal scenario of disturbing an actual hornet's nest. The result would not be calm, peace, or careful investigation, but rather chaos, fear, and pain. Many dictionaries define the idiom as "a situation that is complicated, full of danger, anger, or difficulties, especially one that has been provoked by someone’s actions". This aligns perfectly with "a troublesome situation". By contrast, none of the other options include the sense of hostility or danger that is central to the idiom.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- "To try utmost" is about making maximum effort, which does not involve trouble or conflict in its core meaning.
- "To ascertain" means to find out or establish the truth of something; it is about clarity, not about provoking hostility.
- "To make peace" implies resolving conflict, which is the opposite of stirring up more trouble, and therefore cannot match "hornet's nest".

Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes guess idiom meanings based on partial familiarity with similar expressions or by focusing only on one of the words. Because "hornet" is an insect and "nest" appears in many phrases, some candidates might overthink and link it with home, effort, or protection. Another mistake is to ignore the negative connotation of the idiom and select a neutral or positive option like "to make peace". To avoid such errors, it is important to remember that idioms typically have a fixed, conventional meaning that must be learned from usage, reading, and listening, not constructed from literal word by word translation.

Final Answer:
The idiom "Hornet's nest" refers to a troublesome situation.