In this idiom based English question, choose the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the idiom “Smell a rat”.

Introduction / Context:
This question tests understanding of an English idiom, “Smell a rat”. Idioms often arise from vivid images, but their real meanings are figurative rather than literal. Examinations use such items to check whether a learner can connect the figurative sense with a simple explanation, which is an important skill in reading editorials, novels, and conversations.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The idiom is “Smell a rat”.
• We must select the option that correctly explains its figurative meaning.
• Options include ideas about suspicion, actual smell, and even “something right”.

Concept / Approach:
The idiom “smell a rat” does not literally refer to a physical rat. Instead, it refers to a feeling that something is wrong, dishonest, or hidden. It suggests that even if there is no clear proof, a person has a strong suspicion that something is not as it appears. Therefore, the correct option must express the idea of suspecting something wrong, not just smelling an animal or noticing a pleasant situation.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Think of the image used in the idiom. If there is a hidden rat, there is likely something dirty, dangerous, or unpleasant. Step 2: Translate this picture into a mental feeling: a sense that something is wrong or someone is hiding the truth. Step 3: Read Option A: “Suspect something wrong”. This directly captures the meaning of the idiom and fits many real life uses. Step 4: Read Option B and C, which mention burning or rotten rats. These are literal and not commonly used idioms. Step 5: Read Option D, “Smell something right”, which is the opposite of what the idiom implies.

Verification / Alternative check:
In ordinary usage, a person might say “I smell a rat in this deal” when they feel that a business offer is dishonest or that someone is trying to cheat them. There may be no clear evidence, but there is a strong suspicion. In all such contexts, the sense is always negative and linked to doubt. This supports the choice “Suspect something wrong” as the best paraphrase.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option B: “Smell a burned rat” is not a standard English expression and has no recognised idiomatic meaning. Option C: “Smell a rotten rat” focuses only on bad smell and still fails to represent the figurative idea of suspicion. Option D: “Smell something right” suggests a positive feeling, which is the opposite of doubt or suspicion.

Common Pitfalls:
Some learners overthink the image and pick options involving rotten or burned rats, thinking that unpleasant smell automatically implies the idiom. However, idioms must be matched by known usage, not just by imagination. It is important to learn common idioms as fixed expressions with standard meanings. When in doubt, mentally place the idiom into a sentence and see which paraphrase fits best.

Final Answer:
The idiom “Smell a rat” means to feel that something is wrong or dishonest. Hence the correct answer is Suspect something wrong.