In the following sentence, an idiom is highlighted. Choose the most suitable meaning of the phrasal verb "broke out of" as used in the sentence. Sentence: The prisoners broke out of jail when the guards were not looking.

Introduction / Context:
This question tests your understanding of the phrasal verb "break out of" in the context of prisons and confinement. The sentence describes prisoners and a moment when guards were not looking. You must choose the meaning that best fits this situation and matches the usual use of the phrasal verb.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Phrasal verb: "broke out of".
• Context: prisoners in a jail and inattentive guards.
• Option A: Raised.
• Option B: Surrenderd (intended "surrendered").
• Option C: Escaped.
• Option D: Perpetuated.

Concept / Approach:
The phrasal verb "break out of" means to escape from a place where one is confined, such as a jail, prison or locked room. It implies that someone manages to get out, usually secretly or suddenly. It does not mean to raise, surrender or continue something. Therefore, "escaped" is the only option that correctly expresses the meaning of "broke out of" in this sentence.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Identify the situation: prisoners and a jail. The most logical event linked with prisoners and guards not looking is that the prisoners took the chance to escape.Step 2: Recall that "to break out of prison" is a very common expression meaning to escape from prison.Step 3: Examine option C, "Escaped". This is exactly what prisoners do when they break out of jail.Step 4: Examine option A, "Raised". This relates to lifting or increasing something, not to leaving a place of confinement.Step 5: Examine option B, "Surrenderd". Surrender means giving up or turning oneself in to authorities, the opposite of escaping. Option D, "Perpetuated", means caused to continue and is not related to physical movement or escape.

Verification / Alternative check:
Replace "broke out of" with each option in a paraphrased sentence. "The prisoners escaped from jail when the guards were not looking" is natural and fits the context perfectly. "The prisoners raised from jail", "surrendered from jail" or "perpetuated from jail" are all incorrect in meaning and grammar. This confirms that "escaped" is the correct interpretation.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A changes the event from leaving the prison to lifting something, which is irrelevant. Option B suggests the prisoners gave themselves up, which contradicts the idea of using the guards distraction. Option D suggests continuing or prolonging something, which has no connection to physically leaving a jail.

Common Pitfalls:
Phrasal verbs often have multiple meanings depending on prepositions and context. "Break out" by itself can mean to start suddenly, as in "a fire broke out" or "a rash broke out". However, when followed by "of" and a place of confinement, it clearly means to escape. Paying close attention to the whole phrase and the surrounding words is essential.

Final Answer:
In this sentence, "broke out of jail" means escaped, so option C is correct.