Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: Keep a controversy alive
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
“Keep the pot boiling” is an idiom used in political commentary and media criticism. It means to maintain public interest, excitement, or controversy so that an issue remains in active discussion. In the sentence, the film is said to have sustained debate around the Muslim Women’s Bill, ensuring it stayed newsworthy and contentious.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Media and politics often use culinary metaphors. A “boiling pot” suggests continued simmering activity. The correct paraphrase emphasizes sustaining controversy or interest. Options that interpret the expression literally or redirect it to survival economics are inappropriate.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify idiom: keep the pot boiling = sustain interest/controversy.Discard literal readings involving pots or bills physically boiling.Select the choice that explicitly states “keep a controversy alive.”Check alignment with media discourse around sensitive bills.
Verification / Alternative check:
Replace the idiom: “has tried to keep the controversy about the Muslim Women’s Bill alive.” The meaning is preserved.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Common Pitfalls:
Taking press idioms literally; missing that “boiling” here signals sustained agitation in public discourse.
Final Answer:
Keep a controversy alive
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