IDIOMS — Choose the option that best expresses the meaning of the underlined expression. Sentence: 'Sanjay was the real power behind the throne and all politicians were aware of this.'

Introduction / Context:
“Power behind the throne” is a political idiom describing an individual who exercises real power or influence while another figure serves as the visible, official leader. It is common in analyses of court politics, party dynamics, or corporate structures.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Named figure: Sanjay.
• Public awareness: “all politicians were aware.”
• Hidden/indirect influence: implied by the idiom.

Concept / Approach:
The expression does not require a literal monarch or queen. It generalizes to any situation where a de facto power-holder operates behind a de jure head. The best paraphrase highlights “real control and power,” not merely advice or a formal title.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Identify the idiom’s metaphor: rule occurs from behind the visible ruler.2) Choose the option that states “real control and power.”3) Eliminate options limited to advisers or titular leaders.4) Confirm that the paraphrase fits both royal and non-royal settings.

Verification / Alternative check:
Historical examples (e.g., chief ministers, kingmakers) illustrate the idiom’s use where the influencer is not the official head yet directs decisions.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
B) “acknowledged leader” — public head, not hidden power.C) “controlled the monarch” — too literal and narrow.D) “advised the queen” — advisory role lacks decisive control.

Common Pitfalls:
Equating advisers with ultimate decision-makers. The idiom stresses effective, not merely advisory, power.

Final Answer:
The person who had the real control and power