Idioms & Phrases – Choose the option that best explains the meaning. Sentence: The secretary and the treasurer are “hand in glove” with each other.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: associates in some action

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
“Hand in glove (with someone)” means to be in very close association, often implying collusion or cooperation in a scheme. In administrative or financial contexts, the idiom frequently suggests working together—sometimes improperly—rather than mere friendship or hostility.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Idiom: “hand in glove.”
  • Parties: secretary and treasurer (sensitive roles for collusion).
  • Likely nuance: close cooperation, possibly for a shared purpose.


Concept / Approach:
The best answer must capture close, coordinated association. “Very good friends” focuses on personal rapport, not joint action. “Associates in some action” states collaboration without overcommitting to guilt, which aligns well with the idiom in neutral framing, while still leaving room for implied collusion.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Retrieve idiomatic sense → closely associated, often collusive.Select “associates in some action.”Reject “very good friends” (friendship, not necessarily coordinated action).Reject “constantly fighting” and “suspicious” (opposites).


Verification / Alternative check:
Substitute: “are closely associated in action.” This is consistent with common dictionary glosses.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • very good friends: Possible but misses the action/collusion angle.
  • constantly fighting / suspicious: Contradict the idiom.


Common Pitfalls:
Equating closeness only with friendship. The idiom emphasizes working together, sometimes in shady ways.


Final Answer:
associates in some action

More Questions from Idioms and Phrases

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Join Discussion