Idioms & Phrases – Choose the option that best explains the highlighted expression. Sentence: In spite of the efforts of all peace-loving people, world peace is still “a far cry.”

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: a long way off

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
“A far cry” is an idiomatic expression meaning “very distant from being achieved” or “a long way off.” The sentence laments that world peace remains distant despite widespread efforts. The goal is to pick the paraphrase that emphasizes distance in realization, not philosophical nature or practicality per se.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Key phrase: “a far cry.”
  • Topic: world peace as a goal.
  • We need the option expressing distance from achievement.


Concept / Approach:
While options like “impracticable” or “abstract” talk about feasibility or conceptual status, the idiom centers on how far the current state is from the desired goal. “A long way off” is the standard idiomatic equivalence, focusing on remoteness rather than impossibility or mere theory.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Interpret “far cry” → very distant in achievement.Choose the paraphrase emphasizing distance: “a long way off.”Recognize that “out of reach” can imply impossibility; the sentence does not claim impossibility.Reject labels about nature (abstract, impracticable) that miss the distance emphasis.


Verification / Alternative check:
Substitute: “world peace is still a long way off.” This is a familiar journalistic phrasing and matches dictionary glosses of the idiom.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • an impracticable idea: Suggests it cannot be implemented; stronger than the sentence implies.
  • an abstract idea: Talks about concept versus reality, not distance to achievement.
  • out of reach: Implies unattainability; the original statement stresses distance, not impossibility.


Common Pitfalls:
Confusing “far cry” with “far-fetched” (unlikely). “Far cry” is about distance from a goal rather than probability of a claim.


Final Answer:
a long way off

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