Idiomatic Usage – Choose the option that best explains the meaning of the underlined phrase. Sentence: This regular absenteeism is a “bad business” since no work is being completed.

Introduction / Context:
In everyday English, “a bad business” often functions idiomatically to mean “an unfortunate, troubling, or unpleasant state of affairs.” The sentence points to chronic absenteeism and explicitly notes that no work is being completed, highlighting a problematic situation rather than a literal commercial matter.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The highlighted phrase is “bad business.”
• Context is a workplace with regular absenteeism.
• The clause “no work is being completed” signals an undesirable situation.

Concept / Approach:
When “business” appears in idioms like “a nasty business,” “a bad business,” it typically means a disagreeable affair or episode. We must therefore select the option that captures “unfortunate event/situation.” It is not about harming a company’s profits specifically, nor about etiquette or interpersonal ill-will alone; it is about the overall unpleasant state of affairs caused by absenteeism.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Paraphrase: “This regular absenteeism is an unfortunate state of affairs since no work is being completed.” This maintains meaning and tone consistent with idiomatic English.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Bad for business: Overly literal and financial; the sentence targets completion of work, not profit margins.
• Non-business like: Suggests unprofessional conduct; less accurate than calling it an unfortunate situation.
• Creating ill-will: Possible side effect, but not the central meaning indicated by the sentence.

Common Pitfalls:
Interpreting “business” strictly as commerce. Idiomatically, it often just means “matter/affair,” especially when modified by adjectives like “bad,” “nasty,” or “funny.”

Final Answer:
An unfortunate event