Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: both suffered similarly
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
This question asks you to interpret a vivid image from the war passage. The phrase friend and foe alike were almost drowned in blood is a dramatic way of describing the effects of war on all participants, regardless of side.
Given Data / Assumptions:
• Both friend and foe are mentioned together in the same phrase.
• They are described as almost drowned in blood, which is a metaphor for very heavy casualties.
• The passage does not describe reconciliation or increased friendship between the sides.
• The central focus is on suffering and death.
Concept / Approach:
When interpreting figurative language, concentrate on the key image. Drowned in blood clearly points to massive loss of life and injury. Since the phrase includes both friend and foe, the intended meaning is that both sides experienced similar suffering in the war.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Note that the phrase joins friend and foe with the word alike.
Step 2: Understand that alike means in the same way or to the same degree.
Step 3: Interpret drowned in blood as a metaphor for severe casualties.
Step 4: Combine these ideas to see that both sides suffered heavy losses.
Step 5: Choose the option that states both suffered similarly.
Verification / Alternative check:
Check whether the other options match the idea of being drowned in blood. Forgetting differences or liking each other would require positive language, which the passage does not provide.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Friends and enemies forgot their differences: The passage does not mention reconciliation or peace between sides.
Both started liking each other: There is no hint of affection; only destruction is described.
War made people hate each other: Although war can increase hatred, this phrase specifically focuses on shared suffering, not on emotions of hatred.
Common Pitfalls:
Some students mistakenly think any mention of friend and foe together implies unity, but here the common element is suffering, not friendship. Always match the choice to the emotional tone of the image used.
Final Answer:
The correct answer is both suffered similarly, because the phrase friend and foe alike were almost drowned in blood shows that both sides experienced equally devastating losses in the war.
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