SSC Selection Post 2025 PYQ — Question 73

SSC Selection Post - Higher Secondary Level - 24th July 2025 - Shift 2 • English • Q73

Choose the correct meaning of Idiom "Throw down the gauntlet"

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C

Explanation

Correct Answer

Challenge someone boldly

Explanation

The idiom "throw down the gauntlet" historical references a medieval practice where a knight would drop his armored glove (gauntlet) onto the ground to challenge an opponent to a duel. Taking up the glove meant accepting the fight. In modern English, it means to issue a direct challenge or open invitation to combat, debate, or competition.

Key Points

Core Definition Throw down the gauntlet (to issue a bold challenge).

Historical Origin Medieval customs of knightly duels and combat challenges.