Choose the correct meaning of the given idiom/phrase from the options:
"Smell a rat":
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
Correct Answer
To suspect something
Explanation
The question asks for the true figurative meaning of the common idiom "Smell a rat." To solve this quickly for an exam, look past the literal phrasing to find the underlying behavioral or emotional context.
The idiom "Smell a rat" is used when someone senses that a situation is not quite right, feels that someone is acting dishonestly, or suspects foul play or a scam. It originates from the idea of a cat sensing the hidden presence of a destructive pest before actually seeing it.
Let's look at why the other options do not fit:
"To be very clean" has no logical link to a dirty animal like a rat.
"To follow orders" refers to obedience or compliance.
"To be afraid" refers to fear, whereas smelling a rat refers specifically to suspicion and alertness rather than cowardice.
Because the phrase perfectly aligns with sensing deception or dishonesty, Option 2 is the correct choice.
Key Points
Interpreting idioms requires looking past the literal definitions of the animals or objects mentioned to identify the universal human behavior they represent.
The phrase "smell a rat" specifically denotes a gut feeling of suspicion regarding hidden trickery, treason, or dishonest behavior.