Choose the correct meaning of the idiom:
"To make bricks without straw."
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Correct Answer
To attempt something without the necessary resources
Explanation
The idiom refers to trying to accomplish a task or complete a project without having the essential raw materials or tools required for it. To solve this quickly for an exam, look at the literal imagery of the phrase, which originates from an ancient biblical story where workers were forced to make mud bricks without being provided the straw needed to bind them together.
The phrase "To attempt something without the necessary resources" perfectly captures this meaning of being expected to produce something out of nothing. The other choices are incorrect because the phrase does not mean wasting time on easy work, using traditional building methods, or working a construction job. Therefore, Option 3 is the correct choice.
Key Points
Interpreting historical idioms requires linking the literal impossibility of the physical task to its metaphorical meaning of resource scarcity.
The idiom specifically targets a lack of essential materials or funding rather than a lack of skills or time.