Read the sentence below and choose the meaning of the idiom that best fits the context:
'Mr. Smith: There's a little time before lunch. I think I'm going to lie down for a while and catch forty winks.'
What does the idiom 'catch forty winks' mean in this context?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The correct answer is Take a short nap.
Explanation
Rule: Idiomatic expressions use figurative language to describe actions. The phrase 'forty winks' is a traditional English idiom specifically used to represent a brief period of sleep during the day.
Formula: Lie down for a while + Forty winks = A short daytime nap
Application: The context of the sentence states that Mr. Smith has 'a little time before lunch' and intends to 'lie down for a while.' This directly supports the meaning of resting or taking a short nap rather than eating, walking, or daydreaming.