Select the most appropriate idiom that can substitute the underlined segment in the given sentence.
Though the speaker used flowery expressions to convince the audience, they were intelligent enough to find out his ulterior intentions.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Explanation
The correct answer is option 4 i.e. to read between the lines.
The underlined segment 'find out his ulterior intentions' means the audience understood the hidden or deeper meaning behind the speaker’s words.
Let’s look at the meanings of the idioms:
To not judge a book by its cover – Means to not form an opinion based only on appearance. This doesn’t relate to uncovering hidden motives.
To be under somebody’s thumb – Means to be under someone's control or influence. Not relevant here.
To cast pearls before swine – Means to offer something valuable to those who won't appreciate it. Doesn’t fit the context.
To read between the lines – Means to understand the hidden meaning or real intention behind something said or written. This is exactly what the audience did in the sentence.