SSC Stenographer 2025 PYQ — Question 143

SSC Stenographer - 08 Aug 2025 - Shift 3 • English • Q143

What does the idiom 'To bell the cat' mean? 

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: A

Explanation

The idiom "To bell the cat" means to undertake a task that is extremely dangerous, risky, or difficult for the benefit of a group, often one that others are unwilling to attempt.

Origin: The phrase comes from a famous fable (often attributed to Aesop) called "The Mice in Council." In the story, a group of mice decides to hang a bell around a cat's neck so they can hear it coming. While they all agree it is a great plan, the problem arises when they realize no mouse is brave enough to actually do it.

In the context of the question, the correct option is:

Take a risky initiative