Idioms and Phrases

The phrase 'left you in the lurch' is an idiomatic expression meaning to abandon someone in a difficult situation. Therefore, 'lurch' is the correct word to complete the sentence.

The phrase 'taken to task' means to be reprimanded or scolded for a mistake or wrongdoing. Therefore, option D, 'Get an official reprimand,' correctly explains the meaning of the phrase in this context.

The phrase 'forlorn hope' refers to a desperate or nearly hopeless undertaking, which fits the context of the U.N.O being a desperate enterprise for world peace. Therefore, option A is correct.

The idiom 'A Dark Horse' refers to a person who unexpectedly wins or succeeds, especially in a competition or election, surprising others who were unaware of their potential.

The idiomatic phrase 'a month of Sundays' means a very long time, emphasizing an extended period that feels unusually lengthy.

The term 'Lotus-eater' originates from Greek mythology, referring to people who lived in a state of dreamy forgetfulness and idleness after eating the lotus plant. Thus, it describes a person who is lazy or avoids responsibilities.

The idiom 'To kill a mockingbird' symbolizes destroying innocence or harming someone who does no harm, as mockingbirds represent innocence and harmlessness in literature, notably in Harper Lee's novel.

The idiom "give the cold shoulder" means to deliberately ignore or show indifference to someone. Therefore, option C, "To ignore," is the correct meaning.

The phrase "a month of Sundays" is an idiom that means a very long time, emphasizing an extended period rather than a short one or a special day.

The phrase 'Clouds on the horizon' is an idiomatic expression meaning that problems or difficulties are expected in the near future. It metaphorically suggests that trouble is approaching, similar to how clouds on the horizon indicate impending bad weather.

The idiom "Elephant in the room" refers to a major issue or problem that everyone is aware of but chooses to ignore or avoid discussing. This makes option A the correct meaning.

"In toto" is a Latin phrase meaning "as a whole" or "in total." Therefore, option C correctly defines the phrase.

In the idiomatic expression, a "lame duck" refers to a person or entity that is powerless or ineffective, especially in a political context. Therefore, "Powerless" is the most accurate meaning among the options.

The idiom "See eye to eye" means to agree fully or have the same opinion with someone. Therefore, option C is correct as it reflects this meaning.

The idiom "take the wind out of someone's sails" means to make someone feel less confident or to deflate their enthusiasm, which matches option B. It does not mean changing direction, destroying someone, or making them more confident.

The idiom "meat and potatoes" refers to the most important and basic parts of something, emphasizing the essential elements rather than extras or details.

The phrase "bandy something around" means to discuss something casually or exchange ideas informally, which matches option B. The other options do not accurately reflect the idiomatic meaning.

The idiom "As right as rain" means that something is perfectly fine or in very good condition, which aligns with option D, "Something is perfect." The other options do not capture the idiomatic meaning.

The idiom "make sheep's eyes at" means to look at someone in a shy, amorous, or affectionate way, often foolishly or bashfully. Option A correctly captures this meaning, while the other options are either too general or incorrect.

The idiom 'to keep the pot boiling' means to maintain interest or keep a situation active and engaging. This matches option A, making it the correct choice.

The idiom 'to pull one's socks up' means to make an effort to improve one's work or behavior, often after a period of poor performance. Therefore, option B is the correct meaning.

The phrase "hell to pay" means severe consequences or trouble resulting from an action. It is commonly used to indicate that there will be serious repercussions.

The idiom 'Keep a tight rein on' means to exercise strict control over something or someone, similar to holding the reins tightly when riding a horse to control its movements.

The idiom "a bed of roses" means a comfortable or easy situation, implying life is pleasant and free of difficulties.

The idiom "a bag of bones" refers to someone who is extremely thin or emaciated, which matches option A. The other options do not reflect the meaning of this idiom.