Question

Choose the correct meaning of the given phrase-
‘Like a fish out of water’
a- Troubled
b- Stupid
c- Uncomfortable
d- Inferior
e- Superior

Answer 1

Hint: The phrase, ‘Like a fish out of water’ refers to feeling uncomfortable or awkward because one is facing a situation that he/she has never seen before.

Complete answer:
The phrase, ‘Like a fish out of water’ was first used by Geoffrey Chaucer in the late 15th century.
We know the meaning and origin of the given phrase. Now, let’s look at its usage:
Example- I felt like a fish out of water in this new town. Here, we can conclude that ‘X’ felt uncomfortable and awkward in the new town.
Let’s examine the meaning of the given options-
Option a- ‘Troubled’ refers to feeling disturbed or bothered by something or someone. Example- My sister seems troubled these days. ‘Troubled’ is different in meaning to the given phrase. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option b- ‘Stupid’ refers to someone who is foolish and dull-witted. Example- The stupid girl ran on the road. ‘Stupid’ is different in meaning to the given phrase. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option c- ‘Uncomfortable’ refers to feeling discomforted or upset. Example- I felt uncomfortable standing in the crowd. ‘Uncomfortable’ is similar in meaning to the given phrase. Hence, it is the correct option.
Option d- ‘Inferior’ refers to someone or something that is junior or lower in the ranking. Example- The schools in the village are inferior to the schools in the city. ‘Inferior’ is different in meaning to the given phrase. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option e- ‘Superior’ refers to someone or something that is senior or higher in the ranking. Example- My boss has a superior office. ‘Superior’ is different in meaning to the given phrase. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
So, the correct answer is “Option c”.

Note:
Thoroughly understand the meaning of the given phrase and its options, before choosing the most suitable answer. Some other words that we can use to convey the meaning of the phrase are; awkward, discomforted, troublesome, etc.