Question

Choose the correct meaning of the given phrase.
“Hush Money”
A. Easy Money
B. Money earned by wrong means
C. Bribe paid to secure silence
D. Money overdue
E. Money not wanted

Answer 1

Hint: The given phrase “hush money” stands for a sum given as bribery. An amount of money or other enticement is given to someone so that they do not disclose any illegal or stigmatic behaviour of the offerer. We will look for a phrase which has a similar meaning.

Complete step by step answer:
Let us analyse each option individually to know the correct answer.

Easy Money: The phrase ‘easy money’ means a sum or amount of money attained or earned by easy means. This phrase doesn’t express the meaning of the given phrase, therefore, it is an incorrect option.
Money earned by wrong means : This phrase suggests that the money earned is by means which are not ethical or are illegal. Example: Money earned by wrong means does not last long. This phrase doesn’t depict the meaning of the given phrase, therefore this is an incorrect option.
Bribe paid to secure silence : The word ‘bribe’ used in this phrase means a sum of money or other enticing sources to someone in order to hide illegal or immoral doings. This phrase refers to such money given to secure someone’s silence, that is to make sure someone would not disclose an unethical behaviour. This phrase means the same as the given phrase. Therefore, this is the correct option.
Money overdue : This phrase refers to money which is pending for a long time. This phrase doesn’t depict the meaning of the given phrase, therefore this is an incorrect option.
Money not wanted : This option refers to a sum of money which is not desired or unwanted. This phrase doesn’t depict the meaning of the given phrase, therefore this is an incorrect option.

So, the correct answer is “Option C”.

Note:
The phrase ‘hush money’ is self explanatory as the word ‘hush’ means to silent someone or make someone quiet. Though such money or bribery is ‘money earned by wrong means’ as this money is unethical.