Question

Choose the exact meaning of the idiom/phrase:
To flog a dead horse

A. To do something in vain
B. To act in a foolish way
C. To criticise severely
D. Try to revive interest in a subject that is out of date

Answer 1

Hint:An idiom is an expression that has a metaphorical meaning that has been accepted in common use. Idioms are not easy to understand because their meanings are usually metaphorical

Complete answer:
An idiom’s symbolic sense is quite different from the literal meaning or definition of the words of which it is made. There are a large number of idioms and in all languages they are used very widely. It is estimated that at least 25,000 idiomatic expressions occur in the English language.
The building blocks of a language and culture are idioms. To make a language fascinating and complex, idioms have a high strength. They add a spectacular example to daily speech. They also offer fascinating insights into their speakers' usage of words, languages and thought processes. Idioms have a sense of mystery about them and are enjoyable.
Let us look at some common idioms of English.
A hot potato; It means a contentious problem or situation that is uncomfortable or unpleasant to deal with. Piece of cake; it refers to something that is easy to do. Once in a blue moon; it means very rarely. A bed of roses; it refers to an easy option.
Now, let us look at the idiom given in the question i.e to flog a dead horse. Here, the idiom refers to waste energy on a lost cause or a situation that cannot be changed. Therefore, the correct option will be A i.e. to do something in vain.
Hence the correct answer is option ‘A'.

Note:You might get confused at times. But to clear your thoughts and to get the correct answer, you can always take help of the internet or any book on idioms and phrases.