Question

Identify the meaning of the given phrase/ idiom:
For want of means
a. Because of a lack of resources
b. Giving something wanted by another
c. Desiring something
d. Because of fulfilling needs

Answer 1

Hint: The phrase ‘for want of means’ denotes the absence of assets which may be utilized for further development.

Complete step-by-step answer:

 ‘For want of means’ is an idiom. Idioms are phrases that have a metaphorical meaning. Their true meaning does not lie in their face value, but in a metaphor that represents the sum of their parts. This idiom itself makes use of the phrase ‘for want of’. The word ‘want’ by itself conveys a need for something. Thus, ‘for want of means’ indicates that a person wants the means to further his aims.
Let us look at an example.
The project failed for want of better execution.
Here, we can see that the failure of the project is attested to the lack of proper execution. If the appropriate level of organization and execution had been present, the project would have succeeded. Thus, the phrase ‘for want of’ provides a reason as to why a particular issue or problem arose and gives the particulars of what would have rectified it.
Let us consider the question given above- For want of means
Here, the absence of methods or assets has hindered the achievement of something. This meaning is best described by the meaning because of a lack of resources. Therefore, the option ‘a’ is the correct answer.

Note: Do not mistake option ‘d’ as the correct answer because it considers the fulfillment of needs. The meaning of this phrase isn’t reflected by the presence of needs but by having the resources to fulfill them.