Question

Out of the given options, choose the option that correctly states the meaning of given phrase/idiom:
To catch a tartar
a) To trap wanted criminal with great difficulty
b) To fight with a strong enemy
c) To meet with disaster
d) To deal with a person who is more than one’s watch

Answer 1

Hint: An idiom is a set of words that refer to a certain meaning. The word tartar refers to a hard covering usually on teeth. Therefore, tartar can be equated with something which is difficult.

Complete answer:
To catch a tartar means when you are up against someone who is strong or stronger than you. Let us see every option to find out the correct answer.
Option a talks about catching an enemy with great difficulty. That is not the correct option since “catch” in the given idiom does not mean to literally catch someone but to come against/meet/face someone.
Option b talks about a fight with a strong enemy. This means you are facing or up against someone who is strong and can put up a good fight. Therefore, this is the correct answer.
Option c talks about meeting a disaster. The word disaster is ambiguous. It does not mean a strong person or enemy. So this option is wrong.
Option d talks about dealing with a person who is more than one’s watch. It does not exactly signify that the person being talked about is strong or not. Therefore, this is not a safe option to be chosen.
So, the correct answer is “Option b”.

Note:
In the given question, students might get confused between b and d. In such cases, try to select the option with less ambiguity. Try to match the actual meaning of the idiom with the given options and use the elimination method to eliminate options that have a distant reference.