Choose the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the Idiom/Phrase. to smell a rat

Question

Choose the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the Idiom/Phrase.

to smell a rat

1. A. to smell foul
2. B. to see a rat
3. C. to chase a rat
4. D. to be suspicious (Correct answer)

Correct Answer

Option D — to be suspicious

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is to be suspicious.

Key Points

• The idiom "to smell a rat" means to suspect that something is wrong, dishonest or being concealed.
• It is used when there is no proof yet, only a strong instinct that something is not right.
• The other options interpret the phrase literally, which is exactly the trap in idiom questions.

Additional Information

• The image comes from a dog detecting a hidden rat by scent alone — sensing what cannot yet be seen.
• Example: *When the contractor refused to show the accounts, the committee began to smell a rat.*