Choose the correct meaning of idiom: Move heaven and earth

English Comprehension ·Previously asked in SSC CGL 2025

View the full solved paper: SSC CGL 2025 Tier I — 12 Sep 2025 (Shift 2)

Question

Choose the correct meaning of idiom: Move heaven and earth

  1. A. To relocate frequently
  2. B. To work tirelessly to achieve something (Correct answer)
  3. C. To stay silent in protest
  4. D. To follow blindly

Correct Answer

Option B — To work tirelessly to achieve something

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is To work tirelessly to achieve something.

Key Points

  • 'Move heaven and earth' means to make every possible effort — to do everything within one's power to achieve a goal.
  • The idiom pictures someone so determined that they would rearrange the cosmos itself, which is why it signals maximum, tireless effort.
  • 'To work tirelessly to achieve something' captures precisely this sense of exhaustive, unrelenting effort.

Additional Information

  • It is used with a purpose clause: *She moved heaven and earth to get her son admitted to that school.* Note that the two nouns never take articles.
  • The expression has biblical resonance, echoing Haggai 2:6 ('I will shake the heavens and the earth'), though its modern sense is entirely secular.
  • Idioms of similar force include *go the extra mile*, *leave no stone unturned*, *pull out all the stops* and *bend over backwards*.

Topics covered: SSC CGL English English SSC CGL 12 Sep 2025 Q77