Which sentence expresses the correct meaning of the given idiom: Will O'' the Wisp

Question

Which sentence expresses the correct meaning of the given idiom:

Will O'' the Wisp

1. A. An objective that is effortlessly within one's grasp, requiring minimal effort to achieve.
2. B. A guiding principle that leads individuals towards clarity and success with precision.
3. C. An illusory pursuit that is captivating but ultimately unattainable, often leads one astray. (Correct answer)
4. D. A steadfast and immovable challenge though difficult, remains fixed and conquerable with persistence.

Correct Answer

Option C — An illusory pursuit that is captivating but ultimately unattainable, often leads one astray.

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is option C.

Key Points

• Will o' the wisp means an illusory or elusive goal that attracts but cannot be attained, often leading the pursuer astray.
• The phrase comes from the flickering marsh lights once believed to lure travellers off safe paths into bogs.
• The idiom therefore carries a sense of both allure and deception.
• Options describing an easily achieved goal or a reliable guiding principle invert the meaning.

Additional Information

• The Latin name for the phenomenon is ignis fatuus, literally "foolish fire" — the pale light seen over marshland, produced by gases from decaying matter igniting.
• Related idioms with the same sense of futile pursuit: a wild goose chase, chasing rainbows and a fool's errand.
• The spelling is *will o' the wisp*, where the apostrophe stands for the missing *of*.