Question

Choose the exact meaning of the underlined idiom/phrase.
There is no need to rake up an old argument.
(a) Forget
(b) Revive
(c) Start
(d) End

Answer 1

Hint: The question clearly states that we need to choose the option which means the same or is close to the synonym of the given idiom. Recall the meaning of the given idiom and the options and choose the most suitable one.

Complete answer:
An idiom refers to a phrase or a group of words that indicate a metaphorical meaning in comparison to the literal meaning of its words.
The idiom ‘rake up’ refers to restoring or bringing back something to awareness.
For example- The therapist advised my brother not to rake up the memories. Here, we can conclude that a therapist, X, advised Y’s brother not to revive or bring back memories of the past to focus.
Now, let’s examine the given options-
Option a- ‘Forget’ refers to the failure to recall or remember something. For example- He can never forget my birthday. ‘Forget’ is opposite in meaning to the given context. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option b- ‘Revive’ refers to restoring or bring something back to consciousness. For example- The fireman tried to revive the dog. ‘Revive’ is similar in meaning to the given context. Hence, it is the correct option.
Option c- ‘Start’ refers to beginning or commencing something. For example- The holiday season starts in late November. ‘Start’ is different in meaning to the given context. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option d- ‘End’ refers to concluding or terminating something. For example- He couldn’t walk properly at the end of the race. ‘End’ is different in meaning to the given context. Hence, it is an incorrect option. Hence, the correct answer is Option ’b’.

Note:
 Some other synonyms for the given idiom are; rekindle, renew, recover, etc while some antonyms for the given idiom are; break, damage, discourage, etc.