In each of the questions given below a/an idiom/phrase is given in bold which is then followed by five options which then tries to decipher its meaning as used in the sentence. Choose the option which gives the meaning of the phrase most appropriately in the context of the given sentence.

The border is surrounded by forces who mean business.

Directions: In question four alternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase underlined in the sentences. Choose the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the Idiom/Phrase and mark it is the Answer Sheet.

All his schemes ended in smoke.

Directions: In question four alternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase underlined in the sentences. Choose the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the Idiom/Phrase and mark it is the Answer Sheet.

It seems that he took pains to write the book. 

In the following question, out of the given four alternatives, select the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the Idiom/Phrase.

Wear the green willow

Directions: In question four alternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase underlined in the sentences. Choose the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the Idiom/Phrase and mark it is the Answer Sheet.

Ravi fought to the bitter end. 

In spite of his recent financial troubles. Ashok has not learnt to cut his coat according to his cloth. 

The minister assured the agitating employees that he would look into their demands sympathetically. 

Which of the phrases (A), (B), (C) and (D) are given below sentence should replace the phrase printed in bold in the sentence to make it grammatically correct? If the sentence is correct as it is given and ‘No correction is required ‘, mark (E) as the answer.

As it was a dark and stormy night, Lata was too scared to go home alone.