Step 1 : Understanding the Question:
This problem falls under the topic of English Idioms and Phrases. The sentence provides a specific context: a workplace where leadership has suddenly disappeared due to a resignation. Such an event typically causes a breakdown in organization, leading to confusion among staff. We need to find the idiom that best describes a state of total disorder or lack of coordination.
Step 2 : Key Formulas and approach:
The approach for this question involves contextual sentiment analysis.
1. Evaluate the scenario: A sudden resignation is a disruptive event.
2. Identify the required state: The blank should be filled with a phrase describing chaos or lack of organization.
3. Linguistic check: Ensure the phrase can act as a complement to the verb "was."
Step 3 : Detailed Explanation:
Option (A) "white elephant" refers to an expensive and useless object. While an office could be a white elephant if it were costly and empty, the phrase doesn't describe the "state" of the people or the environment after a resignation.
Option (B) "at sixes and sevens" is the correct idiom. It originated from a dispute between London livery companies but evolved to mean a state of confusion, disorder, or disagreement. In the absence of a manager, the office would naturally be in this state of disarray.
Option (C) "eke out" is a verb meaning to survive with difficulty. It is grammatically incorrect to say the "office was eke out."
Option (D) "break through" refers to a significant success or discovery. This contradicts the negative or disruptive tone set by the "sudden resignation" of a key leader.
Step 4 : Final Answer:
Because "at sixes and sevens" describes the exact state of confusion expected in a leaderless office, Option (B) is the correct answer.