Question

Choose the meaning of the idiom run down.

• A. To criticize someone
• B. To move upward
• C. To decorate something
• D. To discover a secret

Hint:

Phrasal verbs can have multiple meanings depending on context.
When preparing for competitive exams, study the multiple definitions of common phrasal verbs containing verbs like run, put, look, and take.
In this question, looking for the most common figurative meaning helps identify "to criticize someone" as the correct choice.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This question focuses on a multi-meaning idiom/phrasal verb. Phrasal verbs combine a standard verb with an adverb or preposition to form a completely new idiomatic meaning depending on the surrounding context.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The phrase "run down" has a few common idiomatic definitions in English: 1. To criticize or speak poorly of someone: Unfairly pointing out faults or disparaging someone's reputation (e.g., "Don't run down your friends behind their backs"). This perfectly matches option (A). 2. To be in poor physical condition: Exhausted, tired, or a building that is old and neglected. 3. To lose power: A battery or clock slowly losing its electrical/mechanical charge and stopping. Let's look at why the other options do not fit: - Option (B) is the opposite direction of the literal words. - Option (C) refers to sprucing up or decking out. - Option (D) refers to bringing to light or unraveling a secret.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The meaning of the idiom run down is to criticize someone.