Question:medium

Directions: Choose the option that best expresses the meaning of the given idiom/phrase.
The results of the poll have started coming in but our party chief will be on tenterhooks until the last result comes in.

Updated On: Jan 13, 2026
  • In high spirits
  • In a depressed mood
  • In a state of agitated suspense
  • In an exalted stage
  • In a state of resignation
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

The correct answer is option (C):
In a state of agitated suspense

The correct answer is "In a state of agitated suspense."

The idiom "on tenterhooks" means to be in a state of anxiety, suspense, or worry. It implies a feeling of being stretched or pulled in different directions, unable to relax or feel at ease. The party chief, waiting for the poll results, would naturally experience this kind of emotional state.

Let's look at why the other options are incorrect:

* "In high spirits" indicates a feeling of excitement and joy, the opposite of the anxiety implied by the idiom.
* "In a depressed mood" suggests sadness and low spirits, which is not the same as the suspenseful anxiety of being "on tenterhooks".
* "In an exalted stage" implies a state of elevated importance or praise, having nothing to do with the meaning of the idiom.
* "In a state of resignation" suggests acceptance or giving up, which also contradicts the anxious anticipation implied by "on tenterhooks".

Therefore, "In a state of agitated suspense" accurately captures the meaning of the idiom by reflecting the feelings of worry and uncertainty that the party chief would be experiencing.
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