Question:
What is the meaning of the idiom "leave in the lurch"?
What is the meaning of the idiom "leave in the lurch"?
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The word "lurch" is related to an unstable, sudden movement or a state of helplessness.
Leaving someone in such an unstable state means leaving them when they need help the most.
Remember this negative association to quickly eliminate positive choices.
Leaving someone in such an unstable state means leaving them when they need help the most.
Remember this negative association to quickly eliminate positive choices.
Updated On: Jun 17, 2026
- To support someone
- To reward someone
- To abandon someone in difficulty
- To guide someone
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Verified By Collegedunia
The Correct Option is C
Solution and Explanation
Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The objective of this question is to find the correct meaning of the popular idiomatic expression "leave in the lurch".
Recognizing whether an idiom carries positive or negative connotations can greatly simplify the elimination process.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
1. Let us analyze the historical origin of the phrase: The term "lurch" comes from an old French board game where being left in the lurch meant being placed in a hopeless position of defeat.
2. Let us evaluate Option (A) "To support someone": This is a positive action and represents the direct opposite of leaving someone helpless.
3. Let us evaluate Option (B) "To reward someone": This refers to giving a prize or recognition for an effort, which does not relate to abandonment.
4. Let us evaluate Option (C) "To abandon someone in difficulty": This matches the core concept of leaving someone stranded or helpless in a challenging situation.
5. Let us evaluate Option (D) "To guide someone": Guiding implies active assistance and leadership, which is contrary to abandoning someone.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Based on the idiomatic analysis, the correct option is (C) as "leave in the lurch" specifically means deserting someone during a crisis.
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