SSC IMD SA 2017 – Question 60

In each of the questions, four alternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase. Select the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the Idiom/Phrase
and click the button corresponding to it.
Wild goose chase

• A bird hunting trip where you hunt with the help of dogs
• Have a great fun time with friends
• Pursue something with half hearted interest
• A frustrating or lengthy undertaking that accomplishes little

Detailed Explanation:

The correct meaning of the idiom is d) A frustrating or lengthy undertaking that accomplishes little.

• Idiom: “Wild goose chase”
• Origin & Meaning: Originating from an old equestrian race where riders had to follow a lead rider resembling a flight of wild geese, it figuratively denotes a futile, hopeless, and frustrating pursuit or search for something unobtainable or nonexistent.
• Example: “Searching for the lost keys in the vast forest turned out to be a wild goose chase.”
• Review of Other Options:
  • Option 1 is a literal distractor referring to hunting birds.
  • Option 2 refers to having fun with friends.
  • Option 3 describes half-hearted pursuit, whereas a wild goose chase is about the futility of the effort, not lack of interest.

Hence, Option d is the correct answer.