Asked in: IB ACIO 2023 T-1
red rag to a bull in SSC previous-year questions
- IB ACIO 2023 T-1 Idioms & Phrases
Which of the following statements correctly uses the idiom 'red rag to a bull’ by substituting the underlined words?
A. The poor subordinates are made scapegoats for the misdeeds of their superiors.
B. For me, a person playing a double game is someone who specially provokesme.
C. Since your boss is well disposed towards you, you must act promptly and ask for a promotion.
D. The huge loss to our factory due to the floods was a totally unexpected disaster.Answer & explanation
Answer: D) Statement B
Explanation:
Idiom: Red rag to a bull
Meaning: Something that provokes anger or annoyance, especially in someone known to be easily provoked.
Hindi meaning: किसी को गुस्सा दिलाने वाली बात / आग में घी डालने जैसा
Now, let’s examine each statement:
🔹 Statement A:
“The poor subordinates are made scapegoats for the misdeeds of their superiors.”
• ❌ “Made scapegoats” = दूसरों की गलती का दोष लेना
• This does not match the meaning of “red rag to a bull.”
🔹 Statement B:
“For me, a person playing a double game is someone who specially provokes me.”
• ✅ “Specially provokes me” = me watching them is like a red rag to a bull — i.e., they irritate me intensely
• So, replacing “specially provokes me” with
red rag to a bull – questions
Has red rag to a bull been asked in SSC exams?
Yes – red rag to a bull has been asked in SSC exams: IB ACIO 2023 T-1.