CDS 2026 (I) English, question 47

Topic: Idioms and phrases

Answers by SolvedPaper. UPSC has not released the official answer key for this paper yet. We will update it when they do.

Directions · Q41 to Q50

Given below are some idioms/phrases followed by four alternative meanings to each. Select the most appropriate response from the options provided and mark your response on the Answer Sheet accordingly.

Q47

Hold the fort

  1. (a) To reach high places
  2. (b) To breach all opposition
  3. (c) Be present at the precise moment when one is required
  4. (d) Be responsible on behalf of someone who is absentCorrect answer

Solution.

Answer: (d) Be responsible on behalf of someone who is absent

  1. To hold the fort is to take charge and keep things functioning while the person normally responsible is away.
  2. Option (d) states that temporary responsibility.