Explanation: Idioms are expressions that have a figurative meaning different from the literal meaning of the words. They are commonly used in everyday language and often have cultural or historical roots. "Tooth and nail" is an idiom that means to do something with one's full might, indicating a strong effort and determination. The phrase suggests a fight or struggle where one uses all available resources and strength, similar to how an animal might fight with its teeth and nails.
The idiom "tooth and nail" is derived from the idea of a fierce struggle where an animal uses its teeth and nails to fight. In human contexts, it is used to describe a situation where someone is putting in a lot of effort and determination to achieve something, often in the face of significant opposition or difficulty. For example, one might say, "She fought tooth and nail to win the scholarship," meaning she worked very hard and did everything possible to achieve her goal.
It is important to understand the figurative meaning of idioms like "tooth and nail" because they are commonly used in both spoken and written English. Misunderstanding idioms can lead to confusion, especially for non-native speakers. In the context of competitive examinations, knowing the correct meaning of idioms is crucial for comprehension and effective communication.
The other options provided in the question are incorrect because they do not accurately reflect the meaning of the idiom. Option B suggests teasing, which is not related to the idiom's meaning of strong effort. Option C suggests devotion, which is close but does not capture the sense of struggle and determination implied by "tooth and nail." Option D is incorrect because option A is the correct definition.
Understanding idioms like "tooth and nail" is essential for mastering the English language and performing well in competitive examinations that test language skills. It is also useful in everyday communication to convey ideas more vividly and effectively.