JAMB UTMEUse of EnglishLexis & Structure2022

Choose meaning of 'bury the hatchet'.

ADig a grave
BMake peaceCORRECT
CStart a fight
DHide a tool
AI
Toaster Teacher
Why the answer is B, and why the others tempt you.
**The reasoning** "Bury the hatchet" is an **idiom** — a phrase whose meaning isn't literal. Historically, Native Americans would literally bury their war hatchets (axes) in the ground as a symbolic act when ending conflicts. So the phrase means **to make peace** or stop fighting with someone. When you "bury the hatchet" with your friend after a quarrel, you're agreeing to end the beef and move forward. **Why the wrong options tempt you** **A) Dig a grave** — The word "bury" makes you think of funerals, but idioms aren't literal! **C) Start a fight** — A hatchet is a weapon, so your mind might jump to violence, but it's actually the opposite. **D) Hide a tool** — Yes, you're burying something, but missing the deeper cultural/historical meaning of the phrase. **Quick takeaway** When you see idioms in exams, **don't think literally** — look for the symbolic or cultural meaning. "Bury the hatchet" = end the war, make peace. Remember: burying weapons = no more fighting! ✌️
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