Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.

By hook or by crook

By any means

The most appropriate meaning of the idiom "by hook or by crook" is by any means.

The other options are incorrect.

• "By a narrow margin" means by a small difference.
• "By default" means automatically, without any effort.
• "By mistake" means unintentionally.

The idiom "by hook or by crook" comes from the idea of using any means necessary, even dishonest or illegal means, to achieve something. For example, you might say that a politician will win the election by hook or by crook.