Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.

To take the bull by its horns

To deal with a difficult situation directly

The most appropriate meaning of the idiom "to take the bull by its horns" is to deal with a difficult situation directly.

This idiom comes from the practice of bullfighting, where the matador must grab the bull's horns in order to control it. It is used to describe someone who is brave and determined to face a challenge head-on, even if it is difficult or dangerous.

The other options for the meaning of the idiom are not as accurate.

• To accept defeat before a strong adversary is the opposite of what the idiom means.
• To invest money in an inflationary market is not typically considered to be a difficult or brave thing to do.
• To go on a hunting expedition is not typically associated with the idiom "to take the bull by its horns."