Select the most appropriate meaning of the highlighted idiom.
My friend was playing the devil’s advocate in the discussion.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The most appropriate meaning of the highlighted idiom "playing the devil's advocate" is >One who argues against something just for the sake of arguing.<
This idiom refers to someone who takes a position that they do not actually believe in, in order to encourage discussion and debate. The devil's advocate is often used in academic settings, where it can help to test the strength of an argument.
The other options are not correct.
- One who is composed at all times does not mean playing the devil's advocate.
- One who pits the culprit against the lawyer does not mean playing the devil's advocate.
- One who is good at judgement does not mean playing the devil's advocate.