Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.

The last straw

The final problem in a series of problems that makes the situation intolerable

The most appropriate meaning of the idiom "the last straw" is the final problem in a series of problems that makes the situation intolerable.

The other options are incorrect.

• "The last ray of hope in an unfortunate situation" is not the same as the last straw. A ray of hope is something that gives you hope, while the last straw is something that makes the situation unbearable.
• "The last financial resource" is not the same as the last straw. A financial resource is something that you can use to pay for things, while the last straw is something that makes the situation unbearable.
• "The only option left after a series of unsuccessful attempts" is not the same as the last straw. An option is something that you can choose, while the last straw is something that makes the situation unbearable.

The idiom "the last straw" comes from the idea of a camel's back being broken by a series of straws. In the same way, the last straw is the final problem that makes a situation unbearable. For example, you might say that a person who is constantly being criticized by their boss finally quits their job when they are given the last straw.