Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
Cat’s paw
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The most appropriate meaning of the given idiom "cat's paw" is (1) A person used as a tool by another.
The idiom "cat's paw" comes from the story of a monkey who tricks a crab into getting him a coconut by dangling it on a string just out of reach. The crab is used as the monkey's tool to get what he wants.
In human terms, a cat's paw is someone who is used by another person to do their bidding, often without realizing it. The person being used is the cat's paw, and the person doing the using is the monkey.
The other options do not fit the meaning of the idiom.
- The most important attribute means something that is essential or indispensable.
- To attack someone means to physically or verbally assault them.
- Move at a fast pace means to travel or move quickly.