**Rule: Understanding Idiomatic Expressions.** The idiom 'on its last legs' refers to something that is in a very weak state and near to collapse, failure, or death. The expectation of bankruptcy clearly indicates that the company is failing. Option (a) is the correct definition. Option (b) and (c) are incorrect interpretations of 'legs.' Option (d) is the opposite of the idiom's meaning.

**Rule: Understanding Idiomatic Expressions.** The idiom 'by the skin of one's teeth' means to only just manage to do something; to succeed by the smallest possible margin. Since teeth do not have skin, the 'margin' is essentially zero, emphasizing how close to failure one was. Option (d) is the correct definition. Option (a) is the opposite. Option (b) is a possible reason for passing, but not the meaning of the idiom. Option (c) is a nonsensical literal interpretation.

**Rule: Understanding Idiomatic Expressions.** The idiom 'cut no ice' (usually used in the negative) means to fail to have any influence or impact. If the lawyer's argument had no effect on the jury, it means they were not persuaded by it. Option (a) is the correct definition. Option (b) and (c) are literal misinterpretations. Option (d) is the opposite.

**Rule: Understanding Idiomatic Expressions.** The idiom 'a taste of one's own medicine' means to receive the same kind of negative treatment that one has given to others. It is essentially retaliation in kind. Betrayal is an unpleasant act, and the idiom implies an equally unpleasant response. Option (a) is the correct definition. Option (b) and (d) are literal misinterpretations. Option (c) is the opposite of retaliation.

**Rule: Understanding Idiomatic Expressions.** The idiom 'at the end of one's rope' (or 'tether') means to be in a state where one can no longer cope with a difficult situation due to frustration or exhaustion. 'Constant computer problems' can easily lead to this state. Option (b) is the correct definition. Option (a) is a literal interpretation. Option (c) is unrelated. Option (d) is the opposite of the idiom's meaning.

**Rule: Understanding Idiomatic Expressions.** The verb 'to juggle' is used idiomatically to mean to cope with several demanding tasks or responsibilities simultaneously. Balancing a 'full-time job' and 'raising three children' is a classic example of this. Option (b) is the correct definition. Option (a) and (c) refer to literal juggling. Option (d) suggests a choice, whereas the idiom implies managing both at once.

**Rule: Understanding Idiomatic Expressions.** The idiom 'a fly in the ointment' refers to a small detail or flaw that spoils an otherwise enjoyable or perfect situation. A person who is 'always looking for' such a thing is a pessimist or a nitpicker. Option (b) is the correct definition. Option (a) is a literal interpretation. Option (c) describes the opposite (a silver lining). Option (d) describes a personality type that would not look for flaws.

**Rule: Understanding Idiomatic Expressions.** The idiom 'go down in flames' means to fail suddenly, completely, and spectacularly. A corruption scandal is a common cause for a political career to end in such a disastrous way. Option (a) is the correct definition. Option (b) and (d) are literal misinterpretations. Option (c) is the opposite.

**Rule: Understanding Idiomatic Expressions.** The idiom 'to have an axe to grind' means to have a private motive or grievance that fuels one's actions or arguments. Being fired from the company provides a strong personal motive for having a grievance. Option (b) correctly defines this situation. Option (a) and (c) are literal interpretations. Option (d) is the opposite.

**Rule: Understanding Idiomatic Expressions.** The idiom 'see eye to eye' means to be in full agreement with someone. Reaching a final agreement on a contract after 'weeks of negotiation' signifies that the two sides are now in accord. Option (c) is the correct definition. Option (a) and (d) are literal misinterpretations. Option (b) is the opposite of the idiom's meaning.