Select the most appropriate idiom that can substitute the italicised words in the given sentence.

I have been a vegetarian for a very long time.

The correct answer is: Donkey’s years

Key Points

• Let us look at the meaning of the given idioms.
  • Donkey’s years: A very long time.
  • Duck in the thunderstorm: Looking hopelessly sad and dejected.
  • Die in harness: To die while still working or on duty or before retirement.
  • Damocles’ sword: Any situation threatening imminent harm or disaster.
• So, as per the meaning of the given idioms "Donkey’s years" is the most appropriate option.

Therefore, the correct answer is option 1.

Hinglish

• The idiomatic expression "donkey's years" is used in English to denote a very long time.
• The phrase originates from the idea that donkeys live a long time, and also from rhyming slang where "years" rhymes with "donkey ears."
• In Hindi, the closest expression may be "बहुत समय", meaning a lot of time, or "लंबे समय तक", meaning for a long time.
  • Example: "I haven't seen you in donkey's years!"
  • This means I haven't seen you for a very long time.
• In Hindi, you might express it like: "मुझे लगता है कि मैंने तुम्हें बहुत समय से नहीं देखा है!"
  • This means I feel I haven't seen you for a very long time.