"Hyenas come with merry smiles ;
But if they weep they're Crocodiles."
What does the above lines tell us about hyenas?

Question

Accepted Answer

The lines "Hyenas come with merry smiles; But if they weep they're Crocodiles" suggest that hyenas are deceptive, which aligns with Option 4. Here's a detailed explanation:

1. **Explanation for Option 4 (Hyenas are deceptive):**
   - The phrase "merry smiles" implies that hyenas appear friendly or happy on the surface. However, the comparison to crocodiles when they "weep" suggests a hidden, deceitful nature. This is a reference to the term "crocodile tears," which describes insincere expressions of sorrow. Thus, the lines imply that hyenas may present a false appearance, smiling outwardly while potentially having ulterior motives or being untrustworthy. This aligns with the idea of deception.

2. **Why Option 1 (Hyenas are friendly) is incorrect:**
   - While the phrase "merry smiles" might initially suggest friendliness, the subsequent comparison to crocodiles undermines this interpretation. The mention of crocodiles, known for their deceptive "crocodile tears," indicates that the smiles of hyenas are not genuine, thus negating the idea of true friendliness.

3. **Why Option 2 (Hyenas are crocodiles) is incorrect:**
   - The lines do not literally suggest that hyenas are crocodiles. Instead, they use a metaphor to highlight a shared trait of deception. The comparison is symbolic, not literal, focusing on behavior rather than identity.

4. **Why Option 3 (Hyenas are happy) is incorrect:**
   - Although "merry smiles" might imply happiness, the context of the lines suggests that this happiness is not genuine. The reference to crocodiles indicates that the smiles are a facade, masking true intentions. Therefore, the emphasis is on the deceptive nature of the smiles rather than genuine happiness.

In conclusion, the lines emphasize the deceptive nature of hyenas, making Option 4 the correct answer. The comparison to crocodiles highlights the insincerity behind their outward expressions, reinforcing the idea of deception.