What is the meaning of the underlined idiomatic expression in the following sentence ? 'He isafraid of his own shadow.'

Question

Accepted Answer

The idiomatic expression "afraid of his own shadow" is used to describe someone who is extremely timid and easily frightened. This expression paints a vivid picture of a person who is so fearful that even the most harmless and insignificant things, like their own shadow, can cause them anxiety or fear. This aligns perfectly with Option 2: "Very timid and suspicious."

### Explanation for Option 2:
- **Timidity**: The phrase suggests a level of fearfulness that is excessive and irrational, which is characteristic of someone who is very timid. Such a person might avoid situations or actions due to an overwhelming sense of fear or anxiety.
- **Suspicion**: The expression also implies a level of suspicion, as someone who is afraid of their own shadow might be overly cautious or wary of their surroundings, perceiving threats where there are none.

### Explanation for Why Other Options are Incorrect:

1. **Option 1: Constant attendant or companion**
   - This option does not fit the idiom because being "afraid of one's own shadow" does not imply having a companion or attendant. Instead, it focuses on an individual's internal fearfulness, not their relationship with others.

2. **Option 3: Unwilling to do anything**
   - While someone who is very timid might also be unwilling to take action, the idiom specifically highlights fearfulness rather than a general unwillingness. The reluctance to act is a consequence of fear, not the primary meaning of the expression.

3. **Option 4: Lives with a painful memory of something**
   - This option suggests a person is haunted by past experiences, which is not the focus of the idiom. "Afraid of his own shadow" does not imply living with painful memories but rather an exaggerated fearfulness in the present.

In conclusion, Option 2 is the correct interpretation of the idiom "afraid of his own shadow," as it accurately captures the essence of being very timid and suspicious.