Choose the correct meaning of the phrase 'idled away'

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is 1:
The phrase "idled away" is a phrasal verb in English, where "idle" means to spend time doing nothing or to be inactive, and "away" emphasizes the consumption or passage of that time. Therefore, to "idle away" time specifically means to waste it by being lazy, doing nothing productive, or simply passing time aimlessly. The essence of this phrase is the ineffective and non-beneficial use of time. For example, one might say, "He idled away the entire weekend playing video games instead of studying." Thus, the most accurate and direct meaning among the options is "wasted."

The incorrect option is 2 (admired): "Admired" means to regard someone or something with respect or warm approval. This word carries a positive connotation related to esteem and appreciation, which is entirely unrelated to the meaning of "idled away," which is about the non-productive spending of time.

The incorrect option is 3 (rested): "Rested" means to relax or take a break from work or effort to regain strength. While resting can involve inactivity, it implies a necessary and often beneficial recovery period. "Idled away," however, usually implies a negative wastefulness, making "rested" conceptually distinct from the meaning of the phrase.

The incorrect option is 4 (None of the above): Since Option 1, "wasted," is the correct definition of the phrasal verb "idled away," this option is invalid.