NIMCET 2008 — English PYQ

The correct answer is (b) To make profit when others in trouble.

1. Meaning of the Idiom:

The phrase "To fish in troubled waters" is used to describe a person who tries to gain an advantage or make a profit from a difficult, confused, or disturbed situation involving others.

2. Logical Breakdown:

Imagine a body of water that is "troubled" (stormy or murky). While most people avoid such dangerous conditions, someone "fishing" in it is trying to catch something for their own benefit despite the chaos.

• Metaphorical meaning:

  $$\text{Troubled Waters}=\text{A state of confusion, war, or crisis}$$

• Metaphorical action:

  $$\text{Fishing}=\text{Seeking personal gain or advantage}$$