Lesson eLearning

The phrase “honour among thieves” is used sarcastically in the passage. What does the author intend to convey by this sarcasm?

hard MCQ 3 marks Class 10 · English · A Question of Trust
  1. That thieves never keep promises
  2. That thieves are more moral than honest men
  3. That society respects criminals
  4. That trust is irrelevant in crime
Answer
That thieves never keep promises

The correct answer is That thieves never keep promises — Select the option that reflects this opposite meaning, which is "That thieves never keep promises".

Step-by-step solution

  1. Identify the context in which the phrase appears – after Danby is betrayed by a fellow criminal.
  2. Notice the tone of the surrounding sentences; they are critical and mocking.
  3. Recognise that sarcasm means saying the opposite of the literal meaning.
  4. Interpret the phrase as implying the opposite of "honour", i.e., that thieves do not keep their word.
  5. Select the option that reflects this opposite meaning, which is "That thieves never keep promises".
Common mistake: Choosing the option that suggests thieves are more moral, missing the sarcastic tone

Concept tested: Understanding sarcasm

Published · How this solution was prepared and checked

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