Answer the question below and choose the option nearest in meaning to the word or phrase underlined. As a journalist, Bala has always had a nose for stories

Analyze the question: The underlined phrase is "a nose for", used in the sentence "Bala has always had a nose for stories." You need the option closest in meaning to this phrase.

Explain the concept: "To have a nose for something" is an idiom. It means having a natural ability or instinct for finding or detecting something, much like a dog uses its nose to sniff things out. A journalist with "a nose for news" can sense where a good story is, even before the facts are obvious.

Step-by-step solution:

1. The idiom is not about a physical nose. It is about a natural talent for detecting something.
2. Check each option: • A. an instinct: a natural ability to sense something. This fits the idiom. • B. a command: a command is an order. It does not fit. • C. soft comment: it has nothing to do with sensing or finding stories. • D. cynical statement: a cynical statement is a doubtful or sneering remark, which makes no sense here.
3. Substitute option A into the sentence: "As a journalist, Bala has always had an instinct for stories." The meaning is preserved.

Correct answer: A. an instinct

Exam tip: Idioms with body parts often have figurative meanings, so don't read them literally. Remember:

• A nose for = a natural instinct for detecting
• An eye for = a good sense of judging or noticing
• An ear for = a talent for sounds or music

If you can swap the idiom for a simple word like "instinct" or "talent" and the sentence still makes sense, you have found the answer.