Let this case stand over for the present, the lawyer pleaded.

Step 1: Analyze the question We need the option that best explains what the lawyer means by "Let this case stand over for the present."

Step 2: Explain the concept "Stand over" is a legal idiom. When a matter "stands over," it is put off or adjourned until a later time. "For the present" means "for now" or "for the time being."

Step 3: Work through the sentence

• "Let this case stand over" means let the case be deferred or adjourned.
• "For the present" means for now.
• Put together, the lawyer is asking the court to hold the case back and deal with it later.

Step 4: Test each option

• A. The case should be discussed immediately. This is the opposite of the sentence's meaning.
• B. The case should be struck out. To strike out a case is to dismiss it from the court list altogether. The lawyer only asks for a delay, not a dismissal.
• C. The case should be postponed. This matches "stand over" (adjourn or defer) and "for the present" (for now).
• D. The case is pending in court. This describes the state of the case, which is still undecided. It does not capture the lawyer's request to delay it.

Step 5: Answer The correct option is **C. The case should be postponed.

Exam tip: Learn common legal phrases for the English "interpretation of sentences" questions:

• Stand over = adjourn or postpone
• Strike out = dismiss from the court list
• Pending = awaiting decision
• Adjourn sine die = postpone indefinitely