After the sentence below, a list of possible interpretations is given. Choose the interpretation that you…

Analyze the question: The sentence uses an idiom, "let off the hook." You are asked to pick the meaning that best fits it.

Explain the concept: The idiom "to let someone off the hook" means to free that person from blame, trouble, an obligation, or punishment. The image comes from fishing. A fish caught on a hook is trapped, and once it is let off the hook, it is free to go.

Step-by-step solution:

1. "Let off the hook" is figurative, so the fishing meaning is not intended. • B. gone fishing alone is a trap. It takes the words literally, and nothing in the sentence is about fishing.

2. The sentence says "we were surprised to learn," which suggests Tom was expected to face consequences but escaped them.

3. Check the remaining options: • C. been sent away is the opposite. It suggests a penalty such as expulsion. • D. not been dismissed is close, but it is too narrow. It only covers losing a job, while the idiom covers escaping any punishment or blame. • A. not been punished matches the general meaning of escaping the consequences.

Correct answer: A. not been punished

Tip: For idiom questions, never take the words literally. Ask yourself, "What is the situation, and what is the figure of speech really saying?" Also watch out for options that are only partly right, like D. The best answer is the one that covers the full meaning of the idiom. Similar idioms to remember are "off the hook" (free from trouble) and "on the hook" (responsible or in trouble).