After each of the following sentence, a list of possible interpretations is given. choose the interpretation…

Analyze the question: The sentence uses an idiom, "extended the olive branch." You are asked to choose the meaning that fits it best.

Explain the concept: The olive branch has long been a symbol of peace. It goes back to ancient Greek and Roman tradition, and the dove carrying an olive branch in the Bible's story of Noah is another well-known example. To "extend the olive branch" means to offer peace, reconciliation, or a truce to an opponent.

Solution, step by step:

1. The sentence says government troops "extended the olive branch" to the rebels, who are their opponents.
2. Because the idiom signals a peace offer, the troops were trying to end the conflict, not continue it.
3. Check each option: • A. has reached a critical stage: This has nothing to do with peace. It describes a dangerous or decisive point in a situation. ❌ • B. killed a lot of rebels: This is the opposite of offering peace. ❌ • C. were ready for peace: This matches the meaning of the idiom. ✅ • D. defended their territory bravely: This is about defence and fighting, not reconciliation. ❌

Answer: The government troops were ready for peace.

Tip: For idiom questions, picture the image behind the phrase. An olive branch means peace, so "offering an olive branch" means "making a peace offer." Other similar idioms are "bury the hatchet" (make peace) and "wave the white flag" (surrender).