The man has lost a lot and he only keeps up appearances by driving a big car. This means that the man

Analyze the question: The sentence uses the idiom "keeps up appearances." We must choose the meaning that best fits the sentence.

Explain the concept: "To keep up appearances" means to behave or display things in a way that hides an unpleasant truth, usually to make people believe your situation is still good. For example, a person who has become poor but still dresses lavishly so nobody notices is keeping up appearances.

Solution:

1. "The man has lost a lot": he has suffered a serious loss (money, status, or property).
2. "He only keeps up appearances by driving a big car": the big car is just a show, covering up the real situation.
3. So he is giving the impression that nothing is wrong, even though things are bad.

Checking the options:

• A. intends to work harder: nothing in the sentence suggests this.
• B. pretends that all is well: this matches the idiom exactly. He hides his losses behind a big car.
• C. wants everybody to see him: this is partly about attention, but it misses the point of hiding the loss.
• D. wants to please his people: there is no mention of pleasing anyone.

Answer: B. pretends that all is well

Tip: In idiom questions, look for the option that captures the hidden reality versus outward show. "Keep up appearances" always means pretending things are fine when they are not.