After each of the following sentences, a list of possible interpretations is given. Choose the interpretation…

Analyze the question The sentence uses an idiom: "there are no flies on someone." You are asked what it means about the boss.

Explain the concept "There are no flies on [someone]" is an English idiom meaning that the person is alert, quick-witted, and cannot easily be fooled or deceived. The picture is of an active, sharp person who does not stand still long enough for flies to settle on them. Such a person is smart and sharp.

Step-by-step solution

1. The warning "Be careful of what you say" suggests the boss will notice any trick, lie, or careless talk.
2. The idiom means the boss is shrewd, alert, and intelligent.
3. Checking the options: • A. strict: the idiom is about intelligence, not discipline. • B. smart: matches the meaning of being quick and shrewd. • C. gullible: this is the opposite, since gullible people are easily fooled. • D. neat: this is a literal misreading, taking "flies" to mean insects and cleanliness. It is a trap option.

Answer: B. smart.

Exam tip Do not interpret idioms literally. When you see "flies," don't think "dirt" and choose "neat." Ask what the whole phrase means in context. Other idioms of this type include "no flies on him" = "he is nobody's fool" and "pull someone's leg" = "tease or joke."