Match the following :
a. Hold out I. To express one's opinions at length
b. Hold to II. Believable
c. Hold water III. Remain loyal to
d. Hold forth IV. To offer
Answer options :

The correct answer is Option B (IV, III, II, I).

Key Points:
• This question evaluates the candidate's mastery of Phrasal Verbs and Idioms, a highly complex yet frequently tested topic in MPSC exams. Differentiating verbs paired with various prepositions is essential.
• Option 2 is the correct answer according to the official MPSC answer key. The correct matching sequence is a-IV, b-III, c-II, d-I.
• Let us analyze each phrasal verb's meaning:
• (a) 'Hold out' means to offer (a chance, hope, or possibility) - IV.
• (b) 'Hold to' means to remain loyal to or strictly follow (a promise or belief) - III.
• (c) 'Hold water' is an idiom meaning an argument or theory is believable, sound, or logical - II.
• (d) 'Hold forth' means to speak or express one's opinions at length, often tediously - I.
• A common MPSC trap is providing options that shuffle just the last two matches, punishing students who rely on identifying only the first pair.
• Memorizing phrasal verbs in distinct contexts rather than rote lists ensures higher accuracy.
• Key Takeaway: Remember: Hold out = offer; Hold to = remain loyal; Hold water = be believable; Hold forth = speak at length.