Choose the option nearest in meaning to the underlined word (S).
The government is not opening up to the unions in the negotiations; it must have something up its sleeve.
A
be nursing a hidden a last agenda
B
be hoping to trap them
C
be hiding a last minute package
D
be intending to dissolve the unions
Verified Correct Answer: A.
Grammar & Contextual Explanation
The phrase "something up its sleeve" is an idiom that means someone has a secret plan or hidden agenda. In the given sentence, the speaker is suggesting that the government may have undisclosed intentions or plans in the negotiations with the unions. Option A, "be nursing a hidden agenda," is the closest in meaning to the underlined phrase. It suggests that the government may be harbouring a concealed or undisclosed plan or motive.
Source: Myschool Past Questions Archive (Record #11132)