Question

Choose the exact meaning of the idiom/phrase.

To flog a dead horse

• A. to act smartly
• B. to act in a foolish way
• C. to criticize strongly
• D. waste energy on a lost cause

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

waste energy on a lost cause

'To flog a dead horse' means to waste effort on something when there is no chance of succeeding. E.g. He keeps trying to get it published but I think he's flogging a dead horse.

Thus, option D is the correct answer as it signifies the same meaning.