English question from JKP Constable exam, 2024 by JKSSB
Which sentence expresses the correct meaning of the given idiom:
Will O’ the Wisp
Last updated Aug 29, 2026
Correct Answer:
Option C —
An illusory pursuit that is captivating but ultimately unattainable, often leads one astray.
Understanding the Idiom: "Will O' the Wisp"
The phrase "Will O' the Wisp" has its roots in folklore, referring to mysterious atmospheric lights seen by travelers at night over bogs or marshes. These lights were often mistaken for a lantern or a person, leading travelers off the safe path and into danger.
Literal Meaning: A phosphorescent light that hovers over swampy ground at night.
Figurative Meaning: A goal, hope, or person that is deceptive or impossible to reach. It describes something that looks promising or beautiful from a distance but disappears or leads to disappointment when you try to grasp it.
Answer verified by Quintessence Classes faculty — Karan Nagar, Srinagar.
