Question

An idiom/phrase is used in three sentences. You need to choose the option that correctly identifies the sentences in which the idiom/phrase has been used appropriately. HAUL OVER THE COALS
A. The scientist hauled over the coals the experimental apparatus to ensure that the damaged components could be examined more carefully.
B. The senior editor hauled the investigative team over the coals after discovering that several factual inconsistencies had been ignored prior to publication.
C. Following the audit, the corporation was hauled over the coals by regulatory authorities for repeated violations of environmental compliance standards.

Q: Answer-An idiom/phrase is used in three sentences. You need to choose the option that correctly identifies...

The idiom haul over the coals means to criticize or scold someone very severely for a mistake or wrongdoing. In sentence A, the usage is incorrect. The phrasxe is wrongly used literally with experimental apparatus. The idiom applies to severe criticism, not physical movement or inspection. In sentence B, the usage is correct. The editor strongly criticizes the investigative team for factual errors. In sentence C, the usage is correct. Regulatory authorities severely criticize or reprimand the corporation for compliance violations. Hence, option d.