For this question, select the option that best explains the information conveyed in the sentence. Peter is a man of letters.

Answer Details

The expression "a man of letters" is an established English idiom. It refers to a person who is deeply involved in literary and scholarly pursuits - someone distinguished in the world of literature, whether as a writer, critic, or scholar. The phrase has nothing to do with the literal act of writing or receiving postal letters.

Among the options, the one stating that Peter is a great literary artist correctly captures the meaning of this idiom. A "man of letters" is someone recognised for literary achievement or scholarly learning, which aligns with the idea of being a literary artist.

The options about letter writing as a hobby or writing letters frequently interpret the phrase literally, missing its idiomatic meaning entirely. The option about liking to read a lot is closer but still too narrow; "a man of letters" implies active participation in literary culture, not merely reading.

Exam tip: When a sentence uses an idiomatic expression, resist the temptation to interpret the words literally. Identify the figurative meaning the phrase carries in standard English usage.