After each of the following sentences, a list of possible interpretations is given. Choose the interpretation that is most appropriate for each sentence.

Here are the answers to the questions:

21) The phrase "eke out a living" means to earn just enough money or resources to survive, often with difficulty.
The correct option is A.

22) The phrase "above board" means legitimate, honest, and open.
The correct option is D.

23) To "come by money" means to acquire or obtain money. In this context, it refers to earning money.
The correct option is C.

24) The statement "Either Effiong or his wife is a liar" means that at least one of them is telling lies.
The correct option is A.

25) "Out of bounds" means that an area is forbidden or off-limits. Therefore, noncommissioned officers were restricted from the mess.
The correct option is D.

26) To get something "through the backdoor" is an idiom meaning to obtain it by secret, indirect, or illicit means, often implying unfairness.
The correct option is D.

27) To "start the ball rolling" is an idiom meaning to begin an activity or process. In a debate, this means to begin the discussion.
The correct option is B.

28) "Pandemonium" means wild and noisy disorder or confusion; an uproar.
The correct option is B.

29) To "run a tight ship" is an idiom meaning to manage an organization or activity in a strict and efficient way. This implies being firm.
The correct option is A.

30) To "play it by ear" is an idiom meaning to decide how to deal with a situation as it develops, rather than planning it in advance. This means acting according to circumstances.
The correct option is A.

31) A "sketchy account" means an account that is not thorough or detailed; superficial. "Cursory" means hasty and therefore not thorough or detailed.
The correct option is C.

32) A "pledge" is a solemn promise or undertaking.
The correct option is D.