dig vs. spade

[lou]

English Language Proficiency Tests, Advanced Level

ESL/EFL Test #44 "Scandal", question 2

At least that's what he thought until the press started trying to ......... up something about his past.

(a) push
(b) dig
(c) spade
(d) fork

English Language Proficiency Tests, Advanced Level

ESL/EFL Test #44 "Scandal", answer 2

At least that's what he thought until the press started trying to dig up something about his past.

Correct answer: (b) dig

Your answer was: incorrect
At least that's what he thought until the press started trying to spade up something about his past.
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please explain why the answer is dig not spade

lou

[Yankee]

Hi Lou

Spade is only used as a verb with a very literal meaning and a very specific tool must be used. The verb spade means 'to dig, cut or remove with a spade'.

The verb dig can be used figuratively and also is not connected to one specific tool.

Amy
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"Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power." ~ Abraham Lincoln