English idiom: to pay a visit

[Kelly]

English Language Proficiency Tests, Advanced Level

ESL/EFL Test #100 "The Parliamentary Candidate (3)", question 6

At eleven o'clock he ......... a brief visit to a public house on the estate. Henry couldn't offer to buy anyone a drink because he knew very well that his opponents would consider that to be dishonest. So he let one of his supporters buy him a drink instead.

(a) bought
(b) paid
(c) sought
(d) did

English Language Proficiency Tests, Advanced Level

ESL/EFL Test #100 "The Parliamentary Candidate (3)", answer 6

At eleven o'clock he paid a brief visit to a public house on the estate. Henry couldn't offer to buy anyone a drink because he knew very well that his opponents would consider that to be dishonest. So he let one of his supporters buy him a drink instead.

Correct answer: (b) paid

Your answer was: incorrect
At eleven o'clock he did a brief visit to a public house on the estate. Henry couldn't offer to buy anyone a drink because he knew very well that his opponents would consider that to be dishonest. So he let one of his supporters buy him a drink instead.
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Hi Alan
What does it mean ' paid a brief visit' ? Is it an idiom ?
Can u explain to me ?

Thank you

Kelly

[Alan]

Hi Kelly,

Pay a visit is an accepted expression - meaning make a visit or simply visit.

Alan
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English as a Second Language
You can read my ESL story A day in the life of a flat hunter