Choose the correct idiom: ‘To burn the midnight oil’ means:

The idiom 'to burn the midnight oil' means to work or study late into the night. This phrase originates from a time when oil lamps were the primary source of artificial light, and working late meant literally burning oil to keep the lamp lit past normal hours. It signifies dedication, hard work, and often a sacrifice of sleep to achieve a goal, such as completing a project, preparing for an exam, or meeting a deadline. For example, a student might burn the midnight oil before a major test, or an artist might do so to finish a painting. The idiom emphasizes the effort and commitment involved in staying up late to focus on a task. It does not imply wasting time, working early, or sleeping; rather, it highlights intense, prolonged effort during hours typically reserved for rest. Therefore, 'to study late' or 'to work late' is the correct interpretation, capturing the essence of diligent, nocturnal labor.