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Collocations And Phrasal Verbs – Quiz 1
Collocations And Phrasal Verbs Quiz 1 (30 MCQs)
This multiple-choice question set evaluates students' understanding of collocations and phrasal verbs in various contexts, including idiomatic expressions, medical settings, and social interactions. It assesses the ability to recognize appropriate verb-noun combinations, understand job-related vocabulary, and use phrasal verbs correctly.
Quiz Instructions
Select an option to see the correct answer instantly.
1.
..... balance - weighing the pros and cons
A) From.
B) On.
C) At.
D) In.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "balance - weighing the pros and cons" is a common collocation in English, where "balance" is used with the gerund form of another verb ("weighing"). The correct preposition to use here is "on," as in "balance on weighing the pros and cons." This construction emphasizes that the act of balancing (making a decision) involves considering both positive and negative aspects.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
From - Incorrect. "From" does not fit naturally with this collocation.
Option B:
On - Correct. This is the standard preposition used in this context.
Option C:
At - Incorrect. "At" would be inappropriate here as it does not align with the meaning of balancing pros and cons.
Option D:
In - Incorrect. "In" would also be incorrect for this specific collocation.
2.
What is the meaning of call in?
A) Yell.
B) Phone.
C) Make a noise.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "call in" is a phrasal verb that means to make a phone call, typically for the purpose of asking someone to come to work or join a meeting. Therefore, option B) Phone is correct.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Yell does not fit the meaning of "call in".
Option B:
Correct, as it means making a phone call to request someone's presence.
Option C:
Make a noise is unrelated to the meaning of "call in".
Option D:
Incorrect, as there is a correct answer among the options provided.
3.
-Kim: "Why don't we set up an English speaking club for our class?" -An:" ..... "
A) As it may improve my English.
B) At least 30 of us.
C) That's a good idea.
D) It is an international language.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option C is the correct response as it directly and positively affirms Kim's suggestion, indicating agreement and support for setting up an English speaking club. This type of response aligns well with initiating a discussion or project idea in a group setting.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
This option is too personal, focusing on individual benefit rather than supporting the group's initiative.
Option B:
While this might be relevant for planning, it does not directly respond to Kim’s suggestion with a positive affirmation.
Option C:
This response clearly shows agreement and support for the idea, making it the most appropriate choice.
Option D:
Although phrasal verbs are related to language use, this option is too broad and does not directly address Kim’s suggestion in a positive manner.
4.
..... smth into smth
A) Convert.
B) Exchange.
C) Adapt.
D) Repair.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "..... smth into smth" typically refers to the process of changing one thing into another, which aligns with the meaning of "convert." To convert means to change something from one form, shape, or state to another. For example, converting paper into digital documents.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. Convert accurately describes changing one thing into another.
Option B:
Exchange usually implies trading or replacing items of equal value, not necessarily transforming them.
Option C:
Adapt means to adjust oneself to new conditions, which is different from the act of transformation described in "convert."
Option D:
Repair involves fixing something that is broken or damaged, which does not fit the context of changing one thing into another.
5.
Find the synonym to "very quickly or very soon"
A) At the first time.
B) At times.
C) At all times.
D) In no time.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option D, "In no time," is the correct synonym for "very quickly or very soon." This phrase indicates that something will happen almost immediately or extremely fast.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
"At the first time" suggests an initial occurrence but does not imply speed.
Option B:
"At times" means occasionally, which is unrelated to quickness.
Option C:
"At all times" implies constant presence or action, not rapidity.
Option D:
"In no time" accurately conveys the meaning of very quickly or soon.
6.
I'm ..... shopping on Saturday
A) Went.
B) Going to.
C) Go.
D) Going.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "I'm going shopping on Saturday" is a common collocation in English, where the verb "go" is used with "shopping." This structure indicates a future action and is grammatically correct for this context.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Incorrect. "Went" implies a past action, which does not fit the sentence's tense.
Option B:
Correct. "Going to" is used for future plans and fits well with "shopping on Saturday."
Option C:
Incorrect. "Go" alone without "to" is typically used in present simple or past simple tenses, not for expressing a future plan.
Option D:
Correct. "Going" matches the context of planning an activity for Saturday.
7.
These toys ..... my kids amused- These toys keep my kids entertained. (keep them in a state where they're having fun)
A) Have.
B) Hold.
C) Keep.
D) Do.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The correct answer is
C) Keep.
The phrase "These toys keep my kids entertained" is a common collocation in English, where the verb "keep" is used to indicate that something continues an action or state. This usage aligns with the context of the sentence, which suggests that the toys maintain the state of entertainment for the children.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
"Have" does not fit well in this context as it implies possession rather than maintaining an ongoing action.
Option B:
"Hold" is not typically used to describe keeping someone entertained in this manner.
Option C:
"Keep" correctly conveys the idea of maintaining entertainment, making it the appropriate choice.
Option D:
"Do" would imply a different action and does not fit the context as well as "keep."
8.
The printer will never work! You haven't ..... .
A) Come up with.
B) Plugged it in.
C) Look into it.
D) Carry on.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "plugged it in" is a common collocation with the verb "haven't," indicating that the printer will not work because it has not been connected to an electrical source. This phrasal verb implies a physical action necessary for the printer to function.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
"Come up with" means to devise or originate an idea, which does not fit logically in this context.
Option B:
"Plugged it in" correctly completes the sentence as a necessary step for the printer to work. This is the correct answer.
Option C:
"Look into it" means to investigate or examine, which does not fit the context of the printer's functionality.
Option D:
"Carry on" means to continue doing something, which also does not relate to the printer's operation.
9.
Succeed ..... smth-succeed in something
A) For.
B) To.
C) In.
D) At.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The correct answer is
C) In.
The phrase "succeed in something" is a common collocation where the verb "succeed" is followed by the preposition "in." This structure indicates achieving or accomplishing a particular goal or task.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
For - Incorrect. "For" does not typically follow "succeed" in this context.
Option B:
To - Incorrect. "To" is used with infinitive verbs, but not directly after "succeed."
Option C:
In - Correct. This is the proper preposition to use with "succeed."
Option D:
At - Incorrect. While "at" can be used in some contexts (e.g., "succeed at something"), it is not the most common or appropriate choice here.
10.
Complete the sentence with the correct collocation:I would definitely ..... a cake for Mother's Day and surprise my mom.
A) Make.
B) Do.
C) Have.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The correct collocation is "make a cake." The verb "make" is commonly used with the noun "cake" to refer to the process of preparing and baking it, which fits well in the context of the sentence where the speaker intends to prepare something for their mother.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. "Make a cake" is the appropriate collocation.
Option B:
Incorrect. "Do" does not typically collocate with "cake." It would be used in different contexts, such as "do homework."
Option C:
Incorrect. "Have a cake" implies already possessing or consuming the cake, which is not what the sentence conveys.
Option D:
Incorrect. There is a correct answer among the options provided.
11.
I had to stop running to ..... my breath.
A) Catch.
B) Hold.
C) Run.
D) Keep.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "catch one's breath" is a common collocation in English, meaning to regain control of one's breathing after exertion. In the given sentence, stopping running is necessary because the speaker needs to catch their breath due to fatigue or shortness of breath from running.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. "Catch" fits naturally with "breath" in this context.
Option B:
Incorrect. "Hold one's breath" implies intentionally stopping breathing, which is not the intended meaning here.
Option C:
Incorrect. "Run" does not fit grammatically or logically in this sentence.
Option D:
Incorrect. "Keep" does not form a natural collocation with "breath" in this context.
12.
My friend finds his job really ..... that's why he is totally involved in it.
A) Rewarding.
B) Thrilled.
C) Upsetting.
D) Amused.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "totally involved" suggests a positive and engaging experience, which aligns with the meaning of "rewarding." When someone finds their job rewarding, they are likely to be deeply engaged in it because the job provides satisfaction or pleasure.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. "Rewarding" fits well with "totally involved," as a rewarding job often leads to full engagement.
Option B:
Incorrect. "Thrilled" implies excitement but doesn't necessarily suggest the level of involvement implied by "totally involved."
Option C:
Incorrect. "Upsetting" would imply negative feelings, which contradicts being totally involved in a job.
Option D:
Incorrect. "Amused" means to be entertained or amused, which doesn't fit the context of someone being deeply engaged in their work.
13.
As soon as school breaks ..... for summer, I'm going to Greece on holiday for three weeks.
A) Up.
B) Down.
C) Out.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The correct answer is
A) Up.
The phrase "as soon as school breaks up" is a common collocation in English, meaning the end of the academic term. This collocation is often used to indicate that an event or activity will start immediately after the conclusion of school.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. "Breaks up" is a common phrasal verb for the end of a school term.
Option B:
Incorrect. "Down" does not fit in this context as it doesn't describe the conclusion of an academic term.
Option C:
Incorrect. "Out" is sometimes used but less commonly than "breaks up" for school terms.
Option D:
Incorrect. There is a correct answer among the options provided.
14.
I'm not sure how much of his explanation she .....
A) Got in.
B) Get.
C) Took in.
D) Take.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Take in" is the correct collocation here, meaning to understand and absorb information. The phrase "took in" fits naturally into the sentence, indicating that she understood part of his explanation.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
"Got in" means to enter or insert, which does not fit the context of understanding an explanation.
Option B:
"Get" is a verb on its own but needs a preposition like "in" to form a collocation that makes sense here. "Get in" means to enter, so it's incorrect without further context.
Option C:
"Took in" correctly forms the past tense of "take in," meaning to understand and absorb information, fitting well into the sentence.
Option D:
"Take" alone is a verb that needs an object or preposition like "in" to form a correct collocation. Without further context, it's not appropriate here.
15.
Developing a new vaccine has been ..... priority for scientists all over the world this year.
A) High.
B) Top.
C) Both are correct.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Both "High" and "Top" are correct because they can be used interchangeably in this context to indicate that developing a new vaccine is one of the most important priorities for scientists. "High priority" means it has a significant level of importance, while "top priority" emphasizes it as the highest level of importance.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
High can be used to indicate an elevated level of importance.
Option B:
Top is used to denote the highest level of importance.
Option C:
Both are correct as they convey similar levels of priority.
Option D:
None of above is incorrect since both options A and B are valid choices.
16.
The national action plan contains a specific section ..... to the rights of women.
A) Adapted.
B) Dedicated.
C) Intended.
D) Involved.
Show Answer
Explanations:
" Dedicated " is the correct choice because it means a section specifically set aside for a particular purpose, which fits well with the idea of a national action plan having a specific part devoted to women's rights.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Adapted - implies changes or adjustments but doesn't specify a designated section.
Option B:
Dedicated - means specifically set aside for a particular purpose, fitting the context perfectly.
Option C:
Intended - suggests what is meant to be done but not necessarily that it has been allocated as a specific section.
Option D:
Involved - indicates participation or engagement but doesn't imply a designated, separate section.
17.
Complete the sentence with the correct collocation: ..... me a favor and give me a ride home?
A) Would you do.
B) Could he do.
C) Can you do.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The correct collocation is "Can you do." This phrase is commonly used to request someone's assistance in a polite manner, fitting the context of asking for a ride home.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
"Would you do" is not typically used as a direct request. It sounds more formal and less common in this context.
Option B:
"Could he do" is grammatically incorrect here because the subject is "you," not "he." Additionally, it's not the standard way to make such a request.
Option C:
"Can you do" is correct and commonly used for making polite requests. It fits naturally in this context.
Option D:
"None of above" is incorrect since Option C is valid.
18.
David:"It's terrible. I don't think I will be able to pass the exam." -Mary: " ..... "
A) Let's try it.
B) Don't worry. Everything will be all right.
C) Ok. What's that?.
D) Why not pass it?.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option B, "Don't worry. Everything will be all right," is the most appropriate response in this context because it provides reassurance and encouragement to David, who is expressing doubt about passing his exam. This phrasal verb combination conveys a supportive message that can help alleviate anxiety.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
"Let's try it." - This option suggests an action but doesn't directly address David's concern or provide emotional support.
Option B:
"Don't worry. Everything will be all right." - This is the most supportive and encouraging response, addressing David's anxiety effectively.
Option C:
"Ok. What's that?." - This option shows confusion rather than support or encouragement, which is not helpful in this situation.
Option D:
"Why not pass it?." - This response challenges David's statement without offering any supportive advice or reassurance.
19.
They have to make ..... they are ready to experience it. make sense
A) Sense.
B) True.
C) Right.
D) Sure.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "They have to make sure they are ready to experience it" is grammatically correct and makes sense in context. "Make sure" is a common collocation that means to ensure or confirm something, fitting well with the sentence's intent.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Sense - Does not fit as a collocation with "make."
Option B:
True - Not a phrasal verb and does not fit grammatically.
Option C:
Right - While it can be used, it is less common than "sure" in this context.
Option D:
Sure - Correct collocation with "make."
20.
After a fallout with his friend, Ricardo ..... the party he'd planned for her.
A) Called off.
B) Went ahead with.
C) Spread out.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrasal verb "call off" is correctly used in this context to indicate that Ricardo canceled the party due to his fallout with a friend. This choice fits naturally and grammatically within the sentence, making it the most appropriate option.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. "Call off" means to cancel or stop an event.
Option B:
Incorrect. "Go ahead with" would imply Ricardo proceeded with the party despite his issues, which contradicts the context of a fallout.
Option C:
Incorrect. "Spread out" does not fit grammatically or contextually in this sentence.
Option D:
Incorrect. There is a correct answer among the options provided.
21.
If Maria doesn't put a hat on she's going to ..... a cold.
A) Have.
B) Make.
C) Catch.
D) Take.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "catch a cold" is a common collocation in English, meaning to become ill with a cold. This makes option C the correct answer as it fits naturally into the sentence structure and conveys the intended meaning.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
"Have" does not fit well here; one cannot "have a cold" in this context.
Option B:
"Make" is incorrect as it doesn't make sense to say you are going to "make a cold."
Option C:
"Catch" is correct because "catch a cold" is a common collocation meaning to become ill with a cold.
Option D:
"Take" does not fit well here; one cannot "take a cold."
22.
What will you do if you don't get ..... university next year?
A) In.
B) Into.
C) To.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The correct answer is
B) Into.
The phrase "get into university" is a common collocation in English, meaning to be accepted and enroll at a university. Other options like "In" or "To" do not form natural phrasal verbs with the verb "get."
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Incorrect. "Get In" is not a common collocation for university acceptance.
Option B:
Correct. "Get Into University" is a correct phrasal verb.
Option C:
Incorrect. "Get To" does not form a natural phrase with the context of university acceptance.
Option D:
Not applicable as option B is correct.
23.
When I go on holidays I love ..... in posh hotels.
A) Going to.
B) Living.
C) Staying.
D) Going.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Staying in posh hotels" is the correct collocation here, as "stay" naturally pairs with "in a hotel." This phrase indicates the act of lodging or residing at a hotel during holidays.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
"Going to" does not form a natural collocation with "hotels" in this context.
Option B:
"Living" is too broad and typically implies permanent residence, not temporary stays like on holidays.
Option C:
"Staying" correctly forms the collocation with "in posh hotels."
Option D:
"Going" alone does not fit well in this context; it needs to be paired with a location, such as "going to."
24.
When I have a cough I sometimes ..... medicine
A) Take.
B) Do.
C) Give.
D) Catch.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The correct answer is
A) Take.
The phrase "take medicine" is a common collocation in English, meaning to consume or ingest medication prescribed by a doctor or recommended for treating an illness such as a cough. This usage is grammatically correct and commonly used.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. "Take medicine" is a standard collocation.
Option B:
Incorrect. "Do medicine" is not a common or correct collocation in English.
Option C:
Incorrect. "Give medicine" typically refers to administering medication, which is different from the action of consuming it oneself.
Option D:
Incorrect. "Catch medicine" does not make sense as a phrase and is not used in English.
25.
Choose the place for playing golf:
A) A field.
B) A course.
C) A court.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Golf is played on a course, which includes the fairways, greens, and other features designed for the game. This term is specific to golf and accurately describes where one would play this sport.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
A field can be too vague; it does not specifically refer to a location designed for playing golf.
Option B:
Correct. A course is the designated area for playing golf, including all necessary features like greens and fairways.
Option C:
A court typically refers to a place for sports such as tennis or basketball, not golf.
Option D:
Not applicable since "course" accurately describes the location.
26.
This job requires a considerable ..... of work.-This job requires a considerable amount of work.
A) Degree.
B) Amount.
C) Extent.
D) Number.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The correct answer is
B) Amount.
The phrase "a considerable amount of work" is a common collocation in English, meaning there is a significant quantity or degree of effort required for the job. Other options like "degree," "extent," and "number" do not fit as well with "considerable" to form a natural and commonly used expression.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Degree - This is less common in this context.
Option B:
Amount - Correct, forms the natural collocation "a considerable amount of work."
Option C:
Extent - While it can be used, it's not as commonly paired with "considerable" in this way.
Option D:
Number - This would imply a specific count rather than a general quantity or degree.
27.
The key to success is to be in the right place ..... the right time.
A) In.
B) At.
C) Of.
D) On.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "to be in the right place at the right time" is a common collocation, meaning being present when an opportunity arises. The preposition "at" fits perfectly here to indicate the precise moment or occasion.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
In - Incorrect; "in" does not fit well with "the right time."
Option B:
At - Correct; "at" is used correctly to indicate the precise moment.
Option C:
Of - Incorrect; "of" does not make sense in this context.
Option D:
On - Incorrect; "on" typically refers to a specific day or surface, not timing.
28.
The national action plan contains a specific section ..... to the rights of women. This national plan contains a separate section on women's rights.
A) Intended.
B) Dedicated.
C) Involved.
D) Adapted.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Dedicated" is the correct choice because it means a section has been specifically set aside for women's rights, indicating a focused and intentional allocation of space in the national action plan.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Intended - implies purpose but not necessarily a specific section.
Option B:
Dedicated - specifically set aside for women's rights, indicating focus and intentionality.
Option C:
Involved - suggests participation or engagement but does not imply a separate section.
Option D:
Adapted - means modified to fit a purpose, which is not the context here.
29.
You can't afford to run businesses inefficiently ..... this day and age (at the present time)
A) From.
B) At.
C) In.
D) On.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "this day and age" is commonly used with the preposition "in." Therefore, option C) In is correct because it fits naturally into the sentence: "You can't afford to run businesses inefficiently in this day and age."
Option Analysis:
Option A:
From - Incorrect. "From" does not fit well with "this day and age."
Option B:
At - Incorrect. "At" is typically used for specific times or points in time, not for general periods like "this day and age."
Option C:
In - Correct. This fits naturally with the phrase "this day and age."
Option D:
On - Incorrect. "On" is used for specific days or occasions, not general periods like "this day and age."
30.
I went to bed late last night, so I slept in the next day
A) Stay in bed in the morning.
B) Not go to bed.
C) Take a break.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "slept in" is a collocation that means to oversleep or to sleep longer than usual, often resulting from staying up late the previous night. Therefore, option A) Stay in bed in the morning, aligns with the meaning of "slept in," as it suggests continuing to rest after oversleeping.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. Staying in bed in the morning is a logical consequence of sleeping in due to staying up late.
Option B:
Incorrect. Not going to bed does not follow from having slept in the next day after staying up late.
Option C:
Incorrect. Taking a break could be related but is not as directly linked to "slept in" as option A.
Option D:
Incorrect. There is a correct answer among the options provided.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are collocations and phrasal verbs?
Collocations refer to words that frequently appear together in a language, while phrasal verbs consist of a verb combined with one or more prepositions or adverbs. Both are important for natural-sounding English.
How do collocations and phrasal verbs differ in usage?
Collocations are about word pairings that sound natural, whereas phrasal verbs often have meanings different from their individual parts. For example, "take medicine" is a collocation, while "look up" is a phrasal verb with a specific meaning.
Can you give an example of how to use collocations and phrasal verbs in context?
Certainly! In cooking, you might say "mix the ingredients thoroughly" (collocation) or "put the cake in the oven" (phrasal verb). These examples show natural ways to express actions using these linguistic structures.
Why are collocations and phrasal verbs important for future plans and intentions?
Understanding collocations and phrasal verbs is crucial because they help in expressing future plans and intentions more naturally. For instance, saying "I'm going to set aside some time" sounds more natural than using individual words.
How can I improve my use of collocations and phrasal verbs?
Practice by reading extensively in English, especially texts that focus on natural language. Also, try to incorporate these structures into your own writing and speech as you learn them.