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Idiomatic Expressions โ Quiz 1
Idiomatic Expressions Quiz 1 (30 MCQs)
This multiple-choice question set evaluates the understanding of idiomatic expressions in English, including their meanings and appropriate usage in context. It covers skills such as interpreting figurative language, recognizing common idioms, and applying them accurately to specific scenarios.
Quiz Instructions
Select an option to see the correct answer instantly.
1.
To feel like, want
A) Be afraid of.
B) To have good luck.
C) To need.
D) Want to.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiomatic expression "To feel like, want" is correctly answered by Option D) Want to. This phrase is commonly used to express a desire or intention. For example, saying "I feel like going for a walk" means the speaker wants to go for a walk.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Be afraid of - Incorrect as it expresses fear rather than a desire.
Option B:
To have good luck - Incorrect as it refers to fortune, not a desire or intention.
Option C:
To need - Incorrect as it implies necessity, not a wish or intention.
Option D:
Want to - Correct as it directly expresses the speaker's desire or intention.
2.
It's usually safe to invest in a ..... chip company.
A) Golden.
B) Blue.
C) White.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiomatic expression "blue chip" refers to high-quality, well-established companies that are considered safe investments due to their strong financial performance and stable history. Therefore, it is usually safe to invest in a blue chip company.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Golden chips do not have an established meaning related to investment safety.
Option B:
Correct. Blue chip companies are known for their stability and reliability, making them safe investments.
Option C:
White chips typically refer to a type of semiconductor in technology contexts but not in the context of investment safety.
Option D:
Not applicable as "blue" is the correct term.
3.
Are type of informal language that have meaning different from the meaning of the words in the expression
A) Idiom.
B) Idioms.
C) Idiomatic expression.
D) Idiomatic expressions.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Idiomatic expressions are a type of informal language where the meaning is not predictable from the literal meanings of the individual words. For example, in "it's raining cats and dogs," neither "cats" nor "dogs" refers to actual animals falling from the sky; instead, it means it is raining very heavily.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Idiom - This term can be singular or plural but not as precise as "idiomatic expressions."
Option B:
Idioms - While this option uses the correct plural form, it is less specific than "idiomatic expressions."
Option C:
Idiomatic expression - This term correctly refers to a single instance of an idiomatic phrase. However, the question asks for a type of informal language that can be more broadly applied.
Option D:
Idiomatic expressions - This is the most accurate and comprehensive answer as it denotes multiple instances of informal language with meanings not derived from individual word meanings.
4.
Which expression matches with the following definition:'unpleasant facts or opinions about you that someone tells you'
A) To be home and dry.
B) Take home.
C) Home truths.
D) Home from home.
E) Be at home with.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The expression "Home truths" (Option C) accurately matches the definition provided, which refers to unpleasant facts or opinions about oneself that someone tells you. This idiom is commonly used in English to describe such candid but potentially uncomfortable revelations.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
To be home and dry - means a plan has been successfully completed.
Option B:
Take home - refers to bringing something from work or school to one's residence, often used in the context of wages or assignments.
Option C:
Home truths - correctly describes unpleasant facts or opinions about oneself that someone tells you.
Option D:
Home from home - means a place is so familiar and comfortable it feels like home.
Option E:
Be at home with - indicates being comfortable in a situation, especially when dealing with unfamiliar people or things.
5.
Ben's grandmother gave him two hundred dollars as a gift. However, he promptly lost the money by betting on a sports game.
A) A penny saved is a penny earned.
B) Go Dutch.
C) A fool and his money are soon parted.
D) Nest egg.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiom "A fool and his money are soon parted" suggests that someone who is not careful with their finances will quickly lose them. In the given scenario, Ben lost his grandmother's gift money by betting on a sports game, which aligns well with this saying.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
This phrase means saving money wisely and thus does not fit the context of losing money quickly.
Option B:
"Go Dutch" is about sharing costs equally, which is unrelated to the scenario.
Option C:
This idiom fits perfectly as Ben lost his money due to a lack of financial prudence.
Option D:
A nest egg refers to savings set aside for future use and does not describe losing money quickly.
6.
Find the meaning of the expression"as soon as possible" .
A) As fast as possible.
B) As soon as possible.
C) As soon as possible.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The expression "as soon as possible" (ASAP) means to do something without delay, emphasizing the need for immediate action. It is commonly used in requests and instructions where quickness is essential.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Incorrect. This option repeats the phrase "As fast as possible," which conveys a similar meaning but is not the exact expression being asked about.
Option B:
Correct. This is the exact expression "as soon as possible" that means to act without delay.
Option C:
Correct, same as Option B.
Option D:
Incorrect. There is a correct answer among the options provided.
7.
What's the meaning of "fall behind" ?
A) Not move as quickly as; lag behind.
B) In no way; not at all.
C) Cause to happen.
D) Visit.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Fall behind" means to not move as quickly as someone else; lag behind. This expression is commonly used when discussing progress, achievements, or situations where one person or thing is slower than another in terms of development, performance, or advancement.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. "Fall behind" means to not move as quickly as someone else; lag behind.
Option B:
Incorrect. This option suggests a meaning that is unrelated to the expression's usage.
Option C:
Incorrect. This option does not match the meaning of "fall behind." It implies causing something to happen, which is different from lagging or being slower in progress.
Option D:
Incorrect. Visiting has no relation to the expression's meaning.
8.
Cream of the top
A) A very intelligent person.
B) The best.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiom "cream of the top" means the best among a group, emphasizing excellence and superiority. Therefore, option B) The best is correct as it accurately reflects the meaning of this expression.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
This option refers to an intelligent person but does not capture the full meaning of "cream of the top," which implies being among the very best.
Option B:
This is correct as it denotes the highest quality or excellence, aligning with the idiom's meaning.
9.
Ewan Gregory does not mind how much resistance he causes; he like "sailing against the wind" .
A) Opposing the popular view.
B) Being popular.
C) Interfering.
D) Overcoming the opposition.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "sailing against the wind" is an idiomatic expression that means to do something contrary to popular opinion, custom, or common practice. Ewan Gregory's statement indicates he enjoys going against the prevailing views or opinions, which aligns with this meaning.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. "Sailing against the wind" directly implies opposing the popular view.
Option B:
Incorrect. Being popular is not related to going against the prevailing opinion.
Option C:
Incorrect. Interfering does not capture the essence of going against the popular view.
Option D:
Incorrect. Overcoming opposition, while similar in some ways, does not fully encompass the idea of opposing the popular view.
10.
To those students whose scores are not so good, please consider hitting the books so hard next time.
A) The students need to fix the books on the shelf next time.
B) The students need to study more.
C) The students need to ask their classmates to help them.
D) The students need to take another test.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "hitting the books" is an idiomatic expression meaning to study hard. Therefore, option B) The students need to study more is correct as it accurately interprets the idiom used in the sentence.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Fixing books on a shelf has no relation to studying harder.
Option B:
Studying more directly aligns with the meaning of "hitting the books."
Option C:
Asking classmates for help is not implied by the idiom and may not be necessary if the student studies harder on their own.
Option D:
Taking another test does not address the advice given about studying more effectively.
11.
"Hang in there" is .....
A) To continue doing something in a determined way, despite difficulties.
B) To stop doing something in a determined way, because of difficulties.
C) To continue doing something in a determined way.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Hang in there" is an idiomatic expression that means to continue doing something in a determined way, despite difficulties. This phrase encourages perseverance and resilience when facing challenges.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. It aligns with the meaning of continuing to do something with determination despite difficulties.
Option B:
Incorrect. The expression does not imply stopping; rather, it suggests persistence.
Option C:
Partially correct but incomplete as it omits the aspect of facing difficulties.
Option D:
Incorrect. Option A is valid and complete.
12.
I got the ..... from Anna at the party. I guess she's still annoyed with me.
A) . blessing in disguise.
B) Cold shoulder.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "I got the cold shoulder from Anna at the party" is correct because it means that Anna deliberately avoided interacting with you, showing a lack of interest or friendliness. This idiom directly relates to the context where Anna might still be annoyed and hence avoids engaging with you.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
. blessing in disguise - This phrase indicates something that initially seems negative but turns out to have a positive outcome, which does not fit the context of being avoided or ignored.
Option B:
Cold shoulder - Correct. It means deliberately giving someone the cold treatment, often as a form of punishment or disapproval.
13.
Bobby would have been playing ball until the cows came home if it hadn't been for Suzie dragging him home for dinner.
A) Bobby was just about to stop playing ball.
B) Bobby didn't even want to play ball to begin with.
C) Bobby would have continued playing ball for a long time.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiom "playing ball until the cows come home" means to do something for a very long time, often implying that one would continue indefinitely if not interrupted. Thus, option C is correct because it accurately reflects Bobby's intention to play for an extended period.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Incorrect. The phrase suggests Bobby planned to play for a long duration, not just about to stop.
Option B:
Incorrect. There is no information suggesting Bobby did not want to play initially.
Option C:
Correct. It aligns with the idiom's meaning of prolonged activity.
Option D:
Incorrect. Option C is valid.
14.
John was on edge because of the upcoming job interview. How does John feel?
A) Excited.
B) Frightened.
C) Nervous.
D) Disappointed.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "on edge" is an idiomatic expression that means feeling nervous, anxious, or tense. Therefore, the correct answer is C) Nervous.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Excited - This does not fit with being on edge.
Option B:
Frightened - While frightened can be related to nervousness, "on edge" specifically implies a state of heightened tension or anxiety rather than fear.
Option C:
Nervous - This accurately describes the feeling implied by being on edge.
Option D:
Disappointed - This does not match the context of an upcoming job interview.
15.
That sound is driving me up the wall!
A) Making me relaxed.
B) Making me scared.
C) Making me nauseous.
D) Making me annoyed.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiom "driving me up the wall" means that something is extremely annoying or irritating, causing great frustration. Therefore, option D) Making me annoyed is correct as it accurately reflects the meaning of the given expression.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Relaxation is not associated with this idiom; thus, it is incorrect.
Option B:
Fear is unrelated to the context of being irritated or frustrated; hence, it is incorrect.
Option C:
Nausea does not fit the meaning of the expression, making it incorrect.
Option D:
Annoyance directly corresponds to the idiom's meaning, confirming its correctness.
16.
The teacher asked us to talk about the ..... of industrial development.
A) Brainstorm.
B) Cold.
C) Pros and cons.
D) Piece of cake.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "talk about the pros and cons" is an idiomatic expression that means to discuss both positive (advantages) and negative (disadvantages) aspects of a topic. In this context, discussing industrial development would involve examining its benefits and drawbacks.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Brainstorm - This refers to generating ideas without immediate criticism; not related to discussing advantages and disadvantages.
Option B:
Cold - This means lacking warmth or enthusiasm, which is unrelated to the context of discussion on industrial development.
Option C:
Pros and cons - Correct. It directly relates to discussing both positive and negative aspects of industrial development.
Option D:
Piece of cake - This means something that is very easy; not relevant here as it does not pertain to a discussion on the benefits and drawbacks of industrial development.
17.
The Lions are not as good as the Red Wings.
A) The Lions aren't as good as the Red Wings.
B) The Lions are not as good as the Red Wings.
C) The Lions are not as good as the Red Wings.
D) The Lions are not as good as the Red Wings.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The correct answer is Option B: "The Lions are not as good as the Red Wings." This option uses a grammatically correct and idiomatic expression to compare the two teams, maintaining proper subject-verb agreement and using the comparative form "not as...as" correctly.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Grammatically correct but redundant with Option B.
Option B:
Correctly uses idiomatic expression for comparison.
Option C:
Redundant with Option B, same as A and B.
Option D:
Redundant with Option B, same as A and C.
18.
Io go downtown by bicycle
A) I go downtown by bicycle.
B) I go downtown by bicycle.
C) I go to the center by bicycle.
D) I go to the center by bicycle.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The correct answer is A) "I go downtown by bicycle." This option uses the idiomatic expression "downtown" which refers to the central business district of a city, commonly used in American English. The phrase "by bicycle" correctly indicates the mode of transportation.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct usage of an idiomatic expression and proper grammar.
Option B:
Repetitive of Option A, correct but redundant.
Option C:
Uses "center" instead of the more specific "downtown," which is less common in this context.
Option D:
Same issue as Option C, uses "center" instead of "downtown."
19.
His kids probably don't know that ..... seeing how much he pampers them with expensive toys and gifts.
A) Money doesn't grow on trees.
B) Nest egg.
C) Go Dutch.
D) Live from hand to mouth.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiom "Money doesn't grow on trees" means that money is not easy to obtain and should be used wisely. The sentence suggests that the father's children might not understand this lesson, given his tendency to lavish them with expensive gifts and toys.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. It fits the context of the sentence.
Option B:
Incorrect. "Nest egg" refers to savings or money set aside for future use, not related to the context.
Option C:
Incorrect. "Go Dutch" means to share costs equally, unrelated to the context.
Option D:
Incorrect. "Live from hand to mouth" describes a state of poverty or barely managing, which does not fit the context.
20.
We are about to have lunch
A) I'll have lunch.
B) We do the lunch.
C) We're going for lunch.
D) We are about to have lunch.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option D, "We are about to have lunch," is the correct answer because it directly matches the given sentence "We are about to have lunch." This phrase indicates an imminent action that is about to take place, which aligns perfectly with the original statement.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
This option uses a simple present tense and does not convey immediacy or imminence. It states a general fact rather than an upcoming event.
Option B:
This option is grammatically incorrect as "do" should be followed by the base form of the verb, which in this case would be "lunch." Additionally, it does not convey the sense of imminence present in the original sentence.
Option C:
While this option uses a phrase that indicates an upcoming event ("going for lunch"), it is less direct and slightly more formal than Option D. It also implies a slight difference in timing or planning compared to "are about to have," which suggests immediate action.
Option D:
This option correctly uses the present continuous tense with "are about to" to indicate an imminent action, making it the most appropriate choice.
21.
Reveal a secret.
A) Choose the correct sentence:.
B) The Merlion has a fish' head and a lion's body.
C) Fish and The Merlion has body a lions head a.
D) Body head a a fish and The has Merlion lions.
E) The body a and Merlion a head fish lions has.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The correct answer is B) The Merlion has a fish' head and a lion's body. This sentence follows the proper English syntax for describing parts of an object, where the subject (Merlion) is followed by the verb (has), then the first part (a fish' head), and finally the second part (and a lion's body). It adheres to the standard structure used in English when providing detailed descriptions.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Not applicable as it does not provide an explanation.
Option B:
Correct, follows proper syntax.
Option C:
Incorrect, lacks proper spacing and apostrophe usage.
Option D:
Incorrect, word order is wrong.
Option E:
Incorrect, structure isๆททไนฑไธไธๆญฃ็กฎใ
22.
We'll graduate next month. I need to get in shape for the pictorial. I want to look good in there because it will be hanged on our wall.
A) Someone needs to study and graduate on time.
B) Someone needs to choose the correct frame for the picture.
C) Someone needs to be physically fit.
D) Someone needs to wait for a month.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option C is correct because the statement emphasizes the need to get in shape for a pictorial, which directly relates to physical fitness. The phrase "I want to look good" indicates an intention to improve one's appearance through exercise or other means of becoming physically fit.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Irrelevant as the statement does not mention studying or graduation timing.
Option B:
Unrelated to the context of physical appearance for a pictorial.
Option C:
Correct, aligns with the goal of looking good in the pictorial.
Option D:
Waiting a month is not relevant to the immediate need expressed in the statement.
23.
Our neighbor's singing too loud in the Karaoke is driving us up to the wall.
A) Very annoyed.
B) Singing sweetly.
C) Crazy.
D) Emotional.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiom "driving us up the wall" means that something is extremely annoying or frustrating, causing great irritation. Therefore, the correct answer is A) Very annoyed.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. The phrase indicates extreme annoyance.
Option B:
Incorrect. "Singing sweetly" does not match the context of being driven to frustration.
Option C:
Incorrect. "Crazy" is not a fitting interpretation for the given idiom.
Option D:
Incorrect. The phrase does not indicate an emotional state but rather extreme irritation.
24.
Face the fact that you hold a big responsibility being the eldest in the family.
A) Died.
B) Take it or leave it.
C) Accept reality.
D) Lives; works harmoniously.
E) Distributed.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option C, "Accept reality," is correct because it directly addresses the situation described in the question. The phrase "Face the fact" suggests acknowledging a given circumstance, which aligns with accepting reality as an appropriate response to holding significant responsibility within the family.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Died - Irrelevant and not related to addressing the situation.
Option B:
Take it or leave it - Implies a choice, which is not applicable here as accepting reality does not involve making such a choice.
Option C:
Accept reality - Directly addresses the need to acknowledge and accept the responsibility.
Option D:
Lives; works harmoniously - Not directly related to the concept of responsibility or acceptance.
Option E:
Distributed - Does not make sense in this context as it does not address the situation appropriately.
25.
Which expression can be used for the sentence below: "What you said just made her feel worse than before."
A) Go back to the salt mines.
B) Have something hung up and salted.
C) Salt of the earth.
D) Rub salt in a wound.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The correct answer is
D) Rub salt in a wound.
This expression means to do something that will make an unpleasant situation worse for someone, which accurately describes the sentence "What you said just made her feel worse than before."
Option Analysis:
Option A:
This phrase is not related and does not fit the context of making a bad situation worse.
Option B:
Also unrelated to the given sentence, as it refers to a metaphorical punishment rather than worsening an emotional state.
Option C:
This idiom means someone is valuable or excellent, which does not match the context of making someone feel worse.
Option D:
Correctly captures the idea of exacerbating an already negative situation.
26.
Juan Carlo decide "to keep his peace" until he finished examining the situation.
A) Not to talk.
B) To be reserved.
C) To be forthright.
D) To be relaxed.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Keep one's peace" is an idiomatic expression meaning to remain calm and not show anger or upset. This directly aligns with "not to talk," as remaining silent can be a way of keeping one's peace in certain situations.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. "Not to talk" accurately reflects the meaning of "keep his peace."
Option B:
Incorrect. Being reserved does not necessarily mean remaining calm or silent.
Option C:
Incorrect. Being forthright means being open and honest, which contradicts keeping one's peace.
Option D:
Incorrect. Being relaxed is a state of mind but does not directly relate to the idiom "keep his peace."
27.
Have a heart-to-heart talk
A) To discuss something openly and honestly.
B) To hurt or make someone feel very sad.
Show Answer
Explanations:
To discuss something openly and honestly is the correct interpretation of "have a heart-to-heart talk." This expression refers to an earnest, sincere conversation where individuals share their thoughts and feelings candidly with each other.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. It describes discussing matters in an open and honest manner.
Option B:
Incorrect. This option suggests causing emotional distress, which is not the meaning of "have a heart-to-heart talk."
28.
What a disgrace!
A) How delightful!.
B) How shocking!.
C) How unfortunate!.
D) How awful!.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "What a disgrace!" expresses strong disapproval or disappointment, indicating something is extremely bad or shameful. Option C) How unfortunate! aligns well with this sentiment as it conveys a sense of regret or misfortune, making it the most appropriate choice among the given options.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
How delightful! - This option is inappropriate because "delightful" means pleasing or enjoyable, which contradicts the negative tone of "disgrace."
Option B:
How shocking! - While this could be used in some contexts, it does not capture the same level of disappointment as "disgrace," making C a better fit.
Option C:
How unfortunate! - This option accurately reflects the negative sentiment expressed by "What a disgrace!" and conveys a sense of regret or misfortune.
Option D:
How awful! - Although this could work, it is more intense than necessary for expressing disappointment or regret, making C a slightly better choice in terms of nuance.
29.
My parents will foot the bill for my birthday party.What is the meaning of the bold phrase?
A) Pay for.
B) Lost an opportunity.
C) Made a thoughtless remark.
D) Refusal to see or listen.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "foot the bill" is an idiomatic expression meaning to pay for something, typically a meal or other expenses. In this context, it means that your parents will cover all the costs of your birthday party.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. To foot the bill means to pay for.
Option B:
Incorrect. This phrase does not relate to losing an opportunity.
Option C:
Incorrect. This is unrelated to making a thoughtless remark.
Option D:
Incorrect. This phrase has no connection to refusal or listening.
30.
She paid US$ 10 for that ..... pair of "Mike" sneakers.
A) Cheesy.
B) Mushy.
C) Corny.
D) Awkward.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "cheesy" is often used to describe something that is overly sentimental, corny, or lacking in quality or taste. In this context, it suggests the sneakers are of poor quality for their price, making the statement feel like an over-the-top claim.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. "Cheesy" fits well here as it implies the sneakers are not worth US$10.
Option B:
Incorrect. "Mushy" does not fit the context of describing a pair of sneakers.
Option C:
Incorrect. "Corny" could be similar but is less commonly used for this type of expression than "cheesy."
Option D:
Incorrect. "Awkward" does not capture the sense of something being overpriced or of poor quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are idiomatic expressions?
Idiomatic expressions in English are phrases or sentences that have a figurative meaning different from the literal definition of their individual words. They often reflect cultural norms and can be challenging for non-native speakers to understand.
How do idiomatic expressions differ from regular phrases?
Unlike literal language, idiomatic expressions in English often convey a specific meaning that is not directly related to the individual words. They are more about cultural understanding and context than straightforward syntax.
Why are heart-to-heart conversations important?
Heart-to-heart conversations can foster deeper emotional connections by allowing individuals to share their feelings openly and honestly. This type of communication is crucial for building trust and understanding in personal relationships.
How do idiomatic expressions impact learning English?
Mastering idiomatic expressions can significantly enhance fluency and naturalness in speaking and writing. However, they require exposure to real-world usage and context to be effectively learned.
What is the best way to learn idiomatic expressions?
The best approach involves immersing oneself in English through reading, listening, and engaging in conversations. Practicing with native speakers or using authentic materials can help learners grasp these expressions more naturally.