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Idiomatic Phrases – Quiz 1
Idiomatic Phrases Quiz 1 (30 MCQs)
This multiple-choice question set evaluates the ability to identify and interpret idiomatic phrases correctly, focusing on understanding context-specific expressions in English. It covers various skills such as recognizing equivalent idioms, interpreting idiomatic expressions in real-life scenarios, and applying common idioms appropriately.
Quiz Instructions
Select an option to see the correct answer instantly.
1.
What did Ana have for breakfast?
A) Fruit salad.
B) Cereal with almond milk.
C) Eggs.
D) Bread with coffee.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option B) Cereal with almond milk is correct because it is a common breakfast choice that fits naturally into the context of the question without forcing an interpretation or assumption about Ana's preferences.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Fruit salad, while healthy, is less typical for a quick morning meal compared to cereal.
Option B:
Cereal with almond milk, a popular and common breakfast option, aligns well with the context of the question.
Option C:
Eggs are also a common breakfast item but might be considered more substantial than what is implied by "Ana had for breakfast."
Option D:
Bread with coffee could be part of a breakfast, but it's less specific and common compared to cereal with almond milk.
2.
A) Have you lost something?B) I can't find my glasses, I've looked all over the place.
A) Everywhere in this room.
B) In every room.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option A) "Everywhere in this room" is correct because it directly addresses the context of the conversation, which is about searching for glasses within a specific location (the current room). This phrase indicates that the speaker has checked all areas within the room where the glasses might be.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. It specifies the immediate environment and aligns with the context of the conversation.
Option B:
Incorrect. This phrase is too broad, as it suggests searching in every room, which doesn't fit the specific scenario described by the speaker.
3.
What does the phrase 'Aprovecha el dia' mean?
A) Take your time.
B) Wake up late.
C) Go to bed early.
D) Seize the day.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase 'Aprovecha el día' translates to English as "Seize the day." This means you should make the most of the present moment and take action now, rather than postponing tasks or opportunities.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Take your time. Incorrect. This implies delaying actions.
Option B:
Wake up late. Incorrect. This refers to sleeping in, not making the most of the day.
Option C:
Go to bed early. Incorrect. This suggests an action related to sleep timing, not utilizing the current time effectively.
Option D:
Seize the day. Correct. This aligns with the meaning of 'Aprovecha el día,' encouraging immediate action and making the most of the present moment.
4.
On the seventh sky
A) Walk on air.
B) Go wih the flow.
C) In hot water.
D) Up in the air.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiom "on the seventh sky" is a metaphorical expression indicating extreme happiness, joy, or elation. It suggests that one's mood has reached an exceptionally high level, akin to being in the highest of skies. Therefore, the correct answer is A) Walk on air.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. "Walk on air" means to feel extremely happy or elated.
Option B:
Incorrect. This phrase means to follow a natural course of events without resistance, which does not fit the context of extreme joy.
Option C:
Incorrect. This idiom means to be in trouble or under suspicion, which is unrelated to feelings of happiness.
Option D:
Incorrect. This phrase suggests being very excited or enthusiastic, but "on the seventh sky" conveys a more intense level of joy than just being up in the air.
5.
It takes two to tango
A) Snowed under.
B) It takes two to tango.
C) Run like the wind.
D) Cut to the chase.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "It takes two to tango" is an idiomatic expression that means it requires cooperation from both parties for a situation, interaction, or conflict to occur. This aligns with the correct answer B, as it accurately reflects the meaning of the given idiom.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Snowed under refers to being overwhelmed by work or responsibilities; unrelated.
Option B:
Correct. It takes two to tango means cooperation is needed for a situation, interaction, or conflict to occur.
Option C:
Run like the wind describes speed; unrelated.
Option D:
Cut to the chase refers to getting straight to the point; unrelated.
6.
It is ..... the law to park here overnight.
A) Over.
B) Against.
C) Illegal.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Against the law" is a common idiomatic phrase that means it is illegal to do something. Therefore, option B) Against is correct because it accurately conveys that parking here overnight is not allowed by legal standards.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
"Over" does not fit the context of legality or prohibition.
Option B:
"Against" correctly expresses that parking here overnight is illegal.
Option C:
"Illegal" directly states the same meaning but is less formal than "against the law." Both are correct, but "against the law" is more commonly used in this context.
Option D:
"None of above" is incorrect since option B is valid.
7.
In doubt, in limbo
A) Go with the flow.
B) To be loaded.
C) On the ball.
D) Up in the air.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "in doubt, in limbo" means that a situation is uncertain and unresolved. The correct answer,
D) Up in the air
, conveys this same sense of uncertainty and lack of definite outcome or decision.
- Option A: Go with the flow suggests following whatever happens naturally without much thought.
- Option B: To be loaded implies being prepared or ready for something.
- Option C: On the ball means to be alert, active, or efficient in handling a situation.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Incorrect. It does not reflect uncertainty.
Option B:
Incorrect. It suggests preparation rather than uncertainty.
Option C:
Incorrect. It means being alert and active, not uncertain.
Option D:
Correct. It accurately reflects the state of being in doubt or unresolved.
8.
What did Ana plan to do with Estela after school?
A) Go to the park.
B) Go shopping at the mall.
C) Have a study session.
D) Go to a basketball practice.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option B is correct because "go shopping at the mall" directly matches a common idiom used to describe an activity that Ana and Estela might plan together after school, implying they intend to spend time in a shared social setting for leisure or errands.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Going to the park is a plausible post-school activity but less commonly associated with idiomatically described plans between friends.
Option B:
Go shopping at the mall fits well as an idiomatic phrase for planned social activities after school.
Option C:
Having a study session is more academic and less likely to be framed in an idiomatically described plan between friends.
Option D:
Going to a basketball practice suggests a specific activity rather than a general social plan, which is less idiomatic for this context.
9.
Kill two birds with one stone
A) Once in a blu moon.
B) The best of two worlds.
C) By the skin of your teeth.
D) Lets the cat out of the bag.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiom "kill two birds with one stone" means to achieve two goals with a single action, which aligns perfectly with the phrase "The best of two worlds," as both imply obtaining multiple benefits from a single effort. However, "The best of two worlds" suggests an ideal situation where all desired outcomes are achieved simultaneously without specifying that it's done through one action.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Once in a blu moon - This phrase means something happens very rarely or infrequently. It does not relate to achieving multiple goals with a single effort.
Option B:
The best of two worlds - Correct, as it implies obtaining the most desirable aspects from both options without specifying that it's done through one action.
Option C:
By the skin of your teeth - This idiom means to succeed by a very narrow margin. It does not relate to achieving multiple goals with a single effort.
Option D:
Lets the cat out of the bag - This phrase means to reveal a secret unintentionally. It does not relate to achieving multiple goals with a single action.
10.
A) How's the new job? Do you feel at home yet?B) I'm starting to. But I'm not used to working nine to five!
A) A feel healthy.
B) B We've used it all.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option B is correct because it uses the idiomatic phrase "We've used it all," which means that a person has exhausted all their resources, energy, or options. In this context, it humorously suggests that the speaker feels they have adapted to the new job enough but still struggle with the nine-to-five work schedule.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
This option is incorrect as it does not relate to the idiomatic phrase used in the conversation. It instead provides a statement about feeling healthy, which is unrelated.
Option B:
This option correctly uses an idiomatic expression that fits the context of the conversation, indicating adaptation and some resistance to change.
11.
Rush like the wind
A) Snowed under.
B) Run like the wind.
C) Cold turkey.
D) Cut to the chase.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "Rush like the wind" is an idiomatic expression that means to move very quickly, often with great speed and energy. The correct answer,
B) Run like the wind
, captures this meaning accurately by using a similar idiom.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Snowed under refers to being overwhelmed or buried in work.
Option B:
Correct, as it conveys the idea of moving swiftly like the wind.
Option C:
Cold turkey means suddenly and completely stopping a habit or activity, unrelated to speed.
Option D:
Cut to the chase means getting straight to the point without unnecessary delay, not related to speed.
12.
Feel at home = feel .....
A) Happy.
B) Comfortble.
C) In house.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Feel at home" is an idiomatic phrase that means to feel comfortable and relaxed in a new environment, as if one were in their own home. Therefore, the correct answer is
B) Comfortable.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Happy - While feeling happy can be part of feeling at home, it does not fully capture the essence of the phrase which includes a sense of ease and familiarity.
Option B:
Comfortable - This is correct as it accurately reflects the meaning of "feel at home."
Option C:
In house - This option does not make sense in the context of feeling at home, which refers to a state of mind rather than physical location.
Option D:
None of above - Incorrect as Option B is correct.
13.
Janet felt relieved to confess having taken the money. It felt good to .....
A) Keep her head.
B) Get it off her chest.
C) Lose her head.
D) Pull her leg.
E) Break her heart .
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Get it off her chest" is the correct answer because when someone confesses to a wrongdoing, they are relieved of their burden and guilt, as if the heavy load (the secret) has been lifted from them. This phrase directly relates to Janet's feeling of relief after confessing.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Keep her head - This means maintaining composure or staying calm, which is not related to confessing and feeling relieved.
Option B:
Get it off her chest - Correct. Confessing feels like a burden has been lifted.
Option C:
Lose her head - This means becoming angry or losing control, which does not fit the context of relief from confessing.
Option D:
Pull her leg - This means joking or teasing someone, which is unrelated to Janet's situation.
Option E:
Break her heart - This means causing emotional pain, which also does not match the feeling of relief after confessing.
14.
What was the reason for Estela taking too long to get ready?
A) She was doing her homework.
B) She was not feeling well.
C) She was choosing her outfit.
D) She was distracted by her phone.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option D is correct because "distracted by her phone" directly explains why Estela took too long to get ready, indicating she was not fully focused on getting dressed and prepared in a timely manner.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Doing homework would likely be done earlier and wouldn't explain the delay.
Option B:
Not feeling well might cause delays but isn’t as specific to the context of getting ready.
Option C:
Choosing an outfit could take time, but it doesn’t necessarily imply a distraction or delay.
Option D:
This option directly explains Estela’s distraction and resulting delay.
15.
What does the phrase 'Ponte las pilas' mean?
A) Take your time.
B) Get ready quickly.
C) Go to bed early.
D) Wake up late.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase 'Ponte las pilas' is an idiomatic expression in Spanish that means to get ready quickly. It literally translates to 'put the batteries,' which is a metaphor for boosting energy or motivation, similar to how one would replace dead batteries in a device.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Take your time - Incorrect. This phrase suggests slowing down rather than getting ready quickly.
Option B:
Get ready quickly - Correct. This is the literal and figurative meaning of 'Ponte las pilas.'
Option C:
Go to bed early - Incorrect. This phrase relates to sleeping habits, not readiness or energy levels.
Option D:
Wake up late - Incorrect. Waking up late does not relate to the concept of getting ready quickly or boosting energy.
16.
Have a lot of money
A) To be loaded.
B) Go with the flow.
C) Rule of thumb.
D) In hot water.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiomatic phrase "to be loaded" is the correct answer because it directly relates to having a lot of money, where "loaded" in this context means wealthy or financially well-off.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
To be loaded. This phrase accurately describes having a large amount of money.
Option B:
Go with the flow. This phrase means to follow what is happening naturally without resistance, not related to wealth.
Option C:
Rule of thumb. This phrase refers to a general guideline or principle, not specifically about having money.
Option D:
In hot water. This phrase means to be in trouble or in a difficult situation, unrelated to financial status.
17.
What did their mother compare Ana to?
A) A vampire.
B) A morning star.
C) A rooster.
D) A nightingale.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Their mother compared Ana to a rooster because, like a rooster that crows loudly and wakes up early in the morning, Ana was known for her early rising and loud voice.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Vampires are not typically associated with morning behavior or characteristics.
Option B:
Morning stars refer to Venus as a morning star but do not relate to Ana's early rising habit.
Option C:
Correct. Roosters are known for their loud crowing and waking up early, making this the most fitting comparison.
Option D:
Nightingales are associated with singing at night, not morning behavior or characteristics.
18.
The show's direct approach will ..... to children.
A) Lurk.
B) Irk.
C) Appeal.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "The show's direct approach will appeal to children" uses the idiomatic expression "appeal to," which means to attract or interest someone. This is why option C is correct.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Lurk does not mean to attract or interest, so it is incorrect.
Option B:
Irk means to annoy or irritate, which is the opposite of what "direct approach" would do in this context, making it incorrect.
Option C:
Appeal correctly uses the idiomatic phrase meaning to attract or interest children, thus correct.
Option D:
None of above is not applicable since option C is correct.
19.
What did their mother compare Carlos to?
A) A rooster.
B) A nightingale.
C) A vampire.
D) A morning star.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "compare Carlos to a nightingale" is an idiomatic expression that means to praise someone for their beautiful voice, similar to how a nightingale's song is admired. This comparison highlights Carlos’s exceptional vocal abilities.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Incorrect; comparing someone to a rooster would imply they are loud or noisy, not necessarily praising their voice.
Option B:
Correct; this is the idiomatic phrase used to praise Carlos for his beautiful singing voice.
Option C:
Incorrect; comparing someone to a vampire has no positive connotation and does not relate to vocal abilities.
Option D:
Incorrect; comparing someone to a morning star would imply they are bright or early, but not specifically about their voice.
20.
Everyone in the office knew about her illness; bad news ..... fast.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "bad news travels fast" is an idiomatic expression meaning that negative information spreads quickly among people. Therefore, the correct answer is
B) Travels.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Spreads - This verb does not capture the speed or efficiency of how bad news is communicated in this idiom.
Option B:
Travels - This accurately conveys that bad news moves rapidly among people, fitting the meaning of the idiom.
21.
A) Have you heard? Carlo's buying a house.B) Yes, he told me a while ago that he and Liza were thinking of settling down.
A) Buying a bigger house.
B) Choosing a permanent home.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option B) Choosing a permanent home is correct because the phrase "settling down" in English idiomatic language refers to establishing a stable domestic life, often involving buying a house and starting a family. This aligns with Carlo and Liza's intention as described.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Buying a bigger house does not capture the full meaning of "settling down," which implies more than just the size of the home.
Option B:
Choosing a permanent home accurately reflects the idiomatic expression used, indicating a decision to establish a stable living situation.
22.
Why did Ana think they would be late again?
A) Their parents were not ready.
B) Ana was not feeling well.
C) Estela was taking too long to get ready.
D) They had to finish their homework.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Estela taking too long to get ready (Option C) directly explains why Ana thought they would be late again. This scenario highlights the impact of others' actions on group punctuality, a common real-life situation.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Parents not being ready does not specifically address Ana's concern about their own tardiness.
Option B:
Ana feeling unwell would affect only Ana and not necessarily the group’s punctuality.
Option C:
This is correct as it directly impacts the group's ability to leave on time.
Option D:
Finishing homework does not relate to getting ready for an event or appointment, thus irrelevant to being late.
23.
Everything became clear
A) Once in a blue moon.
B) Let the cat out of the bag.
C) The elephant in the room.
D) Take a rain check.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiom "Everything became clear" is best matched with
Option B: Let the cat out of the bag.
This phrase means revealing a secret or truth that was previously unknown, making everything understandable or obvious. In this context, it implies that something hidden or unclear has been disclosed, leading to clarity.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
"Once in a blue moon" refers to an event that happens very rarely.
Option B:
"Let the cat out of the bag" means revealing a secret or truth, fitting well with the given sentence.
Option C:
"The elephant in the room" describes an obvious problem or fact that everyone is ignoring.
Option D:
"Take a rain check" means to postpone plans due to unforeseen circumstances or to get a replacement invitation for another time.
24.
Once every hundred years
A) Once in a blue moon.
B) Take a rain check.
C) An elephant in the room.
D) A snowball effect.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "once every hundred years" is an idiomatic expression that means something happens very rarely, almost as infrequently as a blue moon, which historically refers to the rare occurrence of two full moons in one month or a lunar eclipse during a full moon. Therefore, Option A) Once in a blue moon is correct.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. "Once every hundred years" and "once in a blue moon" both indicate something that happens very rarely.
Option B:
Incorrect. This phrase means to postpone an activity until a more convenient time, not related to rarity.
Option C:
Incorrect. This idiom refers to an obvious truth or fact that is being ignored, not related to rarity.
Option D:
Incorrect. This describes how small changes can lead to large effects over time, unrelated to rarity.
25.
Find the synonym of the italic words:Learning how to play a guitar was very easy to do, I think I can master it in a short time.
A) Child's play.
B) To run in the family.
C) To follow in someone's footsteps.
D) Like a kid in a candy store.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Child's play" means that something is very easy to do, which aligns with the original sentence stating that learning how to play guitar was easy and could be mastered quickly.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. Indicates ease of task.
Option B:
Incorrect. Suggests a trait or ability passed down genetically, not related to ease.
Option C:
Incorrect. Refers to following someone else's path, unrelated to ease.
Option D:
Incorrect. Describes excitement over many choices, not ease of task.
26.
I'm sorry, she's ..... at the moment. Please, call her later.
A) Tied up with.
B) Tied down.
C) Tied up.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "Tied up" is the correct answer because it is an idiomatic expression meaning someone is busy with something and cannot be disturbed at that moment. For example, one might say they are tied up with a meeting or tied up with paperwork.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
"Tied up with" - Correct. This phrase means occupied or busy.
Option B:
"Tied down" - Incorrect. This phrase typically refers to something physically restraining an object or person, not being busy.
Option C:
"Tied up" - Correct but less precise than "Tied up with," as it can imply a physical restraint rather than just being occupied.
Option D:
"None of above" - Incorrect. One of the options is correct.
27.
To go with the flow
A) Go cold turkey.
B) Snowed under.
C) Cut to the chase.
D) Go with the flow.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "to go with the flow" means to accept and adapt to a situation as it naturally unfolds, rather than trying to resist or change it forcefully. This idiom is correct because it accurately conveys the idea of going along with prevailing circumstances.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
"Go cold turkey" means to stop doing something abruptly without any preparation or gradual reduction, which does not match the meaning of adapting to a situation.
Option B:
"Snowed under" means overwhelmed by work or problems, which describes being burdened rather than going along with circumstances.
Option C:
"Cut to the chase" means to get straight to the point without any unnecessary delay or explanation, which is unrelated to adapting to a situation.
Option D:
"Go with the flow" correctly describes accepting and adapting to prevailing circumstances, making it the correct answer.
28.
Straight to the point
A) Cold turkey.
B) Cut to the chase.
C) Up in the air.
D) On the ball.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Cut to the chase" is an idiomatic phrase that means to get straight to the point, especially in a story or explanation. It implies skipping unnecessary details and focusing on the main issue or most important part of something.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Cold turkey refers to abruptly stopping a habit or behavior without any preparation or gradual reduction.
Option B:
Correct. It means to get straight to the point, especially in a story or explanation.
Option C:
Up in the air means that something is uncertain or undecided.
Option D:
On the ball means being alert and ready for action; it can also mean performing well or having a good grasp of a situation.
29.
A) I think we need to move to a bigger office.B) I agree. We've run out of space here!
A) We don't need more.
B) We've used it all.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option B) "We've used it all" is correct because the idiomatic phrase "run out of space" implies that there is no more available area to use, which aligns with the meaning conveyed by "used it all." This phrase indicates complete utilization or exhaustion of a resource.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Incorrect. The phrase "We don't need more" does not match the context of running out of space and implies no additional resources are required, which contradicts the situation described.
Option B:
Correct. "We've used it all" accurately reflects the idea that there is no remaining space to accommodate any further needs or items.
30.
A:How far do you live? B:I live .....
A) To run out of space.
B) Miles from anywhere.
C) Like the back of my hand.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "Miles from anywhere" is an idiomatic expression that means living in a remote location, far away from civilization or urban areas. This fits the context of B's response to A's question about how far they live.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Irrelevant; it does not explain distance or location.
Option B:
Correct; indicates a remote, distant place.
Option C:
Idiomatic for knowing something well, not related to physical distance.
Option D:
Incorrect; "Miles from anywhere" is the correct answer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are idiomatic phrases?
Idiomatic phrases are expressions in a language that have meanings which cannot be understood from the literal meaning of their individual words. They often convey cultural or social nuances and are commonly used in everyday speech.
Why are idiomatic phrases important to learn?
Learning idiomatic phrases is crucial because they significantly enhance communication skills, making it easier to understand and use natural language. They also provide insight into the culture and context of a language.
How do idiomatic phrases differ from literal expressions?
Idiomatic phrases have meanings that are not directly derived from their individual words, unlike literal expressions which mean exactly what they say. For example, saying "it's raining cats and dogs" to describe heavy rain is an idiomatic phrase.
Can idiomatic phrases be found in other languages besides English?
Yes, idiomatic phrases exist in many languages, including Spanish. For example, "dar el bastón al zorro" (literally: to give the stick to the fox) is a Spanish idiom meaning to hand over responsibility or power to someone who might misuse it.
How can I improve my use of idiomatic phrases?
Improving your use of idiomatic phrases involves reading and listening widely in the target language, practicing with native speakers, and using resources like books or online materials that focus on idioms. Regular exposure and practice will help you become more comfortable and proficient.