This quiz works best with JavaScript enabled.
Home
>
English Grammar
>
Vocabulary
>
Idioms And Phrases – Quiz 1
Idioms And Phrases Quiz 1 (30 MCQs)
This multiple-choice question set evaluates the ability to identify and interpret idiomatic expressions in context, particularly focusing on understanding common English idioms related to past events and their correct usage. It also assesses knowledge of grammatical agreement and plural nouns within idiomatic expressions.
Quiz Instructions
Select an option to see the correct answer instantly.
1.
In a nutshell means .....
A) Very small.
B) Ready to go.
C) Acorns.
D) In a few words.
Show Answer
Explanations:
In a nutshell means to provide information in a concise and simple way, often summarizing the main points of a topic.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Very small - Incorrect. "In a nutshell" refers to brevity rather than physical size.
Option B:
Ready to go - Incorrect. This phrase does not relate to the meaning of summarizing information.
Option C:
Acorns - Incorrect. This is unrelated to the idiom's meaning.
Option D:
In a few words - Correct. This accurately describes the essence of "in a nutshell," which means to convey something briefly and concisely.
2.
I can't find my keys, where ..... did I put them?
A) God's green Earth.
B) God's green gardens.
C) God's green pastures.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiom "God's green Earth" is a colloquial expression used to emphasize the entire world, but it does not fit naturally in the context of the question about misplaced keys. The phrase "where did I put them?" suggests looking for a specific location where the keys might be found.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. It emphasizes the whole earth as a place to look, though not literally.
Option B:
Incorrect. "God's green gardens" is not an idiomatic expression related to misplaced items.
Option C:
Incorrect. "God's green pastures" is also not an idiomatic expression in this context.
Option D:
Incorrect. At least one option (A) is correct, so this cannot be the answer.
3.
Feeling slightly ill.
A) Feel a bit under the weather.
B) Feel a bit under the mood.
C) Feel a bit under the cloud.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiom "Feel a bit under the weather" is commonly used to express that one feels slightly ill or unwell, making Option A correct. This phrase is widely understood and accepted in English-speaking cultures as a polite way to describe mild illness.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. "Feel a bit under the weather" means feeling slightly ill.
Option B:
Incorrect. "Feel a bit under the mood" is not an idiomatic expression in English and does not convey any meaning related to illness or well-being.
Option C:
Incorrect. "Feel a bit under the cloud" is also not an idiomatic phrase used to describe feeling unwell; it might be interpreted as metaphorical but not commonly understood in this context.
Option D:
Incorrect. There is a correct answer among the options provided.
4.
For sale means .....
A) Unavailable to borrow.
B) Unavailable tu buy.
C) Available to borrow.
D) Available to buy.
Show Answer
Explanations:
For sale means that something is available to buy. When an item is for sale, it indicates that the seller is willing to sell it and buyers can purchase it.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Unavailable to borrow - Incorrect. For sale does not relate to borrowing.
Option B:
Unavailable to buy - Incorrect. For sale means the item is available for purchase, not unavailable.
Option C:
Available to borrow - Incorrect. For sale pertains to buying, not borrowing.
Option D:
Available to buy - Correct. This accurately describes what "for sale" means.
5.
About the person who is very calm and untroubled by stress
A) As cool as ice.
B) As cool as a cucumber.
C) As cool as a hangman.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"As cool as a cucumber" is the correct idiom to describe someone who remains calm and untroubled by stress. This phrase originates from the idea that cucumbers are naturally cold, symbolizing a person's ability to stay composed in any situation.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
"As cool as ice" is also a common idiom for calmness but "cucumber" has a more vivid and relatable image.
Option B:
Correct, it accurately describes someone who stays calm under pressure.
Option C:
"As cool as a hangman" is not an existing idiom in English. Hangmen were known for their composed demeanor when executing people, but this specific phrase does not exist.
Option D:
Incorrect, "as cool as a cucumber" is the correct expression.
6.
What does "a staking horse" mean:
A) A sick human.
B) Pretence or being who you are not.
C) A tired person.
D) Just be a part of a bigger race.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiom "a staking horse" refers to someone who pretends to be interested in an event, such as a race, but whose real intention is not to participate actively. This term often describes a situation where a person or entity feigns interest only for the sake of appearing involved.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Incorrect. "A staking horse" does not refer to a sick human.
Option B:
Correct. This option accurately describes the meaning of "a staking horse." It refers to pretence or being who you are not, specifically in the context of feigning interest for ulterior motives.
Option C:
Incorrect. "A staking horse" is unrelated to a tired person.
Option D:
Incorrect. This option does not capture the essence of the idiom, which involves pretense rather than just being part of a race.
7.
She was so desperate for the slot that she was willing to give her right arm for it. The underlined means .....
A) Do something dangerous.
B) Do nothing.
C) Help.
D) Do everything.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiom "give her right arm for it" means to be willing to do anything, even something as significant as giving up a limb, to obtain or achieve something highly desired. Therefore, the correct answer is
D) Do everything.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Do something dangerous - Incorrect; the idiom does not imply danger but willingness to do anything for a goal.
Option B:
Do nothing - Incorrect; the idiom implies taking action, even extreme action.
Option C:
Help - Incorrect; the idiom means going beyond just helping to achieve something desired.
Option D:
Do everything - Correct; aligns with the meaning of giving up a limb for a goal.
8.
The kids screaming in the next room really set my teeth on edge.
A) Glad something is over or gone.
B) In a difficult situation.
C) Irritate or bother me.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "set my teeth on edge" is an idiom that means to irritate or bother someone intensely. Therefore, option C) Irritate or bother me is the correct answer.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Glad something is over or gone - This does not match the meaning of the idiom.
Option B:
In a difficult situation - While this might be related to feeling bothered, it doesn't capture the specific intensity implied by the idiom.
Option C:
Irritate or bother me - This accurately reflects the meaning of "set my teeth on edge."
Option D:
None of above - Not applicable since option C is correct.
9.
The thought of jumping out of a plane makes my hair stand on end.
A) Is frightening.
B) Is funny.
C) Messes up my hair.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiom "makes my hair stand on end" means something is extremely frightening or shocking. Therefore, the correct answer is that it is frightening (Option A).
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. The phrase indicates fear or shock.
Option B:
Incorrect. It does not mean funny at all.
Option C:
Incorrect. It is about the feeling of fear, not physical hair messiness.
Option D:
Incorrect. Option A is correct.
10.
I don't know how he can ..... a new car with his low salary.
A) Abhor.
B) Adore.
C) Afford.
D) Apply.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "can afford a new car" means having enough money to buy the car, which directly relates to his low salary mentioned in the context. Therefore, option C) Afford is correct.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Abhor means to dislike intensely; does not fit the context.
Option B:
Adore means to love or admire greatly; does not fit the context.
Option C:
Afford means to have enough money for something, fitting perfectly in this context.
Option D:
Apply means to use or employ (a method, procedure); does not fit the context.
11.
They sell leather ..... such as wallets, purses, and briefcases.
A) Goods.
B) Good.
C) Clothing.
D) Clothings.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "They sell leather goods such as wallets, purses, and briefcases" is correct because "goods" is the plural form of "good," which refers to items for sale. This usage is appropriate in this context where multiple products are being mentioned.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. "Goods" is used correctly as a plural noun referring to various leather items.
Option B:
Incorrect. "Good" should be pluralized to match the context of multiple products.
Option C:
Incorrect. "Clothing" refers specifically to garments, not necessarily leather items like wallets and briefcases.
Option D:
Incorrect. "Clothings" is a misspelling; it should be singular or plural as in "clothing."
12.
Every weekend my wife ..... Her credit card bills are enormous!
A) Shops till she drops.
B) Shops till she falls.
C) Shops till she drop.
D) Shops till she fall.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The correct answer is
A) Shops till she drops.
This idiom means that someone shops excessively until they are completely exhausted, often used to describe impulsive spending habits. The phrase "shops till she drops" uses the verb "drop," which in this context means to become too tired or overwhelmed to continue.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. Uses the idiom "shops till she drops."
Option B:
Incorrect. "Falls" is not commonly used in this context.
Option C:
Incorrect. "Drop" should be singular to match the subject "she."
Option D:
Incorrect. "Fall" is not appropriate here.
13.
I'd lie low if I were you till the trouble passes.
A) Try to be noticed.
B) Try not to be noticed.
C) Start something.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiom "I'd lie low if I were you till the trouble passes" means to avoid drawing attention to yourself until a difficult situation has resolved itself. Therefore, the correct answer is
B) Try not to be noticed.
This aligns with the meaning of staying out of sight or avoiding conflict.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Incorrect as it suggests drawing attention, which contradicts the idiom's meaning.
Option B:
Correct as it matches the advice to avoid being noticed during a troublesome period.
Option C:
Incorrect as starting something would not align with avoiding trouble.
Option D:
Incorrect as there is a correct answer among the options provided.
14.
This coat was half-price-a real .....
A) Purchase.
B) Puchrase.
C) Bagrain.
D) Bargain.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "This coat was half-price-a real bargain" indicates a good deal or an advantageous purchase, which is best described by the word "bargain." A bargain means something bought for less than its usual price, often considered to be a good value.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Purchase - This term refers to buying something but does not convey the idea of getting it at a reduced cost.
Option B:
Puchrase - This is a misspelling and should be "Purchase," which again, does not fit the context.
Option C:
Bagrain - This term is not recognized in English language or idiomatic expressions.
Option D:
Bargain - Correctly describes getting something at a reduced price and considered good value.
15.
Say exactly the right thing
A) Hit the nail on the head.
B) Sitting on the fence.
C) Fixed in their ways.
D) Go the extra mile.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Hit the nail on the head" is an idiom that means to state or do exactly what was intended, especially in a precise and accurate manner. This phrase perfectly fits the context of "Say exactly the right thing," making it the correct answer.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. Indicates stating something precisely and accurately.
Option B:
Incorrect. Means to remain undecided or uncommitted, which does not fit the context.
Option C:
Incorrect. Refers to being stubborn or unwilling to change one's mind, unrelated to the context.
Option D:
Incorrect. Means going beyond what is necessary or required, not relevant here.
16.
To avoid acknowledging something when you know it is bad
A) Cut to the chase.
B) A blessing in disguise.
C) Back to the drawing board.
D) Turn a blind eye.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Turn a blind eye" means to deliberately ignore something, especially when it is obvious that you should acknowledge or address it. This idiom fits the scenario where someone knows something is bad but chooses not to recognize it.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Cut to the chase - means getting straight to the point without unnecessary details, unrelated.
Option B:
A blessing in disguise - means an unexpected benefit from a situation that seems bad at first, unrelated.
Option C:
Back to the drawing board - means starting over or redoing something because it was not successful, unrelated.
Option D:
Turn a blind eye - means deliberately ignoring something obvious, correct for the given scenario.
17.
"It costs a fortune" means .....
A) It is very cheap.
B) You cannot afford it.
C) It is free (costs nothing).
D) It is very expensive.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"It costs a fortune" means that something is very expensive. This idiom indicates that the cost of an item, service, or activity is extremely high.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
It is incorrect because "it costs a fortune" implies high cost, not low cost.
Option B:
This option is correct as it aligns with the meaning of the idiom indicating something cannot be afforded due to its high cost.
Option C:
It is incorrect because "it costs a fortune" suggests that the item or service does not come free but rather at a very high price.
Option D:
While this option is correct, it is less precise than Option B in explaining why the idiom means something cannot be afforded due to its high cost.
18.
To make money means
A) To create money.
B) To invent money.
C) To sell money.
D) To earn money.
Show Answer
Explanations:
To earn money means to gain or receive payment for one's work, services, or efforts. This is the correct interpretation of "to make money."
Option Analysis:
Option A:
To create money refers to producing currency, which is not what "make money" implies in common usage.
Option B:
To invent money suggests creating or fabricating money, which is illegal and not the meaning of "to make money."
Option C:
To sell money means to exchange currency for goods or services, but it does not capture the broader sense of earning payment.
Option D:
To earn money correctly describes gaining payment through work or effort, aligning with the common understanding of "to make money."
19.
Things from the past that are not important anymore
A) Until the cows come home.
B) Playing devil's advocate.
C) Tongue in cheek.
D) Water under the bridge.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiom "water under the bridge" is correct because it means something that happened in the past and cannot be changed, thus not important anymore. It fits perfectly with the context of things from the past that are no longer significant.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
This phrase does not relate to past events being unimportant; it means doing something for a very long time or indefinitely.
Option B:
This involves arguing against one's own position, which is unrelated to the context of past events.
Option C:
This phrase indicates speaking in a humorous or ironic way and does not address the concept of past events being unimportant.
Option D:
Correct. It signifies that past events are no longer relevant or important, fitting the context well.
20.
Pick your brain means .....
A) Find our all you know about something.
B) Listen.
C) Find the smartest person.
D) Read a lot.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Pick your brain" is an idiom that means to ask someone for their knowledge, ideas, or opinions on a particular subject. The correct answer is A) Find out all you know about something because this accurately describes the act of seeking comprehensive information from another person.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. It means to ask someone for their knowledge and ideas.
Option B:
Incorrect. Listening does not necessarily involve asking for knowledge or opinions.
Option C:
Incorrect. Finding the smartest person is not equivalent to seeking their knowledge or opinions on a topic.
Option D:
Incorrect. Reading a lot is unrelated to directly asking someone for their knowledge or ideas.
21.
You'd better leave now if you want to arrive early for the exam. Break a leg!
A) Good night.
B) Good job.
C) Good luck.
D) Good bye.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiom "Break a leg" is used to wish someone good luck, especially before they perform in front of an audience. It originates from the theater and is considered a superstition to avoid saying "good luck," which might jinx the performance.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Good night - This phrase is used to say goodbye at bedtime, not for wishing someone good luck before an exam or performance.
Option B:
Good job - This phrase is used to praise someone's effort or achievement, not a wish for future success.
Option C:
Good luck - This is the correct answer as it aligns with the meaning of "Break a leg," which is also a way to express good wishes before an important event like an exam.
Option D:
Good bye - This phrase is used to say farewell, not for wishing someone success or luck.
22.
If someone has a green thumb, this means:
A) They like eating healthy food.
B) They are good at gardening.
C) They are good at making money.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "having a green thumb" is an idiom that means someone has a natural talent for gardening and taking care of plants. Therefore, the correct answer is B) They are good at gardening.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
This option refers to liking healthy food, which is unrelated to having a green thumb.
Option B:
Correct. Having a green thumb means being skilled in gardening and plant care.
Option C:
This option suggests making money, which has no connection to the idiom "green thumb."
Option D:
Incorrect as there is a correct answer among the options provided.
23.
The teachers kept an eye on the new students in school as they are not familiar with them. The underlined means .....
A) Considered.
B) Checked at.
C) Closely observed.
D) Looked at.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "kept an eye on" means to closely monitor or observe someone, especially when they are new and unfamiliar in a situation. Therefore, the correct answer is C) Closely observed.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Considered - This implies thinking about something but does not involve active observation.
Option B:
Checked at - This suggests a brief or superficial examination, which doesn't fit the context of continuous monitoring.
Option C:
Closely observed - This accurately reflects the meaning of "kept an eye on."
Option D:
Looked at - While this involves visual attention, it does not imply the ongoing and attentive nature suggested by the original phrase.
24.
Principal that is strictly adhered / kept to
A) Take a rain check.
B) Let sleeping dogs lie.
C) Let the cat out of the bag.
D) Rule of thumb.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "rule of thumb" refers to a general principle that is strictly adhered to, often used in situations where precise measurements are not necessary but a basic guideline is needed. This aligns with the question asking for a principal that is strictly kept or followed.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
"Take a rain check" means to reschedule an invitation or commitment due to unforeseen circumstances, unrelated to strict adherence.
Option B:
"Let sleeping dogs lie" suggests avoiding stirring up trouble that is better left alone, not about following rules strictly.
Option C:
"Let the cat out of the bag" means accidentally revealing a secret, unrelated to strict adherence or following principles.
Option D:
"Rule of thumb" correctly represents a general principle that is strictly followed in various contexts where exactness is not required but a basic guideline is necessary.
25.
His name is mud means .....
A) He is in trouble.
B) His friends call him "Mud" .
C) He loves to play with mud.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiom "His name is mud" means that a person's reputation is so bad that it is as worthless as mud. This phrase indicates that the individual has a very poor reputation and is generally discredited or despised by others.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. It signifies a negative reputation.
Option B:
Incorrect. The name itself does not matter; it's the person's reputation that matters.
Option C:
Incorrect. There is no connection to playing with mud.
Option D:
Incorrect. Option A is correct.
26.
The new car of my neighbor was a white elephant for most of the family as they use it sparingly.
A) Cheap and useless.
B) Useful and cheap.
C) Expensive and useless.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "white elephant" refers to something that is a burden or an asset that is difficult to dispose of, often due to its high cost and impracticality. In this context, the car being used sparingly indicates it's not very useful for most of the family.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Cheap and useless - Incorrect; "white elephant" does not imply cheapness.
Option B:
Useful and cheap - Incorrect; the car is described as not being used much, so it's not useful for most of the family.
Option C:
Expensive and useless - Correct; a white elephant often implies something that is both expensive (hard to get rid of) and impractical (not very useful).
Option D:
None of above - Incorrect; Option C correctly identifies the meaning.
27.
From the old school means .....
A) Old fashioned.
B) A school that is more than 20 years old.
C) Graduated a long time ago.
D) Elementary students.
Show Answer
Explanations:
From the old school means adhering to traditional, time-honored methods or ways of doing things that may not necessarily be modern or current. This phrase emphasizes a preference for established practices over newer or more contemporary approaches.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. Old fashioned refers to maintaining traditional and possibly outdated customs, values, or behaviors.
Option B:
Incorrect. The age of the school is irrelevant; it focuses on the mindset or approach rather than the institution's longevity.
Option C:
Incorrect. While this might describe someone who graduated long ago, it does not capture the essence of "from the old school" which relates to a way of thinking or behaving.
Option D:
Incorrect. This option refers to students in elementary schools, which is unrelated to the idiom's meaning.
28.
He plays the part of a tough cop on TV who really has a heart of gold.
A) Is kind and generous.
B) Is timid or afraid.
C) Is in a difficult situation.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "has a heart of gold" is an idiom that means someone is kind, generous, and has a good nature. Therefore, the correct answer is A) Is kind and generous.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. The idiom "heart of gold" directly implies kindness and generosity.
Option B:
Incorrect. Timid or afraid does not align with the meaning of having a heart of gold.
Option C:
Incorrect. Being in a difficult situation is unrelated to the idiom "heart of gold."
Option D:
Incorrect. At least one option (A) is correct, so this cannot be the answer.
29.
"Open a can of worms" means .....
A) Openings up a can with stinky food.
B) Share information that complicates the situation.
C) Getting ready to go fishing.
D) Having a difficult time.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Open a can of worms" is an idiom that means to introduce a complicated or difficult situation, often with unforeseen consequences. This phrase suggests that by sharing certain information, one might unintentionally create more problems than initially anticipated.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Incorrect. The idiom does not refer to the smell of the food but rather to the complications it may cause.
Option B:
Correct. This accurately describes the meaning of the phrase, indicating that sharing information can lead to a complex or problematic situation.
Option C:
Incorrect. The idiom is unrelated to fishing activities.
Option D:
Incorrect. While this might describe part of the outcome, it does not fully capture the meaning of the phrase as an idiom.
30.
The long suspension of classes caused students to be bored to tears. The underlined means .....
A) Very active.
B) Very bored.
C) Bored to work.
D) Bored to cry.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "bored to tears" is an idiom that means extremely bored, so the correct answer is B) Very bored.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
This option suggests very active, which contradicts the meaning of being bored.
Option B:
Correct. "Bored to tears" means extremely bored.
Option C:
This option is not a common phrase and does not accurately describe the idiom's meaning.
Option D:
This suggests being so bored that one wants to cry, which is close but not exactly what "bored to tears" means. It implies crying due to boredom rather than just being extremely bored.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are idioms and phrases?
Idioms and phrases are expressions that have a figurative meaning different from the literal definition of their individual words. They are commonly used in everyday English to convey specific ideas or emotions.
How do idioms differ from other types of language?
Unlike literal expressions, idioms and phrases often require cultural understanding and context to be fully comprehended. They are a unique aspect of language that adds color and nuance but can also lead to misunderstandings if not familiar.
Are there different types of idioms?
Yes, idioms can be categorized in various ways. For example, some idioms relate to past events or experiences, while others might have a frightening connotation. Understanding these differences helps in using them appropriately.
Why are plural nouns important when learning idioms?
Plural nouns can significantly affect the meaning of certain idioms. For instance, "a white elephant" refers to something that is a burden or an unwanted possession, and its meaning changes with the number used.
How do I learn new idiomatic expressions?
Learning new idioms can be enhanced by reading widely in English, listening to native speakers, and using flashcards or language learning apps. Contextual understanding is key to mastering their usage.