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Idioms Phrases Proverbs – Quiz 1
Idioms Phrases Proverbs Quiz 1 (30 MCQs)
This multiple-choice question set evaluates the understanding and application of idiomatic expressions, proverbs, and figurative language in English. It covers concepts such as clarification and precision in communication, collaborative problem-solving, perseverance in competitive situations, and the interpretation and practical use of idioms and proverbs.
Quiz Instructions
Select an option to see the correct answer instantly.
1.
Complete the passage below with the correct idiom:Carla was very impressed by the firework show. It
A) Bit off more than it could chew.
B) Cut corners.
C) Blew her away.
D) Killed two birds with one stone.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiom "blew her away" is the correct choice because it means to impress someone greatly, which fits Carla's reaction to the firework show being very impressive.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
This phrase means to take on more than one can handle. It does not fit the context of Carla being impressed by the fireworks.
Option B:
This means to save time or money by omitting necessary steps, which is unrelated to Carla's experience with the fireworks show.
Option C:
This idiom perfectly describes Carla’s reaction as she was greatly impressed by the firework display.
Option D:
This means to achieve two goals with a single action, which is not relevant to Carla's experience of being impressed.
2.
Birds of a feather flock together
A) When you make money quickly, it's very easy to lose it quickly as well.
B) If you can do something today, do it. Don't wait until tomorrow; don't procrastinate.
C) Don't try to do too many things at the same time; focus on one thing at a time.
D) People who are similar spend time together.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiom "Birds of a feather flock together" means that people with similar characteristics, interests, or behaviors tend to associate with each other. This aligns perfectly with option D: People who are similar spend time together.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Discusses the volatility of financial gains and losses, unrelated to the idiom.
Option B:
Encourages immediate action but does not relate to the concept of similarity in association.
Option C:
Suggests focusing on one task at a time, which is about productivity rather than social behavior.
Option D:
Directly matches the meaning of "Birds of a feather flock together," making it the correct answer.
3.
You cannot leave the kitten because it was rude to you. Two wrongs don't make a right. What does this mean?
A) It's always good to take care of kittens.
B) Just because the kitten did something bad doesn't mean you should also.
C) If the kitten had been nicer then you could be nice to it.
D) It's okay to do something bad if it's done to you first.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "Two wrongs don't make a right" means that responding to an injustice with another injustice is not a proper way to resolve the situation. It emphasizes that just because someone has done something bad to you, it does not justify your doing something similar in return.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
This statement is unrelated and incorrect as it suggests taking care of kittens is always good, which is not the focus of the proverb.
Option B:
Correct. It directly aligns with the meaning that one should not respond to a bad action with another bad action.
Option C:
This option introduces an unnecessary condition and does not accurately reflect the core message of the phrase.
Option D:
Incorrect as it suggests doing something bad is acceptable, which contradicts the proverb's meaning.
4.
What is the meaning of fair and square
A) Get into trouble.
B) Once in a long time.
C) With justice and honesty.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "fair and square" means with justice and honesty, which directly corresponds to Option C. This idiom is often used to describe actions that are conducted in a fair manner without any cheating or unfair advantage.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Get into trouble - Incorrect; this phrase does not relate to fairness or honesty.
Option B:
Once in a long time - Incorrect; this phrase refers to infrequency, not fairness.
Option C:
With justice and honesty - Correct; this is the accurate meaning of "fair and square."
Option D:
None of above - Incorrect; Option C is correct.
5.
What is the figurative meaning of the phrase, "to knock someone's socks off? "
A) To impress someone.
B) To do laundry.
C) To hit someone hard in the legs.
D) To remove someone's footwear.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "to knock someone's socks off" is an idiom that means to impress someone greatly, often in a positive way. It suggests that something or someone has made such a strong and positive impression that it seems almost unbelievable or extraordinary.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. To impress someone.
Option B:
Incorrect. Doing laundry is unrelated to the idiom's meaning.
Option C:
Incorrect. Hitting someone in the legs does not align with the idiom’s figurative meaning.
Option D:
Incorrect. Removing footwear is not related to impressing someone.
6.
All of the following are idioms, adages, and proverbs except .....
A) Don't put all of your eggs in one basket.
B) Every cloud has a silver lining.
C) It's too late to learn now.
D) Money doesn't grow on trees.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Every cloud has a silver lining" is an idiom, "Don't put all of your eggs in one basket" and "Money doesn't grow on trees" are proverbs. "It's too late to learn now," although it conveys a general truth, does not fit the traditional structure or meaning of idioms, adages, or proverbs.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Proverb
Option B:
Idiom
Option C:
Not an idiom, adage, or proverb
Option D:
Proverb
7.
What is the meaning of the proverb, saved by the bell?
A) An interruption that stops you from doing something you didn't want to do.
B) That's the end of the matter:there's nothing more to be said.
C) An incredibly knowledgeable person.
D) Study with a concentrated effort.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The proverb "saved by the bell" refers to an interruption that stops you from doing something you didn't want to do, such as avoiding a punishment or an unpleasant situation. This idiom highlights how timely interruptions can prevent unfavorable outcomes.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. It accurately describes the meaning of "saved by the bell."
Option B:
Incorrect. This option suggests that an interruption ends a matter, which is not the same as being saved from something.
Option C:
Incorrect. This option refers to someone knowledgeable, which has no relation to interruptions or avoiding unfavorable situations.
Option D:
Incorrect. This option talks about studying with effort, which is unrelated to the concept of being saved by an interruption.
8.
What does the phrase, "beat around the bush" mean?
A) Beating a bush.
B) Walking around a bush.
C) Avoiding the main topic.
D) Wanting to talk to the main topic.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "beat around the bush" means avoiding the main topic by discussing irrelevant details, much like someone might avoid hitting a bush while walking past it and instead take a detour.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Incorrect. The idiom does not refer to physically beating a bush.
Option B:
Incorrect. Walking around a bush is just an example of avoiding the main topic, not the meaning itself.
Option C:
Correct. This accurately describes the idiom's meaning of evading the central issue with unnecessary details.
Option D:
Incorrect. The phrase does not mean wanting to talk about the main topic; rather, it means avoiding it.
9.
Complete the proverbs or idioms with the correct answer.Promises .....
A) Hear no good of themselves.
B) Without breaking eggs.
C) Out of mind.
D) Are made to be kept.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The correct answer is
D) Are made to be kept.
This proverb emphasizes the importance of keeping one's promises, suggesting that making a promise is a serious commitment that should not be broken lightly.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Hear no good of themselves - This phrase means someone who does not listen to or pay attention to negative information about themselves. It has nothing to do with promises.
Option B:
Without breaking eggs - This idiom refers to achieving a goal without causing unnecessary trouble or risk, often used in the context of finding a solution that avoids conflict. It is not related to promises.
Option C:
Out of mind - This phrase means something that has been forgotten or is no longer being considered. It does not relate to promises.
Option D:
Are made to be kept - This directly aligns with the meaning of the proverb, reinforcing the idea that promises should be honored and maintained.
10.
Slow and steady wins the .....
A) Taste.
B) Race.
C) Apple.
D) Ribbon.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiom "Slow and steady wins the race" is a well-known proverb that emphasizes perseverance and consistent effort over speed. It suggests that by maintaining a steady pace, one can ultimately achieve success, even if it takes longer than expected.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Taste - Incorrect. This option does not fit the context of the idiom.
Option B:
Race - Correct. The idiom directly refers to a race, emphasizing that slow but consistent effort can lead to victory in competitive situations.
Option C:
Apple - Incorrect. This option is unrelated to the idiom "Slow and steady wins the race." It might be associated with another famous saying or proverb.
Option D:
Ribbon - Incorrect. A ribbon is not relevant to this idiom, which focuses on a race and consistent effort.
11.
If someone helps you, you can use a metaphor and call him/her .....
A) A person.
B) A friend.
C) An angel.
D) A collegue.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Calling someone who helps you an "angel" is a metaphor that highlights the extraordinary and selfless nature of their assistance, suggesting they bring divine intervention in the form of aid.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
A person - too generic; doesn't convey special help.
Option B:
A friend - implies a relationship rather than extraordinary help.
Option C:
An angel - metaphor for extraordinary and selfless assistance.
Option D:
A colleague - professional context, not emphasizing the nature of the help.
12.
Choose the correct meaning of each underlined proverb or adage.Then I though, "If I want to be a good runner, I have to practive. I know that practice makes perfect!"
A) Practicing is the way to get good at something.
B) You must practive something every day.
C) You must practice perfectly.
D) Being perfect is important.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The proverb "practice makes perfect" emphasizes that through consistent and diligent practice, one can improve their skills to a high level of proficiency. This aligns with Option A: Practicing is the way to get good at something.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. It directly reflects the meaning of "practice makes perfect."
Option B:
Incorrect. The adage does not specify daily practice; it focuses on the importance of practice in general.
Option C:
Incorrect. The proverb suggests that perfection is a goal, but not necessarily achievable through perfect practice every time.
Option D:
Incorrect. While being perfect is implied as an outcome, it is the result of consistent practice rather than the primary focus.
13.
Choose the sentence which used the correct idiom.
A) "Yeah! We did it! Give me a ride!" said Aufa after they suceeded in the rocket experiment.
B) "Mom, can you give me a ride to the school please? ".
C) Hana thinks it's time to give me a ride and tell Qasih the truth.
D) My sister is going to give me a ride because she is sick.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The correct answer is B) "Mom, can you give me a ride to the school please?". This sentence uses the phrase "give me a ride" correctly in its literal sense of asking for transportation. The other options use this idiom incorrectly or out of context.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Incorrect; "give me a ride" is used metaphorically after a successful experiment, which is not the intended meaning.
Option B:
Correct; "give me a ride" means to transport someone in a vehicle.
Option C:
Incorrect; "give me a ride and tell Qasih the truth" mixes two phrases without clear context, making it confusing.
Option D:
Incorrect; "because she is sick" does not provide a logical reason for using "give me a ride" in this context.
14.
Why are idioms used in writing?
A) They're universal and easy to understand.
B) They make writing more streamlined.
C) They make writing more lively.
D) They make writing more grammatically correct.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Idioms are used in writing to make it more lively and engaging for the reader. They add color, creativity, and a touch of cultural flavor that can make the text more interesting and memorable. This is why option C is correct.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Idioms are not necessarily universal or easy to understand due to their context-specific nature.
Option B:
While idioms can add variety, they do not inherently make writing more streamlined. Streamlining usually refers to making the text concise and clear without unnecessary words.
Option C:
Correct. Idioms enhance the liveliness of a piece by introducing colorful expressions that reflect common language usage and cultural nuances.
Option D:
Grammatical correctness is unrelated to idioms, which are about vocabulary and expression rather than syntax or structure.
15.
What does "The ball is in your court." mean?
A) The things that you do show your feelings more than what you say.
B) It is your turn to make a decision.
C) Strong people can work through tough situations.
D) If someone wrongs you, don't do something wrong in return.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "The ball is in your court" means it is now your turn to make a decision or take action, similar to when playing tennis and the ball is served to you for you to return.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
This statement does not relate to the meaning of "The ball is in your court." It refers to showing feelings through actions rather than words.
Option B:
Correct. The phrase indicates that it's now your turn to decide or act, aligning with the tennis analogy where you are expected to return the serve.
Option C:
This statement is about handling tough situations and does not relate to making a decision or taking action when given an opportunity.
Option D:
This phrase pertains to responding to wrongs with righteousness, which is unrelated to the concept of making a decision or taking action in turn.
16.
Complete the passage below with the correct idiom:I spent an hour trying to teach my grandpa how to send text messages, but
A) You can't teach an old dog new tricks.
B) He was in the dog house.
C) I was the top dog.
D) He was all bark no bite.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiom "You can't teach an old dog new tricks" is the correct choice here because it means that older people are often resistant to learning new things, which fits the scenario of trying to teach a grandpa how to use modern technology.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. This idiom accurately reflects the challenge in teaching an elderly person something new.
Option B:
Incorrect. "He was in the dog house" means someone is in trouble or disfavor, which does not fit the context of learning a new skill.
Option C:
Incorrect. "I was the top dog" means being the leader or boss, unrelated to the scenario.
Option D:
Incorrect. "He was all bark no bite" suggests someone who is loud but not actually effective, which does not fit the context of learning a new skill.
17.
As free as .....
A) A bird.
B) A giant.
C) An ox.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiom "as free as a bird" is commonly used to describe someone who has a lot of freedom and can do what they want without restrictions. This phrase emphasizes the bird's ability to fly freely in the sky, symbolizing liberation and independence.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. The idiom "as free as a bird" directly compares someone or something to a bird, highlighting their freedom.
Option B:
Incorrect. A giant is not typically associated with the concept of freedom in this context.
Option C:
Incorrect. An ox does not symbolize freedom; it is more commonly associated with hard work and labor.
Option D:
Incorrect. The correct answer is provided by Option A.
18.
Slow on the .....
A) Money.
B) Uptake.
C) Workload.
D) Phone.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "Slow on the uptake" means someone is slow to understand something, which fits well with the incomplete sentence "Slow on the ....". This idiom directly relates to understanding and processing information quickly or slowly.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Money - Incorrect. This phrase does not relate to financial matters.
Option B:
Uptake - Correct. "Slow on the uptake" is a common idiom meaning slow to understand or learn something.
Option C:
Workload - Incorrect. This term refers to the amount of work assigned, not understanding speed.
Option D:
Phone - Incorrect. This option does not fit with the context of the idiom.
19.
What do these idioms, adages, and proverbs mean? Don't put all your eggs in one basket
A) When you go to the store use two baskets for your eggs.
B) Don't put all of your resources in the same place.
C) You are happier when you don't know something.
D) You need to go to the store to get some eggs.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiom "Don't put all your eggs in one basket" means that you should not invest all of your resources, time, or capital into a single venture or project without diversifying them. This advice is given to avoid the risk of losing everything if something goes wrong.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Incorrect. The idiom does not suggest using multiple baskets for eggs; it advises against concentrating resources in one place.
Option B:
Correct. This accurately reflects the meaning of the idiom, emphasizing the importance of diversification to avoid risks.
Option C:
Incorrect. The idiom does not relate to happiness or ignorance; it is about risk management and diversification.
Option D:
Incorrect. This option is unrelated to the meaning of the idiom, which focuses on resource distribution rather than shopping for eggs.
20.
Just for the record.
A) To make something clear.
B) To hesistate before answering.
C) To understand.
D) To keep track of something.
Show Answer
Explanations:
To make something clear is the correct interpretation of "Just for the record." This phrase is used to emphasize that what follows will be stated clearly and accurately, often to avoid misunderstandings or to provide additional clarification on a point.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. It indicates the intention to clarify information.
Option B:
Incorrect. Hesitation is not implied by this phrase.
Option C:
Incorrect. The phrase does not pertain to understanding but rather to clarification.
Option D:
Incorrect. Keeping track of something is unrelated to the meaning here.
21.
Choose the correct meaning of each underlined idiom.Mai continued, "Let's put our heads together and think of something to contribute to the auction."
A) Whisper quietly.
B) Sit next to one another.
C) Put our heads on the table.
D) Work together to make a plan.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiom "put our heads together" means to work collaboratively on a problem or plan, emphasizing teamwork and joint effort in brainstorming solutions.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
This refers to speaking softly, not working together.
Option B:
Sitting next to each other does not imply collaboration on a task or plan.
Option C:
Placing heads on the table is not an idiomatic expression related to teamwork.
Option D:
This correctly describes working together to make a plan, aligning with Mai's statement about contributing ideas for the auction.
22.
That math problem was as easy as A-B-C.
A) Metaphor.
B) Neither.
C) Simile.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
A simile is a figure of speech that directly compares two different things using the words "like" or "as." In the given sentence, "That math problem was as easy as A-B-C," the phrase "as easy as A-B-C" is used to compare the difficulty of the math problem to the simplicity of reciting the alphabet. This comparison uses "as... as," which is a form of simile.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Metaphor - Incorrect, because a metaphor would imply that the math problem IS the alphabet, not just easy like it.
Option B:
Neither - Incorrect, as the sentence does use a figure of speech (simile).
Option C:
Simile - Correct, as explained above.
Option D:
None of above - Incorrect, since Option C is correct.
23.
PUT ONE'S FACE ON
A) GETTING SOMEONE TO TROUBLE.
B) APPLY COSMETICS.
C) HIT SOMEONE.
D) EXATURATING.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiom "put one's face on" means to apply makeup, which directly corresponds to option B) APPLY COSMETICS. This phrase is commonly used in casual conversation when referring to the act of putting on makeup or cosmetics to enhance one’s appearance.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Getting someone into trouble does not relate to applying makeup.
Option B:
Correct. Applying cosmetics is the intended meaning.
Option C:
To hit someone involves physical violence, which is unrelated to makeup application.
Option D:
Exerting oneself does not pertain to applying makeup or cosmetics.
24.
Which of the following is not example of figurative language?
A) "I didn't know I was going to have to eat my words" .
B) "You should have made a tastier speech" .
C) "How many times must I tell you not to bite off more than you can chew? ".
D) ""In one ear and out the other, " scolded the duke" .
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option B, "You should have made a tastier speech," is not an example of figurative language. It uses the word "tastier" in a literal sense to suggest that the speech could have been more appealing or effective, rather than using a metaphorical meaning.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Figurative - "Eat my words" is an idiom meaning to admit you were wrong.
Option B:
Literal - Suggests the speech could have been more delicious, not a metaphorical expression.
Option C:
Figurative - "Bite off more than you can chew" is an idiom meaning to take on too much responsibility or work.
Option D:
Figurative - "In one ear and out the other" means information was not retained, often used metaphorically.
25.
You can find something good in every bad situation.
A) Every cloud has a silver lining.
B) Actions speak louder than words.
C) There's no such thing as a free lunch.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "Every cloud has a silver lining" is an idiom that means there is always something positive to be found in every difficult situation, aligning with the given statement "You can find something good in every bad situation."
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. This phrase directly reflects the idea presented.
Option B:
Incorrect. This is a proverb about actions being more important than words, unrelated to finding positives in negative situations.
Option C:
Incorrect. This means that there are no free benefits or services, which does not relate to the concept of finding good in bad situations.
Option D:
Incorrect. There is a correct answer among the options provided.
26.
You have butterflies in your stomach.
A) You feel very nervous.
B) To do something very well, you need to practice and practice.
C) A job is easier and goes more quickly if a lot of people help.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiom "you have butterflies in your stomach" is used to describe a feeling of nervousness, anxiety, or excitement, often before an important event or when facing a challenging situation.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. This option accurately interprets the given idiom.
Option B:
Incorrect. This describes practice and effort in achieving something well, not nervousness.
Option C:
Incorrect. This refers to teamwork and collaboration, not nervousness.
Option D:
Incorrect. At least one option is correct.
27.
Not have a .....
A) Leg to stand on.
B) Care in the world.
C) An option.
D) An answer.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiom "not have a leg to stand on" means that someone has no valid reason, argument, or support for their position or claim. Therefore, option A is correct as it aligns with the meaning of the given phrase.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. The idiom "not have a leg to stand on" means having no valid reason or argument.
Option B:
Incorrect. This option does not relate to the meaning of the given phrase.
Option C:
Incorrect. This option is unrelated to the idiom's meaning.
Option D:
Incorrect. This option also has no connection to the idiom's meaning.
28.
You're barking up the wrong tree
A) To tell your dog to stop barking.
B) You are asking the wrong person.
C) Accomplish two tasks with one action.
D) Trees have bark on them.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The idiom "You're barking up the wrong tree" means that someone is looking in the wrong place for something, or pursuing a mistaken idea or course of action. Therefore, option B) You are asking the wrong person is correct because it aligns with the meaning of the phrase.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Incorrect. This idiom does not relate to telling your dog to stop barking.
Option B:
Correct. It means you are pursuing a mistaken idea or course of action, similar to asking the wrong person for information.
Option C:
Incorrect. This option is unrelated to the idiom's meaning.
Option D:
Incorrect. While this statement is true, it does not capture the intended meaning of the idiom.
29.
The two of us had the same idea at the same time. Well, great minds think alike!
A) Two people have the same idea.
B) Two people have identical minds.
C) Two people are talking at the same time.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The phrase "great minds think alike" means that two people with similar intelligence or creativity can independently come up with the same idea. This directly supports Option A, which states that "Two people have the same idea."
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. The idiom indicates that independent thinking led to the same conclusion.
Option B:
Incorrect. The phrase does not imply identical minds, only similar ones in terms of thought process or creativity.
Option C:
Incorrect. The statement is about ideas coinciding, not about timing of speech.
Option D:
Incorrect. Option A is the correct interpretation.
30.
What is the correct meaning of the proverb in the following passage:Eve just insulted the girl who was teaching her how to ice-skate. That's biting the hand that feeds you.
A) Turn against someone who helps you.
B) Getting upset over something insignificant.
C) Eating food when you aren't supposed to.
D) Something good getting topped by something better.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The proverb "biting the hand that feeds you" means to turn against someone who has been helpful or supportive, which directly corresponds to Option A: Turn against someone who helps you.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. This aligns with the meaning of the proverb.
Option B:
Incorrect. The proverb does not relate to getting upset over insignificant matters.
Option C:
Incorrect. The phrase is about receiving help, not eating food improperly.
Option D:
Incorrect. This option describes a scenario where something better replaces something good, which is unrelated to the proverb's meaning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are idioms, phrases, and proverbs in English?
Idioms, phrases, and proverbs in English are expressions that have meanings beyond their literal words. Idioms often convey cultural or social nuances, while proverbs offer wisdom or advice through concise sayings.
How do idioms differ from metaphorical expressions?
Idioms are fixed phrases with figurative meanings, often used to express common experiences or emotions. Metaphorical expressions, on the other hand, compare two things using "like" or "as," creating a vivid image without being fixed.
Why are idioms important in writing?
Idioms can make writing more engaging and relatable by adding color and depth to language. They help convey complex ideas succinctly, making the text more impactful and easier to understand for readers.
How do I interpret idioms in context?
To interpret an idiom in context, consider the surrounding words and the overall meaning of the sentence or paragraph. Understanding the situation and the speaker's intent can help you grasp the true meaning behind the idiom.
What is an example of a proverb?
An example of a proverb is "Two wrongs don't make a right," which advises that retaliating with negative actions will not resolve conflicts or bring about justice.