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Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions

152 questions

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Question 1Question →

After months of disagreement, the two business partners decided to bury the hatchet and work together on the new project.

What does the expression 'bury the hatchet' mean in this context?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: To forget past conflicts and make peace

Answer

To forget past conflicts and make peace
The idiom 'bury the hatchet' means to settle grievances, cease hostilities, and make peace. The sentence context clearly supports this meaning as it explains that the partners agreed to collaborate despite earlier disagreements.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the sentence context for clue words
The phrase notes that despite prior disagreement, the partners decided to work together.
Context clues point to a transition from conflict to cooperation.
2
Identify the figurative meaning of the idiomatic expression
'Bury the hatchet' figuratively signifies ending hostilites and restoring peaceful relations.
Idioms convey non-literal meanings agreed upon through language use.

Key Concept

Interpretation of common English idioms in context
Question 2Question →

Complete the sentence below by providing the appropriate idiomatic expression in the blank.

Fill in the blanks below

By quietly securing the international patent rights before any competitor was aware of the breakthrough, the technology firm managed to the entire industry.
Show answer & explanation

Answer

The correct idiomatic expression to complete the sentence is 'steal a march on' (or 'steal a march upon').
The idiomatic expression 'steal a march on' means to gain an advantage over someone by acting secretly or earlier than anticipated. In the context of quietly securing patent rights before rivals are even aware, this phrase provides the exact figurative meaning required.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the contextual clues in the sentence
The sentence describes an entity acting secretly and ahead of time to gain an unfair or strategic advantage over rivals.
Contextual analysis requires identifying the precise figurative action being described.
2
Select the standard English idiomatic expression that denotes gaining a secret head start
The idiom 'steal a march on' specifically means to gain an advantage over a competitor, especially by acting secretly or earlier than expected.
The origin of the idiom stems from military tactics where one army marches quietly during the night to gain a positional advantage before the enemy realizes.

Key Concept

Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions
Estimated Time:1m 30s
Question 3Question →

After his release from the correctional facility, Timothy resolved to turn over a new leaf by enrolling in a vocational training center. What does the idiomatic expression 'turn over a new leaf' mean in this context?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: To change one's behavior and start living a better life

Answer

To change one's behavior and start living a better life
The expression 'turn over a new leaf' figuratively means to reform one's behavior and make a fresh, positive start, which fits Timothy's decision to gain vocational skills.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Examine the idiom within the sentence context
Timothy's enrollment in vocational training shows an effort to reform his life positively after release.
Contextual clues clarify the underlying figurative intent of the expression.
2
Determine the figurative meaning of 'turn over a new leaf'
The idiom means to change one's conduct for the better or make a fresh, positive start.
Idioms carry established non-literal meanings that must be interpreted as a whole.

Key Concept

Idiom Interpretation in Context
Question 4Question →

Complete the sentence below by filling in the blank with the appropriate idiomatic expression that correctly captures the intended meaning.

Fill in the blanks below

Despite facing severe financial headwinds and mounting opposition from stakeholders, the Chief Executive Officer refused to and insisted on carrying out the planned corporate restructuring.
Show answer & explanation

Answer

throw in the towel (or throw in the sponge)
The idiomatic expression 'throw in the towel' (or 'throw in the sponge') means to surrender, quit, or admit defeat. In this context, stating that the CEO 'refused to throw in the towel' correctly conveys that he refused to give up despite severe obstacles.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the sentence.
The subject (the CEO) faces heavy challenges but refuses to admit defeat or quit.
The phrase 'refused to... and insisted on carrying out' indicates perseverance against adversity.
2
Select the appropriate idiomatic phrase.
The idiom 'throw in the towel' (originating from boxing) means to admit defeat or surrender.
Inserting 'throw in the towel' fits both the grammatical structure and the figurative context of the sentence.

Key Concept

Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions
Question 5Question →

After years of intense rivalry over market share, the two tech executives decided to bury the hatchet and work together on a joint venture. What is the meaning of the underlined expression as used in the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: make peace and settle their differences

Answer

make peace and settle their differences
The idiomatic expression 'bury the hatchet' historically originates from a peace ceremony and figuratively means to end a quarrel, cease hostilities, and make peace.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the idiomatic expression in the sentence.
The target expression is 'bury the hatchet'.
Understanding the figurative nature of the idiom in context is essential for selecting the correct interpretation.
2
Analyze the contextual clue 'and work together on a joint venture'.
The sentence describes former rivals agreeing to collaborate harmoniously.
Contextual clues confirm that hostility has ended.
3
Match the idiom to its figurative definition.
'Bury the hatchet' means to forget past quarrels and make peace.
This directly aligns with ending their long-standing rivalry.

Key Concept

Interpretation of Idiomatic Expressions in Context
Question 6Question →

During the regulatory board review, the executive was warned that his aggressive tax avoidance strategies were sailing close to the wind. Which of the following options best conveys the meaning of the underlined idiomatic expression?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Taking risks that come dangerously close to breaking the law or acting immorally

Answer

Taking risks that come dangerously close to breaking the law or acting immorally
The idiomatic expression 'sailing close to the wind' means to act on the verge of what is allowed, legal, or safe. In the sentence context, aggressive tax avoidance strategies border on illegal practice, making this interpretation correct.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the sentence
The executive is being reviewed by a regulatory board regarding aggressive tax avoidance strategies.
Contextual clues indicate that the action involved is questionable and subject to scrutiny.
2
Determine the figurative meaning of the idiom 'sailing close to the wind'
The idiom originates from seamanship (sailing almost directly into the wind, which is difficult and risky) and figuratively means acting on the verge of illegal, improper, or dangerous behavior.
Idioms must be understood figuratively rather than literally.
3
Select the option that matches this figurative meaning
The option stating 'Taking risks that come dangerously close to breaking the law or acting immorally' correctly matches the idiom's meaning.
It accurately reflects the risk-taking and borderline illegality implied in the sentence.

Key Concept

Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions
Question 7Question →

Complete the sentence below by providing the exact word required to complete the idiomatic expression.

Fill in the blanks below

When the factory workers realized that management had repeatedly violated safety regulations, everyone agreed that action was necessary, but no one was courageous enough to bell the by directly confronting the aggressive managing director.
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Answer

The word required to complete the idiomatic expression is 'cat'.
The idiomatic expression 'to bell the cat' means to undertake a dangerous, risky, or impossible task for the benefit of a group. In the sentence, confronting the aggressive managing director represents this dangerous task that nobody wants to personally carry out.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the sentence
The context describes a dangerous or difficult task (confronting a powerful managing director) that everyone agrees needs to be done, but no individual is willing to risk doing.
Understanding the context helps identify the specific figurative meaning needed.
2
Identify the target idiom matching this context
The English idiom meaning to perform a risky or difficult task for the common good is 'to bell the cat'.
The idiom originates from Aesop's fable where mice suggest putting a bell on a cat, but none dare to perform the dangerous act.
3
Insert the required word into the blank
Completing the phrase yields 'to bell the cat'.
The word 'cat' correctly completes the fixed idiomatic structure.

Key Concept

Idiomatic Expressions: Fixed Phrase Completion
Estimated Time:1m 15s
Question 8Question →

During the parliamentary debate on the contentious environmental bill, the senator decided to take up the cudgels for the affected rural communities. Which of the following options best conveys the meaning of the underlined idiomatic expression?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Vigorously defend and champion the cause of the rural inhabitants

Answer

To vigorously defend, support, or champion a person, group, or cause.
The idiomatic expression 'to take up the cudgels for someone' means to strongly defend, support, or champion a person, group, or idea. In the sentence, the senator is actively standing up for the interests of the affected rural communities during the parliamentary debate.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the target idiomatic expression in the sentence stem.
The target phrase is 'take up the cudgels for'.
Recognizing the exact boundaries of the idiom prevents confusing it with surrounding context.
2
Determine the figurative meaning of the idiom in English usage.
Historically referring to picking up a weapon in defence of someone, 'taking up the cudgels for' figuratively means to strongly defend or champion someone's cause.
Idioms cannot be interpreted literally by combining individual word meanings.
3
Match the figurative definition with the provided choices.
The choice stating 'Vigorously defend and champion the cause of the rural inhabitants' directly matches the definition.
Selecting the option that reflects the figurative sense confirms the correct interpretation.

Key Concept

Idiomatic Interpretation in Context
Question 9Question →

Complete the sentence below by providing the word that correctly forms the appropriate idiomatic expression.

Fill in the blanks below

When the internal audit revealed massive financial discrepancies in the agency, the director general vowed to bring the fraudulent officers to .
Show answer & explanation

Answer

The word that completes the idiomatic expression is 'book', forming the standard phrase 'bring to book'.
The idiomatic expression 'bring to book' means to punish someone for their misconduct or force them to explain their actions. In the sentence, the director general intends to penalize the fraudulent officers, making 'book' the exact word needed to complete the idiom.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the contextual meaning of the sentence.
The sentence describes an authority figure declaring an intention to punish or hold accountable officers who committed financial fraud.
Determining the contextual goal helps identify the specific idiomatic expression required.
2
Identify the fixed idiomatic phrase that matches this meaning.
The established English idiom meaning to punish someone or officially call them to account for wrongdoing is 'bring to book'.
Idioms are fixed lexical items whose constituents cannot be substituted with literal synonyms.

Key Concept

Fixed idiomatic expressions and conventional word collocation
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 10Question →

After realizing that his poor attendance was affecting his academic performance, Chidi resolved to turn over a new leaf. What is the meaning of the underlined idiomatic expression?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Change his behavior and make a fresh, positive start

Answer

Change his behavior and make a fresh, positive start
The idiom 'turn over a new leaf' means to change one's conduct or attitude for the better and start afresh. In the context of Chidi improving his academic performance, it refers to reforming his habits.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the underlined idiom in the sentence context
The idiom is 'turn over a new leaf'.
Contextual usage indicates a deliberate shift in response to poor academic performance.
2
Determine the figurative meaning of the expression
'Turn over a new leaf' figuratively signifies making a fresh start by improving one's character or conduct.
Idioms cannot be interpreted word-for-word; their figurative meaning is established through common usage.
3
Match the figurative meaning to the correct option
The statement describing changing behavior and making a fresh, positive start correctly captures the definition.
It directly reflects positive self-improvement and behavioral reform.

Key Concept

Interpretation of Idiomatic Expressions
Estimated Time:45s
Question 11Question →

In the sentence, 'After decades of intense dispute, the two neighboring communities finally resolved to bury the hatchet during the peace summit,' what is the interpretation of the underlined idiomatic expression?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: make peace and end their ongoing conflict

Answer

make peace and end their ongoing conflict
The idiomatic expression 'bury the hatchet' means to end a quarrel and become friendly again. In the context of two conflicting communities attending a peace summit, resolving to bury the hatchet means agreeing to make peace and end their ongoing conflict.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the idiomatic expression in the stem.
The target expression is 'bury the hatchet'.
Recognizing the fixed phrase is required to determine its figurative sense.
2
Determine the figurative meaning of the idiom.
'Bury the hatchet' means to make peace, forgive past grievances, and end an argument or conflict.
Idioms convey non-literal meanings established through common usage.
3
Select the option matching this figurative meaning.
The option stating 'make peace and end their ongoing conflict' is the correct interpretation.
It accurately defines the phrase in the context of resolving a community dispute.

Key Concept

Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions
Question 12Question →

Which word correctly completes the idiomatic expression in the sentence below?

Fill in the blanks below

Faced with mounting financial losses and unanimous disapproval from the board of directors, the managing director was forced to throw in the .
Show answer & explanation

Answer

The word that completes the idiomatic expression is 'towel' (or 'sponge').
The idiomatic expression 'throw in the towel' (or 'throw in the sponge') means to quit, surrender, or admit defeat in the face of insurmountable difficulty.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the contextual meaning of the scenario described in the sentence.
The managing director is surrendering or admitting defeat due to overwhelming hardship and disapproval.
Contextual clues like 'mounting financial losses' and 'unanimous disapproval' indicate an inescapable failure.
2
Identify the standard English idiomatic phrase corresponding to admitting defeat.
The fixed idiomatic expression is 'to throw in the towel' (or historically, 'throw in the sponge').
This idiom originates from combat sports like boxing, where throwing a towel into the ring signifies submission.

Key Concept

Idiomatic Expressions and Fixed Metaphorical Phrasings
Question 13Question →

Which idiomatic expression correctly completes the context of the sentence below?

Fill in the blanks below

Following the catastrophic failure of the regional power grid during peak demand, the parliamentary committee resolved to the energy minister for gross negligence.
Show answer & explanation

Answer

haul over the coals
The expression 'haul over the coals' means to reprimand or censure someone severely for a mistake, which matches the context of a parliamentary body penalizing a minister for gross negligence.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the syntactic and semantic requirements of the context.
The sentence requires an idiomatic transitive verb phrase signifying severe reprimand, criticism, or censure from an authority figure.
A parliamentary committee addressing gross negligence after a catastrophic power grid failure would formally and harshly scold the official responsible.
2
Select the idiomatic expression that precisely denotes severe reprimand.
The idiom 'haul over the coals' (or 'call over the coals') means to scold or reprimand someone severely for a grave error or failure.
The phrase fits grammatically following 'resolved to' and accurately expresses severe official reprimand.

Key Concept

Idiomatic Expressions of Reprimand and Censure
Question 14Question →

Which word correctly completes the idiomatic expression in the sentence below?

Fill in the blanks below

Rather than confronting the systemic financial irregularities directly, the committee was accused of merely tilting at , wasting valuable resources on imaginary problems.
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Answer

The correct word to complete the blank is 'windmills', forming the idiomatic expression 'tilting at windmills'.
The word 'windmills' completes the idiom 'tilting at windmills', which means spending energy fighting imaginary, exaggerated, or futile enemies/problems.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the sentence to determine the intended figurative meaning.
The context describes a committee wasting effort and resources on imaginary or non-existent issues rather than real financial problems.
Identifying context clues helps determine the precise idiom that signifies confronting illusory opponents or futile tasks.
2
Identify the standard fixed idiomatic structure that fits the prepositional frame 'tilting at ...'.
The fixed idiomatic expression is 'tilting at windmills', derived from Cervantes' novel Don Quixote.
Idioms are conventionalized fixed expressions where words cannot be arbitrarily substituted with literal synonyms.

Key Concept

Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions
Question 15Question →

Which idiomatic expression correctly completes the sentence below to indicate a total and comprehensive acquisition?

Fill in the blanks below

Rather than acquiring only the firm's manufacturing division, the conglomerate bought the entire enterprise , taking over all its assets, liabilities, and patents.
Show answer & explanation

Answer

The correct idiomatic expression is 'lock, stock, and barrel'.
The idiomatic expression 'lock, stock, and barrel' means completely and entirely, leaving nothing out. In the sentence provided, it accurately describes the total purchase of the enterprise along with all its associated components.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the sentence.
The sentence describes buying an entire business enterprise comprehensively, including all of its physical assets, debts, and patents.
Contextual clues point to an idiom that signifies complete, all-inclusive ownership or takeover.
2
Identify the precise English idiomatic expression that expresses total inclusion.
The expression 'lock, stock, and barrel' means entirely or including every single part.
Historically referring to the three essential parts of a firearm, the phrase has evolved into a standard idiom representing total completeness.

Key Concept

Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions
Question 16Question →

To prepare thoroughly for her upcoming examination, Amina decided to burn the midnight oil every night. What is the meaning of the expression *burn the midnight oil* in this context?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: To study or work late into the night

Answer

To study or work late into the night
The idiomatic expression 'burn the midnight oil' means to stay up late reading, studying, or working. In the context of exam preparation, it highlights extra effort spent studying late into the night.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the sentence
Amina is preparing for an upcoming examination and needs extra preparation time.
Contextual clues indicate an effort to achieve academic success through dedicated study.
2
Identify the figurative meaning of the idiom
The phrase 'burn the midnight oil' historically refers to using oil lamps to read or work past bedtime, which figuratively means studying or working late into the night.
Idioms cannot be understood by taking their individual words literally; their established figurative meaning must be applied.

Key Concept

Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions
Estimated Time:45s
Question 17Question →

During the parliamentary debate on fiscal policy, the finance minister and the opposition leader continued to lock horns over the proposed tax reforms. Which of the following best expresses the meaning of the underlined idiomatic expression?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: engage in a prolonged dispute or conflict

Answer

The idiomatic expression 'lock horns' means to engage in a disagreement, dispute, or conflict.
The idiomatic phrase 'lock horns' derives from the imagery of animals with horns locking them together in combat. Figuratively, it means to enter into a heated argument, debate, or conflict with someone.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the underlined idiomatic expression in the sentence
The expression is 'lock horns'.
Contextual analysis requires focusing on the figurative meaning of the specific idiom.
2
Analyze the context of a parliamentary debate between political opponents
The context implies conflict or argumentation over policy.
Debates between political rivals typically involve opposing viewpoints.
3
Select the option that reflects the figurative meaning of conflict
The option stating 'engage in a prolonged dispute or conflict' correctly defines 'lock horns'.
The phrase originates from animals clashing their horns together during a fight, symbolizing conflict.

Key Concept

Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions
Question 18Question →

Complete the sentence below by supplying the correct word that completes the idiomatic expression.

Fill in the blanks below

After several weeks of tense negotiations over the strategic merger, the executive board and the founding shareholders remain at with each other regarding valuation.
Show answer & explanation

Answer

loggerheads
The idiomatic expression 'at loggerheads' means to be in strong or stubborn disagreement with someone. Supplying 'loggerheads' into the blank correctly completes the fixed phrase in line with the context of deadlock during corporate negotiations.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the sentence to determine the required idiomatic meaning.
The context describes ongoing conflict and persistent disagreement between two key decision-making groups during merger negotiations.
Understanding the context helps identify the specific fixed phrase expressing strong, persistent disagreement.
2
Identify the fixed idiomatic phrase that fits the structure 'at _____ with'.
The correct idiomatic expression is 'at loggerheads with'.
'At loggerheads' is a fixed English idiom that means engaged in a stubborn dispute or quarrel.

Key Concept

Completing fixed idiomatic expressions in corporate contexts
Estimated Time:1m 30s
Question 19Question →

Complete the sentence below by supplying the correct word that completes the idiomatic expression.

Fill in the blanks below

When the independent audit exposed systemic procurement irregularities within the ministry, the director-general was left with no choice but to fall on his and tender his immediate resignation.
Show answer & explanation

Answer

The word 'sword' completes the idiomatic expression 'fall on one's sword'.
The idiomatic expression 'to fall on one's sword' means to accept full responsibility or blame for a wrongdoing or failure, typically by resigning from a position. The context of an executive resigning following an audit cleanly dictates the use of the word 'sword'.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the sentence
The context describes a high-ranking official taking ultimate responsibility for systemic errors and resigning.
Understanding the situational context helps identify the specific figurative phrase being used.
2
Identify the standard English idiomatic phrase
The expression 'fall on one's sword' originates from ancient Roman military tradition and figuratively means accepting full responsibility or blame for a defeat or failure, often leading to resignation.
The noun required following 'fall on his...' in this fixed expression is 'sword'.

Key Concept

Meaning and completion of fixed idiomatic expressions in formal English context
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 20Question →

Complete the sentence below by supplying the appropriate idiomatic expression that correctly fits the context.

Fill in the blanks below

After weeks of openly defying the cabinet's official policy on trade tariffs, the dissenting minister was finally compelled to during the parliamentary vote.
Show answer & explanation

Answer

The correct idiomatic expression to complete the sentence is 'toe the line' (or 'toe the party line').
The idiomatic expression 'toe the line' (or 'toe the party line') accurately completes the sentence because it means to conform strictly to rules, authority, or standard policy—especially after a period of disagreement or opposition.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the sentence context to determine the expected political behavior of the minister.
The minister previously defied official policy but was finally forced to submit to authority and conform during the parliamentary vote.
Clues such as 'defying', 'dissenting minister', and 'compelled' indicate a transition from rebellion to forced compliance with official rules.
2
Identify the standard English idiom that means to conform strictly to rules, authority, or organizational policy.
The phrase 'toe the line' means to follow regulations or adhere strictly to political discipline.
Originating from standing with toes aligned on a mark in military formation, its figurative meaning in modern English is conforming to established authority.

Key Concept

Idiom interpretation and completion in context: 'toe the line' means to conform strictly to rules, authority, or party policy under demand.
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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