Idioms and Phrases Practice Questions

5 questions per page • Detailed step-by-step solutions

Directions (Q. )

In each question below, an idiom or proverb is followed by several possible meanings. Choose the option that correctly conveys the meaning. If none of the options is correct, select 'E' ('None of these') as your answer.

Question 1
Medium
A blessing in disguise
A The first people get the best stuff
B This person or thing may look bad, but it's good inside
C Give away a secret
D A good thing that seemed bad at first
E None of these
Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

The idiom 'A blessing in disguise' means 'A good thing that seemed bad at first'.
Question 2
Easy
Bite the bullet
A To get something over with because it is inevitable
B Work better or leave
C Not be concentrating
D Move on, this subject is over
E None of these
Correct Answer: A

Explanation:

The idiom 'Bite the bullet' means 'To get something over with because it is inevitable'.
Question 3
Hard
Break a leg
A Have more energy after having been tired
B Very happy
C Good luck
D A visual presentation is far more descriptive than words
E None of these
Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

The idiom 'Break a leg' means 'Good luck'.
Question 4
Hard
Go back to the drawing board
A The waiting room, especially for those who are about to go on a tv or radio show
B Start over
C Everyone gets a chance at least once
D You can't force someone to make the right decision
E None of these
Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

The idiom 'Go back to the drawing board' means 'Start over'.
Question 5
Medium
Hang in there
A The worst possible situation
B Everything
C Get something exactly right
D Don't give up
E None of these
Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

The idiom 'Hang in there' means 'Don't give up'.