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 11
Medium
Time flies when you're having fun
A Someone who isn't adequate enough to compete or participate
B Postpone a plan
C The waiting room, especially for those who are about to go on a tv or radio show
D The big issue people are avoiding
E None of these
Correct Answer: E

Explanation:

The idiom 'Time flies when you're having fun' means 'You don't notice how long something lasts when it's fun'.
Question 12
Medium
To make matters worse
A Keep something away
B Make a problem worse
C Take advantage of a good situation
D When everyone is facing the same challenges
E None of these
Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

The idiom 'To make matters worse' means 'Make a problem worse'.
Question 13
Easy
A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush
A Intelligent people think like each other
B The show has come to an end
C What you have is worth more than what you might have later
D Take on a project that you cannot finish
E None of these
Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

The idiom 'A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush' means 'What you have is worth more than what you might have later'.
Question 14
Hard
A penny saved is a penny earned
A Just barely
B Go to sleep
C Start over
D Run fast
E None of these
Correct Answer: E

Explanation:

The idiom 'A penny saved is a penny earned' means 'Money you save today you can spend later'.
Question 15
Easy
A picture is worth 1000 words
A A large number of people either falling ill or dying
B Better to show than tell
C Fail spectacularly
D Something that ends at the last minute or last few seconds
E None of these
Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

The idiom 'A picture is worth 1000 words' means 'Better to show than tell'.