Idioms and Phrases Practice Questions

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

Directions (Q. )

In each of the following questions, four alternatives are given for the idiom or phrase italicised in the sentence. Choose the option that best expresses the meaning of the italicised idiom or phrase.

Question 26
Hard
I put 20% of my paycheck into a separate account, just saving for a rainy day.
A Things might look bad on the outside, but are good inside
B Please forgive my use of profanity
C Saving money for later use
D Severe stiffness in the leg
Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

The idiom 'Saving for a rainy day' means 'Saving money for later use'. The context in the sentence highlights this usage.
Question 27
Medium
I'm feeling unwell tonight, can I take a rain check on our dinner plans?
A You can't force someone to make the right decision
B Something that ends at the very last minute
C Postpone a plan for another time
D When an attempt fails and it's time to start all over
Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

The idiom 'Take a rain check' means 'Postpone a plan for another time'. The context in the sentence highlights this usage.
Question 28
Hard
I've made my final offer for the house; now the ball is in your court.
A To intentionally ignore someone or show them no interest
B Just barely making it
C It's your decision to make now
D Something that happened completely without warning
Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

The idiom 'The ball is in your court' means 'It's your decision to make now'. The context in the sentence highlights this usage.
Question 29
Hard
This new vacuum cleaner is absolutely incredible; it's the best thing since sliced bread.
A To take the credit for something someone else achieved
B A really good invention or idea
C It's simply too late
D Money you save today you can spend later
Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

The idiom 'The best thing since sliced bread' means 'A really good invention or idea'. The context in the sentence highlights this usage.
Question 30
Easy
His recent demotion was the elephant in the room during the family dinner.
A Someone who is having a truly horrible day
B Not paying attention to reality
C Slapping palms as a celebration gesture
D The big issue people are avoiding discussing
Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

The idiom 'The elephant in the room' means 'The big issue people are avoiding discussing'. The context in the sentence highlights this usage.