English Language

Idioms and Phrases

524 Questions

Idioms and phrases are expressions where the meaning differs from the literal definitions of the individual words. The questions require identifying the correct meaning of underlined expressions within sentences. Mastering this topic is essential to score well in the English language section of competitive exams.

idiom meaningsphrase substitutionsunderlined phrase interpretationcommon english expressionsidiomatic error detection

Idioms and Phrases Questions

Multiple choice

Directions: In the following question, choose the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the idiom/phrase printed in bold type.

To talk shop

  1. To talk nonsense

  2. To talk reasonably

  3. To talk about business or professional affairs

  4. To abuse someone

  5. None of these
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
C Correct answer
Explanation

The idiom 'to talk shop' refers to the act of discussing one's work, business, or professional affairs, especially in a social setting where it might be inappropriate.

Multiple choice

Directions: In the following question, choose the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the idiom/phrase printed in bold type.

To live fast

  1. To lead a life of dissipation

  2. To accomplish a purpose

  3. To do a task hurriedly

  4. To use up one's income as fast as it comes in

  5. None of these
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
A Correct answer
Explanation

To 'live fast' refers to living a life of excitement, often involving excessive pleasure, indulgence, or dissipation, which can be harmful to one's health or reputation.

Multiple choice

'O-Fay' is American slang meaning a

  1. White person

  2. Black person

  3. Young Turk

  4. Green Card Holder
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
A Correct answer
Explanation

The term 'O-Fay' is an American slang term derived from Pig Latin for 'foe', historically used to refer to a white person. It is not associated with the other groups listed.

Multiple choice

Which phrase means ‘praise and appreciation’?

Directions: Read the passage below and answer the questions given underneath.

India is home to the world's largest population of wild tigers but only 11% of the original Indian tiger habitat remains. From 1973, India's Project Tiger established over 25 tiger reserves, where human habitation was not allowed. The project was credited with tripling the number of wild Bengal tigers from some 1,200 in 1973 to over 3,500 in the 1990s, but a 2007 report showed that numbers had fallen down to about 1,400 tigers because of illegal hunting.

  1. To establish something new

  2. To give credit

  3. Human habitation is everywhere

  4. India has the largest population of tigers
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

‘The project was credited with tripling the number’.