Idioms and Phrases

The idiom 'to rip up old scores' means to revive or restart old quarrels, grievances, or conflicts that had been settled or forgotten. The term 'scores' here refers to old grudges or debts. It's about deliberately bringing up past disputes rather than letting them remain settled. It does not mean criticizing someone for past actions, straining to remember, or protecting oneself - it specifically means reopening old conflicts.

The idiom 'queer somebody's pitch' means to spoil someone's plans, interfere with their arrangements, or create obstacles that prevent someone from succeeding. The word 'queer' here is used in its older sense of 'to spoil' or 'to ruin,' while 'pitch' refers to someone's position, plan, or undertaking. It does not mean reprimanding, checking credentials, or working someone up - it specifically means sabotaging or disrupting someone's planned activities.

The idiom 'on the wagon' means abstaining from alcohol consumption. Jazz has stopped drinking liquor due to his health issues. Options A, B, and D refer to being bedridden or hospitalized, which is not what this idiom means.

'A square peg in a round hole' describes someone or something that doesn't fit properly in their current situation or position. A person unsuited to their job role exemplifies this mismatch. The other options describe impossible tasks or failed schemes, which isn't the idiomatic meaning.

Something to gain an advantage. Ace is used in card game and is marked as advantage for the one who gets it.

'The cat that ate the canary' describes someone looking extremely pleased or smug, typically after achieving something advantageous or getting away with something. Britney's satisfied expression after receiving her report card fits this perfectly. Depression or fear are opposite reactions.

'To oil the knocker' is an idiom meaning to bribe or tip someone, particularly a servant or subordinate, to gain favor or smooth access. The historical context refers to lubricating a door knocker to make it easier to use, metaphorically extended to greasing someone's palm.

'Will o' the wisp' refers to something that deceives or misleads, often appearing attractive but being unattainable or illusory. Originally referring to mysterious lights seen in marshlands (ignis fatuus), it metaphorically describes deceptive hopes or illusions that lead people astray.

"All moonshine" is an idiom that means nonsense, foolishness, or something that lacks substance. It refers to ideas or statements that are unrealistic or fanciful rather than grounded in reality. This expression emphasizes the absurdity or lack of value in what's being said.

The idiom "to hold something in leash" means to keep something under control or restraint. This phrase suggests maintaining strict oversight over something and preventing it from acting freely or without limits. The metaphor originates from using a leash to control an animal's movement.

"A fair crack of the whip" means giving everyone an equal opportunity to try or succeed. This idiom emphasizes fairness and equal treatment, suggesting everyone should get their turn or chance to perform. It originates from the idea of everyone getting to use the whip equally.

'Neck of the woods' means in a particular area or neighbourhood.

'Bite the dust' means to be defeated and it fits the context.

"Blue stocking" is a historical term referring to a learned or scholarly woman with literary and intellectual interests. This term originated from literary societies in the 18th century where women wore blue wool stockings instead of formal dress. It describes a woman who values education and intellectual pursuits over traditional social norms.