82 English Idioms and Expressions Tests
Short Description
Learn how to use idiom...
Description
TESTS
82 English Idioms and Expressions Tests Index ......................................................................................
1
Elementary Level 1. Adding Up ...............................................................................
6
2. Take it in ..............................................................................
7
3. Take it easy ............................................................................
8
4. For Good ................................................................................
9
5. In Control ..............................................................................
10
6. Out of Control ..........................................................................
11
7. All Agog ................................................................................
12
8. Preposition Exercises ...................................................................
13
9. Animal Idioms ...........................................................................
14
10. Funny Idioms ...........................................................................
15
11. Expressing Emotions ....................................................................
16
12. Just keep it ...........................................................................
17
Intermediate Level 1. Up to his ears ..........................................................................
18
2. Send the right message ..................................................................
19
3. A piece of cake .........................................................................
20
4. Picking you up ..........................................................................
21
5. As happy as the day is long .............................................................
22
6. Privacy .................................................................................
23
7. Hold on .................................................................................
24
8. Money to burn ...........................................................................
25
9. Go ahead ................................................................................
26
10. Under my Skin ..........................................................................
27
11. Home Sweet Home ........................................................................
28
12. No good ................................................................................
29
13. On the Water ...........................................................................
30
14. British Idioms .........................................................................
31
15. Expressions with cold ..................................................................
32
16. Way Idioms .............................................................................
33
17. Idioms with come .......................................................................
34
18. Common English Idioms ..................................................................
35
19. Idioms with Hand .......................................................................
36
20. English Idioms and Phrases .............................................................
37
1
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21. Expressions with make ..................................................................
38
22. Double Speak in Job Titles .............................................................
39
Advanced Level 1. English Animal Idioms ...................................................................
40
2. Hands on ................................................................................
41
3. Lucky Alex ..............................................................................
42
4. How Mary fell in love ...................................................................
43
5. Call it a day ...........................................................................
44
6. Live up to ..............................................................................
45
7. English Grammar Prepositions ............................................................
46
8. From Shakespeare originally .............................................................
47
9. Water Expressions .......................................................................
48
10. Cats, Dogs and Ducks ...................................................................
49
11. Losing It ..............................................................................
50
12. Splitting Hairs ........................................................................
51
13. Squeaky Clean ..........................................................................
52
14. Word of Mouth ..........................................................................
53
15. Expressions and idioms with thin .......................................................
54
16. Expressions with Top ...................................................................
55
17. Down to Earth ..........................................................................
56
18. Expressions with low ...................................................................
57
19. Hot expressions ........................................................................
58
20. Comparisons with as .... as ............................................................
59
21. Expressions with make ..................................................................
60
22. Egg expressions ........................................................................
61
23. Idioms with prepositions ...............................................................
62
24. Idioms with phrasal verbs ..............................................................
63
25. Mark Idioms ............................................................................
64
26. Retail Sales Expressions ...............................................................
65
27. American Slang Words (1) ...............................................................
66
28. American Slang Words (2) ...............................................................
67
29. American Slang Words (3) ...............................................................
68
30. American Slang Words (4) ...............................................................
69
31. American Slang Words (5) ...............................................................
70
32. American Slang Words (6) ...............................................................
71
33. American Slang Words (7) ...............................................................
72
34. American Slang Words (8) ...............................................................
73
35. American Slang Words (9) ...............................................................
74
36. American Slang Words (10) ..............................................................
75
37. American Slang Words (11) ..............................................................
76
2
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38. American Slang Words (12) ..............................................................
77
39. American Slang Words (13) ..............................................................
78
40. American Slang Words (14) ..............................................................
79
41. American Slang Words (15) ..............................................................
80
42. American Slang Words (16) ..............................................................
81
43. American Slang Words (17) ..............................................................
82
44. American Slang Words (18) ..............................................................
83
45. Clothing Idioms (1) ....................................................................
84
46. Clothing Idioms (2) ....................................................................
85
47. House/Building Idioms (1) ..............................................................
86
48. Food Idioms ............................................................................
87
Answer Keys ................................................................................
88
Elementary Level 1. Adding Up ...............................................................................
89
2. Take it in ..............................................................................
90
3. Take it easy ............................................................................
91
4. For Good ................................................................................
92
5. In Control ..............................................................................
93
6. Out of Control ..........................................................................
94
7. All Agog ................................................................................
95
8. Preposition Exercises ...................................................................
96
9. Animal Idioms ...........................................................................
97
10. Funny Idioms ...........................................................................
98
11. Expressing Emotions ....................................................................
99
12. Just keep it ...........................................................................
100
Intermediate Level 1. Up to his ears ..........................................................................
101
2. Send the right message ..................................................................
102
3. A piece of cake .........................................................................
103
4. Picking you up ..........................................................................
104
5. As happy as the day is long .............................................................
105
6. Privacy .................................................................................
106
7. Hold on .................................................................................
107
8. Money to burn ...........................................................................
108
9. Go ahead ................................................................................
109
10. Under my Skin ..........................................................................
110
11. Home Sweet Home ........................................................................
111
12. No good ................................................................................
112
13. On the Water ...........................................................................
113
14. British Idioms .........................................................................
114
3
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15. Expressions with cold ..................................................................
115
16. Way Idioms .............................................................................
116
17. Idioms with come .......................................................................
117
18. Common English Idioms ..................................................................
118
19. Idioms with Hand .......................................................................
119
20. English Idioms and Phrases .............................................................
120
21. Expressions with make ..................................................................
121
22. Double Speak in Job Titles .............................................................
122
Advanced Level 1. English Animal Idioms ...................................................................
123
2. Hands on ................................................................................
124
3. Lucky Alex ..............................................................................
125
4. How Mary fell in love ...................................................................
126
5. Call it a day ...........................................................................
127
6. Live up to ..............................................................................
128
7. English Grammar Prepositions ............................................................
129
8. From Shakespeare originally .............................................................
130
9. Water Expressions .......................................................................
131
10. Cats, Dogs and Ducks ...................................................................
132
11. Losing It ..............................................................................
133
12. Splitting Hairs ........................................................................
134
13. Squeaky Clean ..........................................................................
135
14. Word of Mouth ..........................................................................
136
15. Expressions and idioms with thin .......................................................
137
16. Expressions with Top ...................................................................
138
17. Down to Earth ..........................................................................
139
18. Expressions with low ...................................................................
140
19. Hot expressions ........................................................................
141
20. Comparisons with as .... as ............................................................
142
21. Expressions with make ..................................................................
143
22. Egg expressions ........................................................................
144
23. Idioms with prepositions ...............................................................
145
24. Idioms with phrasal verbs ..............................................................
146
25. Mark Idioms ............................................................................
147
26. Retail Sales Expressions ...............................................................
148
27. American Slang Words (1) ...............................................................
149
28. American Slang Words (2) ...............................................................
150
29. American Slang Words (3) ...............................................................
151
30. American Slang Words (4) ...............................................................
152
31. American Slang Words (5) ...............................................................
153
4
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32. American Slang Words (6) ...............................................................
154
33. American Slang Words (7) ...............................................................
155
34. American Slang Words (8) ...............................................................
156
35. American Slang Words (9) ...............................................................
157
36. American Slang Words (10) ..............................................................
158
37. American Slang Words (11) ..............................................................
159
38. American Slang Words (12) ..............................................................
160
39. American Slang Words (13) ..............................................................
161
40. American Slang Words (14) ..............................................................
162
41. American Slang Words (15) ..............................................................
163
42. American Slang Words (16) ..............................................................
164
43. American Slang Words (17) ..............................................................
165
44. American Slang Words (18) ..............................................................
166
45. Clothing Idioms (1) ....................................................................
167
46. Clothing Idioms (2) ....................................................................
168
47. House/Building Idioms (1) ..............................................................
169
48. Food Idioms ............................................................................
170
5
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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elementary-1
1.
English Idioms and Expressions / Elementary level # 1
Answers Index
Adding Up Q1
I cannot understand why she did that, it really doesn't add up. (a) doesn't calculate (c) doesn't make sense
Q2
(b) isn't mathematics (d) makes the wrong addition
All the students got high marks in the test but Mary stood out. (a) got a lot of marks (c) got very good marks
Q3
(b) got higher marks than someone (d) got the most marks of all
He has sold his house and has no job and so now he has next to nothing. (a) he is unemployed (c) he has a few things
Q4
As a newspaper reporter she always wanted to get information at first hand. (a) quickly
Q5
(b) he has almost no money (d) he has nothing at all
(b) slowly
(c) easily
I think we can safely say now that we have got our money back, we are home and dry. (a) have not got wet (c) have been successful
Q6
(c) the important man
(d) the enormous man
(b) is too fat
(c) is very full
(d) is very conceited
You will not slip over because the floor is as dry as a bone. (a) completely hard
Q9
(b) the huge man
She never stops talking about herself and is full of herself. (a) is very fat
Q8
(b) have got no water (d) have got home dry
He is the man who owns all the land and is the big fish around here. (a) the fat man
Q7
(d) directly
(b) extremely flat
(c) totally dry
(d) completely cracked
He kept saying he didn't do it but in the end he said he had done it. (a) at the end
(b) finally
(c) at last
(d) by the end
Q10 I know you are very sorry that you broke the pot but accidents will happen. (a) things will take place (c) things take place often
6
(b) things do occur (d) things often go wrong
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elementary-2
2.
English Idioms and Expressions / Elementary level # 2
Answers Index
Take it in Q1
I'm sorry I didn't take in what he said. (a) listen
Q2
(c) finish off sleep
(d) get out of bed
(b) start playing
(c) stop playing
(d) enjoy playing
(b) do a little
(c) do too little
(d) do too much
(b) start to land
(c) begin to arrive
(d) finish landing
(b) live simply
(c) live easily
(d) live quietly
I don't know who wrote this note because I can't make out the signature. (a) discover
Q9
(b) start for work
As a student she has just enough money to get by on. (a) live fully
Q8
(d) stands
When does your plane take off? (a) leave the ground
Q7
(c) takes
Don't overdo it because you're very tired. (a) do a lot
Q6
(b) follows
When you stop work, you can take up golf. (a) finish playing
Q5
(d) note
What time do you get up in the morning? (a) leave home
Q4
(c) understand
I hope she gets through her exams next week. (a) passes
Q3
(b) hear
(b) find
(c) read
(d) learn
We don't have enough money for a car so we make do with bicycles. (a) use many times
(b) use instead
(c) use sometimes
(d) use always
(c) reach home
(d) have a rest
Q10 What time do you get in after work? (a) have tea
7
(b) eat supper
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elementary-3
3.
English Idioms and Expressions / Elementary level # 3
Answers Index
Take it easy Q1
I just want to stay at home and watch television and take it easy. (a) sleep
Q2
(b) Must I
(b) do the housework
(b) calls out to (d) speaks quickly to
(b) full of
(c) interested in
(d) unhappy with
(c) write to me
(d) send me a telegram
(c) tried
(d) visited
(c) did a mistake
(d) made a mistake
(c) find the left
(d) keep to the left
Don't forget to drop me a line when you're away. (b) call me
She had never been to Paris before. (a) heard of
Q9
(d) clean the windows
We're fed up with the bad weather.
(a) telephone me Q8
(c) wash the floor
She never shouts at her children.
(a) very tired of Q7
(d) Will I
(b) Do you cook very often (d) Do you like cooking
(a) makes conversation with (c) talks in a loud voice to Q6
(c) Can I
When do you do the washing up? (a) clean the dishes
Q5
(d) relax
Are you any good at cooking? (a) Can you cook sometimes (c) Can you cook well
Q4
(c) eat
Am I allowed to smoke in here? (a) May I
Q3
(b) sit down
(b) read about
I'm afraid he has got it wrong. (a) said it incorrectly
(b) did an error
Q10 When you come to the crossroads, you turn left. (a) look left
8
(b) go to the left
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elementary-4
4.
English Idioms and Expressions / Elementary level # 4
Answers Index
For Good Q1
You'll never see your money again because I'm afraid he's gone for good. (a) clearly
Q2
(c) quickly
(d) slowly
You've no need to worry I promise you they'll arrive on Thursday for sure. (a) absolutely
Q3
(b) permanently
(b) positively
(c) definitively
(d) definitely
They're very generous in that museum — not only is the entrance fee reasonable but they give you a brochure for free. (a) at no cost
Q4
(b) to look at
(b) at little charge
(b) as humour
(c) at low charge
(d) at no charge
(c) as funny
(d) as joking
(b) to stop you worrying (d) to stop you sleeping
No wonder she's jumping for joy, she's just been given promotion. (a) very jumpy
Q9
(d) to work through
I do recommend you take out an insurance policy on the house for your own peace of mind. (a) to stop you thinking (c) to stop you believing
Q8
(c) to begin with
I know it didn't look like that but the truth is they only did it for fun. (a) as a joke
Q7
(d) at low cost
As you're a friend of mine, I won't charge you much in fact I'll do it for nothing. (a) at some charge
Q6
(c) at some cost
Well, for starters I honestly think we should work out what all this work is going to cost. (a) to work for
Q5
(b) at little cost
(b) very silly
(c) very happy
(d) very noisy
They decided to move away from the city to the countryside for the sake of the children. (a) speaking about
(b) talking about
(c) dreaming about
(d) thinking about
Q10 The battleships were all waiting in the harbour ready for action. (a) prepared for war (c) prepared for something
9
(b) prepared for anything (d) prepared for take off
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elementary-5
5.
English Idioms and Expressions / Elementary level # 5
Answers Index
In Control Q1
They tried in vain to save enough money to buy a house and so finally they rented one. (a) without money
Q2
(b) uncertain
(b) wealthy
(b) in good health
(d) unsafe
(d) slow
(c) in absolute health
(d) in clear health
(b) the boss is going to sack him (d) the boss is going to trouble him
What I really have in mind is a garden where there is very little to look after throughout the year. (b) believe
(c) visualize
(d) consider
Although Romeo and Juliet were deeply in love, they still managed to kill themselves. (a) loved each other often (c) loved each other most of the time
Q9
(d) at all sure
I'm sorry to say that he's in trouble again with the boss over being late for work so many times.
(a) think Q8
(c) unclear
(c) clever
(a) the boss is going to reprimand him (c) the boss is going to hit him Q7
(c) at all certain
Thanks to her regular workouts and sensible diet she certainly strikes me as in the pink. (a) in extreme health
Q6
(b) at all happy
Considering they are over 70 years old, you must admit they are in good shape. (a) fit
Q5
(d) without work
The children knew full well they were in danger skating because they had read the notice about the thin ice. (a) unhappy
Q4
(c) without success
If you are in any doubt about the offer, please give me a ring. (a) at all unsure
Q3
(b) without trial
(b) loved each other very much (d) loved each other mostly
I think you can stop worrying now because it's quite clear she's in command of the situation. (a) in control
(b) in sight
(c) in place
(d) in view
Q10 In time when you've got used to the idea, you'll be pleased you did it. (a) At last
10
(b) At first
(c) At least
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(d) Eventually
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elementary-6
6.
English Idioms and Expressions / Elementary level # 6
Answers Index
Out of Control Q1
If you don't tell the children the difference between right and wrong, they will soon be out of control. (a) well behaved
Q2
(c) unusual
(b) unable to find
(b) unlucky
(c) unable to follow
(c) unable
(b) unable to hear
(d) unable to see
(d) undecided
(c) unable to say
(d) unable to speak
You have a limited number of minutes to answer the test and you've spent 3 minutes so you're out of time. (a) you've used up your time (c) you've used for your time
Q7
(d) uncertain
Wait until they're out of earshot, then I tell you exactly what happened to them when they were on holiday. (a) unable to tell
Q6
(b) unsure
I'm very sorry but you're out of luck because we sold the last one about twenty minutes ago. (a) unhappy
Q5
(d) quickly behaved
Wait till they're out of sight, and then I'll show you what I'm buying them for Christmas. (a) unable to show
Q4
(c) suddenly behaved
If you think I'm going to parachute out of a plane for fun, you must be out of your mind. (a) mad
Q3
(b) badly behaved
(b) you've used in your time (d) you've used out your time
I'm afraid I'm not feeling too well at the moment because I've only walked a little way and I'm out of breath already. (a) I can't breathe slowly (c) I can't breathe fast
Q8
There's a big notice up there which unfortunately we didn't see because it said 'out of bounds'. (a) keep through
Q9
(b) I can't breathe quickly (d) I can't breathe easily
(b) keep out
(c) keep on
(d) keep in
I'm sorry to tell you that I can do nothing more for you because the situation is now out of my hands. (a) outside my sense
(b) outside my feelings
(c) outside my control
(d) outside my belief
Q10 I'm awfully sorry but I I'll have to ask you to pay because I'm out of cash. (a) I have no cheque
11
(b) I have no money
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) I have no card
(d) I have no bank
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elementary-7
7.
English Idioms and Expressions / Elementary level # 7
Answers Index
All Agog Q1
Unfortunately the cooker overheated and then exploded and so it really wasn't long before the whole house was alight. (a) in light
Q2
(d) with light
(b) still seeing
(c) still trying
(d) still living
They found that there was no possibility of work in their own country so they decided to try their luck abroad. (a) in another place
Q4
(c) with fire
After several days underground after the earthquake one child was pulled out alive. (a) still talking
Q3
(b) on fire
(b) in another town
(c) in another country
(d) in another city
I must congratulate her on the way she has overcome all her problems and gone back to her old job to start anew. (a) beginning
Q5
(b) got taken
(b) returned
(b) good to
(c) overturned
(c) similar to
(d) got lost
(d) determined
(d) different to
So many good ideas abound in his mind, he finds it difficult to know where to start. (a) exist all over (c) exist in different parts
Q9
(c) got missed
There are no two ways about it because the crime that has been committed is really akin to murder. (a) keen on
Q8
(d) twice more
When she told her parents that she had decided to get married, they were utterly taken aback. (a) surprised
Q7
(c) firstly
I've looked everywhere for my passport and can only assume it has gone astray. (a) got freed
Q6
(b) once more
(b) exist in large numbers (d) exist everywhere
I spent ages fixing the nail in the wall to put the picture up and then I stood back and found it was askew. (a) not straight
(b) not clear
(c) not definite
(d) not pretty
Q10 We couldn't wait for them to come home after their holidays as we were all agog to hear what had happened. (a) very concerned
12
(b) very prepared
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) very interested
(d) very worried
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elementary-8
8.
English Idioms and Expressions / Elementary level # 8
Answers Index
Preposition Exercises Q1
I'm sorry but that smells terrible because I'm afraid the meat is off. (a) has gone
Q2
(b) is small
(c) is bad
She just left him, said she was through with him and disappeared. (a) didn't want to see him again (c) didn't want to hear him again
Q3
(b) didn't want to help him (d) didn't want to please him
I'm on for tonight if you want to go to the match. (a) I'm ready to help
Q4
(b) I'm ready to cook
(c) ending
(d) terminated
(b) In confidence
(c) In fact
(d) In conclusion
(b) will travel
(c) will arrive
(d) will turn
(c) Clearly
(d) Incidentally
By the way did you manage to see that film last night? (a) Conveniently
Q9
(b) finishing
You won't have to wait too long because another bus will be along soon. (a) will drive
Q8
(b) very worried about (d) very happy about
Between you and me, so don't tell anyone, I'm sure he'll lose the election. (a) In truth
Q7
(d) I'm ready to go out
I believe that after all those arguments they agreed their marriage was over. (a) ended
Q6
(c) I'm ready to speak
He's always interested in elections and is very much into politics. (a) very concerned about (c) very interested in
Q5
(d) is dead
(b) Actually
It's quite clear to everyone that she's a socialist through and through. (a) from start to finish (c) from this to that
(b) from here till then (d) from time to time
Q10 I honestly don't think I can make it tonight as I'm feeling a little under the weather. (a) cold
13
(b) wet
(c) unwell
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(d) upset
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elementary-9
9.
English Idioms and Expressions / Elementary level # 9
Answers Index
Animal Idioms Q1
His wife never lets him do what he wants and as a result he leads a dog's life. (a) easts what he can (c) has an unhappy time
Q2
(b) never sleeps (d) goes everywhere on foot
A word of warning: don't let him make a monkey of you. (a) make you jump up and down (c) make you spend your money
Q3
I would advise you to wait and see which way the cat jumps. (a) what develops
Q4
(b) make faces at you (d) make a fool of you
(b) what goes
(b) people sometimes differ (d) people often shout
He's very greedy when it comes to eating and always takes the lion's share of the food. (a) last portion
Q6
(b) smallest portion
Until he is more serious in his job and stops playing the goat, he won't get any more money. (b) eating too much all the time (d) making jokes all the time
He never makes any silly mistakes because he's got too much horse sense. (a) common sense
Q9
(d) largest portion
(b) absolutely convinced (d) absolutely curious
(a) arriving late all the time (c) making too much noise all the time Q8
(c) first portion
I really don't know how to explain it as I am completely foxed. (a) absolutely sure (c) absolutely confused
Q7
(d) what falls
I don't honestly think he is capable of being polite as the leopard never changes his spots. (a) people always complain (c) people never change
Q5
(c) what comes
(b) nonsense
(c) absolute sense
(d) full sense
Charlie doesn't like getting too tired so he gets his assistant to do all the donkey work. (a) academic work
(b) artwork
(c) homework
(d) hard work
Q10 He doesn't really go around with many people because he's a bit of a lone wolf. (a) single person
14
(b) lonely person
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) unhappy person
(d) simple person
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elementary-10
10.
English Idioms and Expressions / Elementary level # 10
Answers Index
Funny Idioms Q1
You want to know why I've got a bee in my bonnet? (a) a headache (c) a problem on my mind
Q2
(b) a fly in my head (d) a difficulty with my hair
Yes, tell me about it. I'm all ears. (a) listening carefully (c) listening quickly
Q3
(b) listening quietly (d) listening completely
You remember I told you about that car that cost me an arm and a leg? (a) a fair amount of money (c) a good amount of money
Q4
(b) a small amount of money (d) a huge amount of money
The one you bought from the man you called the big cheese? (a) the man with big ears (c) the man with the yellow teeth
Q5
Well, he's not that at all. He's a bird brain. (a) a fool
Q6
(b) a criminal
(c) a conman
(d) a devil
(b) a dirty person
(c) a stupid person
(d) a dishonest person
You mean he's a bad egg? (a) a disgusting person
Q7
(b) the man with the important job (d) the man with the big smile
Yes, exactly because the car is rubbish and I went round to his garage like a bull in a china shop in the show room. (a) shouting at him (c) running up to him
Q8
And when I reached his office I saw he was not really awake because he'd been having a cat nap. (a) a deep sleep
Q9
(b) knocking everything over (d) hitting everybody
(b) a long sleep
(c) a short sleep
(d) a big sleep
And really the only reason you were there was because you had a bone to pick with him? (a) you wanted to have a discussion with him (c) you wanted to have a talk with him
(b) you wanted to have a chat with him (d) you wanted to have an argument with him
Q10 Yes, that's right. I got my money back and as a result I opened up a whole new can of worms because other people got their money back, too. (a) made a complete mess of his office (c) discovered some creatures on the carpet
15
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(b) exposed a lot of serious problems (d) revealed a lot of new paper work
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elementary-11
11.
English Idioms and Expressions / Elementary level # 11
Answers Index
Expressing Emotions Q1
I can't stand it when you talk to me like that! Stop doing that! (a) want to fall (c) want to be disobedient
Q2
I can't wait to hear about your English class. (a) am eager to
Q3
(b) feel like sitting down (d) despise
(b) am late to
(b) a lot
(c) too much
(d) less than before
(b) to make me angry
(c) to despise me
(d) to disappoint me
(b) truly
(c) madly
(d) abundantly
(c) are inconsiderate
(d) are selfish towards
The truth is that you don't care about me or my feelings. (a) are careful of
Q9
(d) disappointed
I love you from the bottom of my heart. (a) deeply
Q8
(c) in love with you
I wish I could trust you again, but all that you ever did to me was to let me down. (a) to make me cry
Q7
(b) impatient
I love you bunches! (a) a little
Q6
(b) to offer support in time of need for (d) to travel with
You've got me head over heels! (a) angry at you
Q5
(d) am happy to
I am glad I was able to be there for my friend when her mom died. (a) to cry with (c) to visit
Q4
(c) am indifferent
(b) are perceptive
I would like to apologize for what I said to you the other day. I was very insensitive to you. Will you forgive me? (a) compassionate
(b) sympathetic
(c) pathetic
(d) harsh
Q10 It's taking a long time for Jenna to get over the death of her mom. (a) fall back from
16
(b) recover from
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) regret
(d) laugh of
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elementary-12
12.
English Idioms and Expressions / Elementary level # 12
Answers Index
Just keep it Q1
Charlie's having a lot of problems with his business but at least he's keeping his head above water. (a) not drowning
Q2
(b) keeping dry
(d) trying to swim
That's the thing about Charlie even when things are really bad he doesn't panic and keeps his cool. (a) stays calm (c) uses a fan
Q3
(c) managing to survive
(b) turns on the air conditioning (d) puts ice on his head
In a situation like his of course the one thing you must do is keep the wolf from the door and try to find money to pay all the bills. (a) get rid of wild animals (c) make sure the door is locked
Q4
(b) get enough money to live on (d) not let wild animals in
At least Charlie can manage that but he doesn't go telling everyone about his problem and keeps himself to himself. (a) talks to himself a lot (c) stays in a lot
Q5
(b) doesn't go out much (d) doesn't talk about himself to others
Some of his friends are a bit worried about him because he doesn't seem so friendly to them as he used to be and keeps his distance. (a) doesn't let people get too close (c) decides how far to go
Q6
(b) doesn't travel far (d) doesn't like travelling
The main thing that you have to admire him for is that he doesn't get into trouble and keeps his nose clean. (a) blows his nose a lot (c) sneezes often
Q7
(b) behaves legally (d) breathes easily
It's surprising how few people knew that Charlie was having money problems but I suppose it was because he had kept it to himself. (a) looked after it
Q8
(b) locked it up
(c) held it tightly
(d) kept it secret
His problem really was that he had tried very hard to be as successful as the rest of the people in his street by trying to keep up with the Joneses. (a) to remain on the same social level as his neighbours (c) to travel at the same speed as his neighbours
Q9
(b) to run as fast as his neighbours (d) to reach the same place as his neighbours
When he confided in me, I promised Charlie that I wouldn't tell anybody about it and until now I have kept my word. (a) said what I did
(b) said what I could
(c) did what I said
(d) did what I could
Q10 My only advice to Charlie was to keep his chin up and stop worrying. (a) try to hold his head straight (c) try not to look on the ground
17
(b) try to be optimistic (d) try to remain upright
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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intermediate-1
13.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 1
Answers Index
Up to his ears Q1
He's up to his ears in work and cannot possibly see you now. (a) fully occupied with
Q2
(c) take my fingers
(d) pick me up
(b) facing them
(c) looking at them
(d) seeing them
(b) utterly
(c) directly
(d) simply
As she is new to the job I would ask you to keep an eye on her for the time being. (a) look at
Q6
(b) help me
The manager dismissed the new proposal out of hand and said that it was not at all practical. (a) quickly
Q5
(d) concerned with
I prefer to talk to people face to face rather than to talk on the phone. (a) in person
Q4
(c) not involved with
If you give me a hand, then I shall be able to finish more quickly. (a) take my hand
Q3
(b) very interested in
(b) consider
(c) check
(d) observe
The opposition in parliament accused the government of playing games and refusing to accept the seriousness of the situation. (a) being light hearted
Q7
(d) being faint hearted
(b) talking straight
(c) talking nonsense
(d) talking tough
The police advised them to go down to the cellar in order to be out of harm's way. (a) away from the noise
Q9
(c) being down hearted
He accused her of talking through her hat and refused to accept a word of what she said. (a) talking sense
Q8
(b) being heavy hearted
(b) inside the area
(c) into safety
(d) away from danger
I'd give my right arm if I could get tickets for that concert. (a) do absolutely anything (c) do something stupid
(b) do something dangerous (d) do what you want
Q10 You can always rely on Fred to put his foot in it and come out with a remark like that. (a) tread on somebody (c) say something embarrassing
18
(b) fall over (d) put on the wrong shoe
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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intermediate-2
14.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 2
Answers Index
Send the right message Q1
This sort of behaviour sends the wrong message to young people. (a) delivers the incorrect letter (c) does not talk properly
Q2
The government are unveiling plans today for a new tax system. (a) are covering up
Q3
(b) fails to communicate (d) does not set a good example
(b) are revealing
(b) I believe your words (d) I think you are right
You must admire the way she sticks to her guns. (a) she holds on to her pistol (c) she doesn't let her weapons go
Q5
(b) she maintains her opinion (d) she refuses to shoot
I'm sorry I can't follow that, run that past me again. (a) explain that once more (c) try and catch me up
Q6
(b) hurry up (d) come across
Keep your spirits up, it may not be as bad as you think. (a) Don't get depressed (c) Don't let the levels drop
Q7
(b) Carry on drinking (d) Maintain the heights
I'm afraid he shot himself in the foot when he took that action. (a) he hurt himself (c) he made a bad mistake for himself
Q8
(b) he injured himself (d) he damaged his body
Some people love scoring points when they are in an argument. (a) winning the game (c) taking the initiative
Q9
(d) are exposing
I hear what you are saying but I don't agree with you. (a) I understand what you mean (c) I am able to catch your words
Q4
(c) are opening
(b) taking advantage (d) taking the trouble
There is absolutely no mileage in pursuing that sort of discussion. (a) no future
(b) no interest
(c) no distance
(d) no time
Q10 He prefers to buy some more time by not deciding yet. (a) to pay a little longer (c) to pay a little later
19
(b) to get a better price (d) to delay a little longer
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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intermediate-3
15.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 3
Answers Index
A piece of cake Q1
You shouldn't worry about the exam because you have prepared well and you'll probably find it a piece of cake. (a) easy to digest
Q2
(b) easy to read
(b) lead a life of pleasure (d) eat too much
When he heard that the necklace had been stolen, he dropped it like a hot potato. (a) he let it fall from his hands (c) he gave it to somebody else
Q4
(b) he suddenly lost interest in it (d) he hid it in the fridge
He sits and watches TV all day and has turned into a veritable couch potato. (a) a good sleeper
Q5
(b) an enthusiast
As he had been away from home for some years, they decided on his return to cook the fatted calf. (b) go out for a meal (d) eat as much as they liked
There's something very fishy about that story he told us because I can't quite get to the bottom of it. (a) to do with the sea
Q8
(b) connected with fish
(c) suspicious
(d) strong smelling
Their mother always describes her twin sons as like two peas in a pod. (a) both round in shape (c) both saying the same thing
Q9
(d) a deep thinker
(b) in deep trouble (d) in rough water
(a) have a big celebration (c) employ a top chef Q7
(c) a very lazy person
Thanks to you we're really in the soup now and I don't honestly know why I ever listen to you. (a) in an interesting situation (c) in an unusual situation
Q6
(d) very easy
The trouble with you is that you are a bit selfish and your sole philosophy is to have your cake and eat it. (a) expect too much of life (c) spend your life eating
Q3
(c) easy to start
(b) both full of fun (d) both looking exactly alike
After what he said and after what has happened he certainly seems to have got egg on his face. (a) have made a fool of himself (c) have said the wrong thing
(b) have lost a lot of money (d) have made the wrong decision
Q10 He always took advice from his parents about being careful and never put all his eggs in one basket. (a) carried too much in one hand (c) decided to do anything dangerous
20
(b) relied too much on one plan (d) planned anything exciting
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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intermediate-4
16.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 4
Answers Index
Picking you up Q1
Nobody knows what's going on? (a) meaning
Q2
(b) look on you
(c) can't tolerate
(d) can't allow
(b) pulling you along
(c) trying to trick you
(d) trying to push you
(b) reading
(c) studying
(d) looking
(b) saying too much
(c) calling too much
(d) expecting too much
(c) searching
(d) discovering
(c) In the end
(d) Very soon
If you want my opinion, I think this needs looking into. (a) examining
Q9
(b) can't drink
I think you're asking too much of them as they are just children. (a) trying too much
Q8
(b) make you stand better (d) make you stay on better
He's always got his nose in a book. (a) hiding
Q7
(d) look after you
I have a feeling that she's taking you for a ride. (a) taking you in a car
Q6
(c) look for you
I simply can't stand sugar in my tea or coffee. (a) can't eat
Q5
(d) taking
What you need is something that will pick you up. (a) make you feel better (c) make you hold on better
Q4
(c) happening
Don't worry we'll see you're all right. (a) look at you
Q3
(b) continuing
(b) finding
One fine day I expect everything will be clear to you. (a) On a summer's day
(b) When the sun shines
Q10 I think the time has come when you should put your toe in the water at least. (a) go for a swim
21
(b) give it a try
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) feel the cold
(d) give it a chance
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intermediate-5
17.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 5
Answers Index
As happy as the day is long Q1
I'm sure that he could make a better job of being prime minister any day of the week. (a) whatever the details (c) whatever the circumstances
Q2
(b) whatever the time (d) whatever the week
Don't worry we pride ourselves on being helpful to all our customers and getting that booked for you is all in a day's work for us. (a) perfectly easy
Q3
(b) every other day
(b) stop thinking
(d) stop going
(b) assured us the answer (d) assured us agreement
We left the children playing in the park and they were as happy as the day is long. (b) quite happy
(c) very happy
(d) always happy
They got engaged about two years ago and at long last they have named the day. (a) said when they are getting married (c) said why they are getting married
Q9
(c) stop working
That last comment of yours won the day because nobody could possibly argue with you after that.
(a) reasonably happy Q8
(d) every two days
(b) stopped being popular (d) stopped being good
(a) assured us victory (c) assured us progress Q7
(c) every second day
You know what they said about radio that it had had its day but it's still going strong. (a) stopped being clever (c) stopped being heard
Q6
(d) perfectly normal
I think the time has now come when we'll simply have to call it a day. (a) stop trying
Q5
(c) perfectly done
Yes, we went away on holiday last week but it rained day in, day out. (a) every single day
Q4
(b) perfectly simple
(b) said where they are getting married (d) said if they are getting married.
I've been doing these exercises for two hours now and I think at long last I'm starting to see daylight. (a) see the answer to the problem (c) see the end of the task
(b) see the reason for the work (d) see the problems in the answers
Q10 I knew once the car didn't start, saw it had a flat tyre and also that it had started to rain, that this was going to be one of those days. (a) a day when nothing goes right (c) a day when little goes right
22
(b) a day when something goes wrong (d) a day when little goes wrong
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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intermediate-6
18.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 6
Answers Index
Privacy Q1
If I were you, I'd tell her to go jump in the river. (a) learn to swim
Q2
(b) get wet
(c) go away
I can't understand why he doesn't take the hint. (a) understand the point (c) understand the words
Q3
(b) discovering
(b) tried too long
(d) putting into
(c) waited too long
(d) stayed too long
She looked straight through him as soon as he entered the room. (b) looked carefully at him (d) didn't speak to him
Since the news broke about the disaster, he's been keeping a very low profile. (a) trying to look small (c) trying to be careful
Q9
(c) interfering in
(b) he prefers small crowds (d) he prefers walking slowly
(a) turned round (c) took no notice of him Q8
(d) be special
We asked him if he wanted to join us on the outing but he refused — I think he's a bit of a lone wolf. (a) he prefers to be alone (c) he prefers certain people
Q7
(c) be lonely
I get the impression that they think we've outstayed our welcome here. (a) remained longer
Q6
(b) be private
I wish they would stop poking their noses into our affairs. (a) sniffing around
Q5
(b) understand the speech (d) understand the talk
I should be grateful if you would let me keep myself to myself. (a) be quiet
Q4
(d) go fishing
(b) trying to look casual (d) trying not to be seen
After the political scandal in the government no-one in the cabinet is prepared to put their head above the parapet. (a) show their head
(b) raise their head
(c) speak in public
(d) speak in the air
Q10 If you really want to come out of this without too much damage, my advice is to play dumb. (a) speak stupidly
23
(b) say nothing
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) say silly things
(d) play the fool
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intermediate-7
19.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 7
Answers Index
Hold on Q1
The audience held their breath as the magician started to saw a woman half. (a) watched anxiously
Q2
(b) speak up
(b) be all right
(b) look over
(b) persuades
(b) consider
(d) be quiet
(c) be necessary
(d) be careful
(c) trust over
(d) belief over
(c) knows
(d) blames
(c) stay
(d) think
It was a very difficult race but the jockey held his own right until the end. (a) overtook the others (c) did better than the others
Q9
(c) start speaking
I think your best plan is to hold off making a decision until you know if you have passed the examination. (a) delay
Q8
(d) attend
He holds it against her that she never let him move house and start a new job. (a) trusts
Q7
(c) wait
I don't know what it is exactly but she seems to have some kind of hold over him. (a) control over
Q6
(b) listen
There's no need to change any of the regulations this year as the old ones will still hold good this year, too. (a) be finished
Q5
(d) couldn't watch
In the end she lost her temper and told her daughter to hold her tongue. (a) stand still
Q4
(c) couldn't breathe
The police officer called out to the driver to hold on until he arrived. (a) continue
Q3
(b) stopped breathing
(b) did as well as the others (d) tried to beat the others
Once he starts to talk about his favourite subject, he will hold forth until he is stopped. (a) speak loudly
(b) speak quickly
(c) speak endlessly
(d) speak slowly
Q10 The trouble is that whenever he's with strangers he always holds in his feelings. (a) shows
24
(b) restricts
(c) tells
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(d) allows
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intermediate-8
20.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 8
Answers Index
Money to burn Q1
Money is the root of all evil, so what's the point of earning a lot? (a) bad for your health (c) the reason for health
Q2
(b) the cause of greed (d) the cause of wickedness
In my opinion money talks and the little people are totally ignored. (a) rich people speak a lot (c) rich people have too much money
Q3
(b) rich people have influence (d) rich people are not silent
She's a really happy woman now because for once she's in the money. (a) spending a lot of money (c) got money to spend
Q4
For my money I would sooner go on a cruise than sit all day on the beach. (a) In my circumstances
Q5
(b) In my opinion
(c) In my situation
(d) In my time
He has very little to do but he gets well paid and agrees it's money for jam. (a) difficult money
Q6
(b) spending money quickly (d) got a little money
(b) hard money
(c) good money
(d) easy money
I think she should stop talking about it and put her money where her mouth is. (a) give money for talking too much (b) take money out of her mouth and be quiet (c) give money for something she says she believes in (d) give money for talking a lot about nothing
Q7
If you want to find some help with your project ask him because he's got money to burn. (a) he spends money slowly (c) he spends money wisely
Q8
(b) he spends money foolishly (d) he hardly spends money
As soon as he had won the lottery, he went crazy and started spending money like water. (a) spending money freely (c) spending money on swimming
Q9
(b) spending money at sea (d) spending money consistently
When you consider all the advantages you've gained I think you'll admit you had a good run for your money. (a) a lot of trouble with your money (c) a lot of time with your money
(b) to chase after your money (d) a lot of benefit from your money
Q10 She's made it clear that we don't need to worry because money is no object. (a) money is not important (c) money is not clear
25
(b) money is not definite (d) money is not available
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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intermediate-9
21.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 9
Answers Index
Go ahead Q1
I'm sorry that looks awful — those two colours don't go together. (a) smash
Q2
(b) sensed
(c) acted
(b) enter
(c) introduce
My advice to you is to make your mind up before it's too late and simply go for it.
(c) become rich
(d) become stale
(b) invited
(c) apposed
(d) opposed
Don't wait for me because I can't come yet so you go ahead and I'll join you later. (a) go before me
Q9
(b) become rotten
There were so many members of the political party who had gone against the leader that he resigned. (a) insisted
Q8
(b) take the opportunity fairly (d) take the opportunity slowly
I'm afraid you've left that food too long out of the fridge and now it's gone off. (a) become flat
Q7
(d) interrupt
(b) I think a lot of him (d) I don't think much of him
(a) take the opportunity soon (c) take the opportunity now Q6
(d) experienced
He's gone right down in my estimation now that I've heard what he has done to his family. (a) I think often of him (c) I don't think at all of him
Q5
(d) hash
We won't go into that now but I don't think we can avoid the subject much longer. (a) discuss
Q4
(c) clash
After what you've gone through, I'm sure you need a holiday. (a) felt
Q3
(b) crash
(b) go in front of me
(c) go forwards me
(d) go by me
If petrol prices go up any more, I shall have to use a bicycle. (a) ascend
(b) raise
(c) increase
(d) develop
Q10 I'm sorry I interrupted you, please go on from where I so rudely stopped you. (a) continue
26
(b) stop
(c) speak
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(d) finish
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intermediate-10
22.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 10
Answers Index
Under my Skin Q1
It was late at night, the wind was howling and when she heard the knock on the door, she almost jumped out of her skin. (a) was pleased
Q2
(b) was terrified
(c) was asleep
(d) was delighted
As they only had a few minutes to get to the station, they ran all the way and finally caught the train by the skin of their teeth. (a) just in time
Q3
(b) presses me
(b) she's not interested in criticism (d) she's not governed by criticism
He looked at her and in the words of Frank Sinatra said: 'I've got you under my skin'. (b) I'm very proud of you (d) I'm very surprised by you
It was simply a case of running away or being killed and we decided to run to save our skins. (a) to stay away
Q8
(b) to stay dry
(c) to stay clear
(d) to stay alive
Be very careful what you say to Georgina about her new hairstyle; remember she has a very thin skin. (a) she is very sensible (c) she is very feeling
Q9
(d) annoys me
It doesn't matter what you say to her I promise you, she's got a very thick skin.
(a) I'm very pleased with you (c) I'm very attracted to you Q7
(c) treats me
(b) it's not important to me (d) it's not bad for me
(a) she's not affected by criticism (c) she's not devoted to criticism Q6
(d) just by time
I wouldn't do that but you do whatever you like, as it's no skin off my nose. (a) it's no good to me (c) it's not clear to me
Q5
(c) just on time
There's something about him I just can't stand and he really gets under my skin. (a) pushes me
Q4
(b) just for time
(b) she is very sensitive (d) she is very sensing
I think the horse had been neglected for months and not been given enough to eat because it was just skin and bones. (a) very thin
(b) very old
(c) very tired
(d) very hungry
Q10 They say there's a very rare book in that pile of old books for sale so keep your eyes skinned. (a) look slowly
27
(b) look easily
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) look quickly
(d) look carefully
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intermediate-11
23.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 11
Answers Index
Home Sweet Home Q1
You must have lost your marbles if you're seriously considering buying that house. (a) be serious
Q2
(b) be crazy
(b) you're joking a little (d) you're describing a little
All right then if you like I'll put my cards on the table. (a) I'll tell you a story (c) I'll tell you something
Q4
(b) I'll tell you what to do (d) I'll tell you my honest opinion
I'd appreciate that. Go on, I'm all ears. (a) I can hear what you're saying (c) I am listening to you
Q5
(b) I am listening very carefully (d) I can't hear a word
Well in the first place all the windows are broken, which is a real pain in the neck. (a) a bad ache
Q6
(b) a serious ache
(b) worth talking about (d) worth speaking about
(b) a sum of money
(c) some money
(d) a lot of money
You have a point but then I can deal with that in the fullness of time. (a) in a little while
Q9
(d) a bad shock
Then of course there is that huge crack in one of the outer walls, that'll cost you an arm and a leg to repair. (a) a little money
Q8
(c) a serious problem
Yes, I agree but at the same time it's not the end of the world. (a) worth worrying about (c) worth looking at
Q7
(d) be happy
If you don't mind me saying so I think you're a bit over the top, aren't you? (a) you're exaggerating a bit (c) you're laughing a bit
Q3
(c) be adventurous
(b) eventually
(c) quite soon
(d) sometimes
Finally there's one thing you can't just sweep under the carpet and that is the missing roof! (a) forget
(b) remember
(c) ignore
(d) interpret
Q10 I can see there are no flies on you but you must admit it is very cheap. (a) you're not clear
28
(b) you're not easy
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) you're not clever
(d) you're not stupid
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intermediate-12
24.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 12
Answers Index
No good Q1
They're not getting away with it! They must pay for what they have done. (a) They won't come back (c) They won't do it again
Q2
I'm not putting up with that! She must do as I say. (a) I disagree
Q3
(b) in some way
(b) Improbable
(b) refused
(d) in no way
(c) Impossible
(d) Untrue
(d) reclined
I honestly don't know how you do it because personally I couldn't cope. (b) would be unable to stay (d) would be unable to handle
This happens every time I start the engine up. I tell you I can't be doing with it. (a) I find it difficult (c) I find it stupid
Q8
(c) in that way
(c) repeated
(a) would be unable to manage (c) would be unable to hold Q7
(d) I resist
We invited her to come to our party in the hope of putting things right but she wouldn't wear it. (a) rejected
Q6
(c) I object
They asked me whether I would accept a discount instead of a new machine. No chance, I said. (a) Unlikely
Q5
(b) I confirm
I made it absolutely clear that he could on no account expect a pay rise this year. (a) in this way
Q4
(b) They won't succeed (d) They won't go again
(b) I find it irritating (d) I find it hard
This is now the third time I've had to phone up and complain and I've reached the stage where I can see no end to it. (a) I don't know where I'm going (c) I don't know why it's happening
Q9
(b) I don't know what I'm doing (d) I don't know when it will finish
It's no good shouting at me like that — I'm doing the best I can. (a) It's a waste of time (c) It's a waste of money
(b) It's a waste of space (d) It's a waste of doing
Q10 You'll get yourself in no end of trouble if you persist in refusing to pay those taxes. (a) a certain amount
29
(b) a big amount
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) a huge amount
(d) a special amount
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intermediate-13
25.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 13
Answers Index
On the Water Q1
As usual he left it to the last moment and as a consequence he missed the boat. (a) didn't take advantage of the situation (c) didn't take advantage of the fare
Q2
I'm sorry to tell you that you've burnt your boats now and so you won't be able to go back. (a) your current situation cannot be reversed (c) your current situation cannot be retaken
Q3
(c) spoil everything
(d) spoil nothing
(b) be well disposed
(c) be well received
(d) be well placed
Although they were a couple well into their 80's everything in their house was always shipshape. (a) very old
Q7
(b) spoil anything
We were all a bit worried about the new manager because we heard that she liked to run a tight ship. (a) be well organized
Q6
(b) in a similar find (d) in a similar situation
No matter how smoothly things are running, you can always rely on Charlie to rock the boat. (a) spoil something
Q5
(b) your current situation cannot be repeated (d) your current situation cannot be restyled
I told her I understood exactly what she was feeling as we were both after all in the same boat. (a) in a similar case (c) in a similar take
Q4
(b) didn't take advantage of the opportunity (d) didn't take advantage of the date
(b) very neat
(c) very fresh
(d) very clean
Everybody imagined that there was a big romance between the two of them but it turned out they were merely ships that pass in the night. (a) strangers meeting quietly (c) strangers meeting once
Q8
(b) strangers meeting softly (d) strangers meeting nightly
Sadly it never happened but she was absolutely sure her ship would come in one day and she could buy that house in the country. (a) she would be famous
Q9
(b) she would be free
(c) she would be happy
(d) she would be rich
In view of his change in fortune he decided to push the boat out and hold a big party. (a) spend a lot of money (c) spend a lot of effort
(b) spend a lot of time (d) spend a lot of energy
Q10 Once you've read the instruction book, you'll probably find it's plain sailing. (a) accurate
30
(b) active
(c) straightforward
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(d) intelligent
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intermediate-14
26.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 14
Answers Index
British Idioms Q1
I had quite a shock last night. I ran into an old flame of mine. (a) a bright light (c) a former girlfriend
Q2
(b) a brilliant person (d) sparkling personality
I suppose she was the apple of your eye at the time. (a) your favourite fruit (c) your favourite person
Q3
Yes, I suppose she was but she'd changed so. She was all skin and bone. (a) very thin
Q4
(b) very mean
(b) very calm
(b) a clever reason for getting involved (d) a simple reason for getting involved
No, not really except she did get angry sometimes but her bark was worse than her bite. (b) not as dangerous as she seemed (d) not as clear as she appeared
Was she going anywhere or was she at a loose end? (a) doing nothing particular (c) doing lots of lazy things
Q9
(d) very stupid
(b) no interested feelings (d) no funny feelings
(a) not as stupid as she sounded (c) not as tall as she looked Q8
(c) very rude
You mean there was no bad blood between the two of you? (a) no hostile feelings (c) no strange feelings
Q7
(d) very poor
Well I didn't have an axe to grind as far as she's concerned. (a) a straight reason for getting involved (c) a personal reason for getting involved
Q6
(c) very fat
And I suppose you didn't panic and were as cool as a cucumber? (a) very bored
Q5
(b) your favourite meal (d) your favourite book
(b) doing something special (d) doing many casual things
Not really. Funny thing is I asked her out and she didn't bat an eyelid. What I want to know is whether I did the right thing. (a) didn't answer me (c) didn't help me
(b) didn't look at me (d) didn't show any reaction
Q10 I can't help you there my friend. The ball is in your court. (a) You must look out
31
(b) You must decide
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) You must try harder
(d) You must accept
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intermediate-15
27.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 15
Answers Index
Expressions with cold Q1
The way he murdered his victims in a slow, painful way was really cold-blooded. (a) without feeling
Q2
(b) turns cold
(b) deals about
(b) little peace
(b) an impassive person
(b) unusual calls
(d) panics
(c) feelings about
(d) thoughts about
(c) little consolation
(d) little trust
(c) a feeling person
(d) a lazy person
(c) unfair calls
(d) unwanted calls
You never really know where you are with her as she just blows hot and cold. (a) keeps talking (c) keeps changing her mood
Q9
(c) gets lost
Every day we get cold calls on the phone from total strangers trying to sell you something. (a) unfriendly calls
Q8
(d) defeat
It's difficult to describe him because he doesn't really say or do much he's what you might call a cold fish. (a) a suspicious person
Q7
(c) ignore
All right he got some money for his troubles but not very much and really it was cold comfort to him. (a) little fuss
Q6
(b) dampen
I'm afraid I'm getting cold feet about this scheme as I'm not sure it's such a good idea. (a) worried about
Q5
(d) without warmth
Unfortunately he breaks into a cold sweat when he sees her, can't think straight and doesn't know what to do. (a) shivers
Q4
(c) without heat
Whenever they met, she would always manage to cold shoulder him and turn the other way. (a) freeze
Q3
(b) without sense
(b) keeps taking things (d) keeps testing
They refused to let her into their circle of friends and left her out in the cold. (a) all alone
(b) without heat
(c) all ready
(d) all cold
Q10 You know he won't approve as he always pours cold water on any new ideas. (a) dislikes
32
(b) detracts
(c) deceives
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(d) disapproves of
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intermediate-16
28.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 16
Answers Index
Way Idioms Q1
By the way are you thinking of going on holiday? (a) Incidentally
Q2
(b) I'm trying you
(b) have gone up gradually (d) have gone up hugely
(b) on our route
(c) on our excursion
(d) on our crossing
(b) in the middle
(c) in order
(d) in control
We don't usually allow refunds but once in a way we agree. (a) often
Q7
(d) I'm finding you
At the moment plans are under way and the work should be finished next year. (a) in progress
Q6
(c) I'm hindering you
As your house is on our way, we'll give you a lift home if you like. (a) on our trip
Q5
(d) Nevertheless
Every investor is really pleased because profits are way up this year. (a) have gone up some (c) have gone up moderately
Q4
(c) Naturally
If I'm in your way, I'll leave the room. (a) I'm confusing you
Q3
(b) However
(b) directly
(c) frequently
(d) occasionally
The army commander was very concerned about his troops and would never allow them to be in harm's way. (a) in fights
Q8
(b) in battle
(c) in combat
You'll just have to make a decision. You can't have it both ways. (a) benefit by cancelling two vertical views (c) benefit by agreeing to two similar views
Q9
(d) in danger
(b) benefit by agreeing to two opposite views (d) benefit by agreeing to two average views
In view of the considerable opposition the members agreed to give way. (a) yield
(b) sustain
(c) suspect
(d) volunteer
Q10 She left school and immediately started to make her own way without help from her family. (a) find her living
33
(b) try her living
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) earn her living
(d) hold her living
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intermediate-17
29.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 17
Answers Index
Idioms with come Q1
Come again? Sorry, I didn't hear what you said. (a) Return it to me (c) Can you repeat that
Q2
Your mom is going to come down hard on you if you don't clean your room now. (a) reprimand
Q3
(c) was concealed
(d) was revealed
(b) discover
(c) vindicate
(d) reveal
(b) become a fairy tale
(c) surfaced
(d) been revealed
(b) dominated
(c) got sick with
(d) got healed from
In the end, it all comes down to the fact that you don't really care about me. (a) intercedes to
Q8
(b) was sheathed
A lot of people from the office I work at came down with the flu this past week. (a) spread
Q7
(d) assist
My dream of having my own house has finally come true. (a) happened
Q6
(c) exonerate
Robert Koch was the first person to come up with a medicine to help in the treatment of Tuberculosis. (a) eradicate
Q5
(b) reward
New evidence came to light at the end of the trial. (a) was hidden
Q4
(b) Speak louder, please (d) Can you come back
(b) interferes to
(c) conspires to
(d) is because of
When my boss asked me to come to his office this morning, little did I know I was coming in for some harsh comments. (a) going to go through
Q9
(b) going to make
(c) going to profess
(d) going to interpret
I was turning into the left lane when a car came out of nowhere and hit me. (a) stopped right in front of me (c) spun over
(b) suddenly appeared (d) fell off a truck
Q10 I need to come to terms with myself. (a) have a dialogue (c) stop disappointing
34
(b) discuss (d) objectively and entirely confront and understand
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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intermediate-18
30.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 18
Answers Index
Common English Idioms Q1
Tom told Andrea that giant turtles had escaped from the city zoo and were eating only left-handed people. It wasn't until she saw the smirk on his face that Andrea noticed he was just pulling her leg. (a) trying to hurt her (c) making fun of her
Q2
Why should she stick her neck out for them? They never helped her with anything. (a) ask for money
Q3
(b) fooling her (d) trying to make her fall
(b) stand up
(b) forgot (d) pretended he didn't know
It seems like something has been eating at John lately. He's just not the same person any more. (a) changing (c) confusing
Q5
(b) challenging (d) bothering and upsetting
I have a feeling in my gut that one of the employees is giving information about his boss to another company. (a) strong fear (c) slight hint
Q6
(b) really strong instinct (d) a lot of proof
Andrew and Ana have been dating each other for so long that I think it's about time they got hitched. (a) moved in together (c) got married
Q7
(b) went on a honeymoon (d) met each other's parents
Bob's mom jumped down his throat when she saw his report card from school. (a) was thrilled with him (c) was angry with him
Q8
(b) was annoyed with him (d) was happy for him
It turns me off when guys dont respect my boundaries. (a) makes me completely lose interest (c) makes me sorry
Q9
(d) lie
I am so mad at my boyfriend. We were supposed to have a date last night at the park but he stood me up. (a) didn't come (c) took me somewhere else
Q4
(c) take a big risk
(b) makes me angry (d) regrets me
Ever since Melanie won the Miss Universe Competition, her telephone has been ringing off the hook. (a) broken (c) ringing constantly
(b) cut off (d) ringing every now and then
Q10 I think George and Lisa would make a great couple. We should try to hook them up. (a) separate them (c) make them buy one another presents
35
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(b) make them hug one another (d) get them together
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intermediate-19
31.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 19
Answers Index
Idioms with Hand Q1
We need to do something about it! This situation is getting out of hand! (a) too big
Q2
(b) in trouble
(b) scattered
Do we have enough people on hand to help us move our stuff into the house? (b) available
(c) indisposed
(d) confident
The FBI told the local police that their case was off their hands. The investigation was now a Federal matter. (b) improvised by them (d) out of their control
Jane Williams is a very good investigative reporter, you've got to hand it to her. (a) give her credit (c) give a promotion to her
Q9
(d) took possession of
(b) remote (d) in someone's possession
(a) lost by them (c) out of their jurisdiction Q8
(c) released
The beginning of a new generation of computer software is at hand.
(a) nearby Q7
(d) to obey them
(b) at a huge rate (d) distribution
(a) imminent (c) current Q6
(c) spanked
As soon as he laid his hands on all that money, he donated part of it to charitable institutions. (a) stole
Q5
(d) out of order
This last year, my company has made money hand over fist! (a) with a lot of struggle (c) poorly
Q4
(c) out of control
Now the grandparents have the children on their hands. (a) in their care
Q3
(b) too organized
(b) give a present to her (d) forgive her
Honey, can you hand me the car key, please? It's right next to you on the table. (a) take to me
(b) make a copy of
(c) give me
(d) find me
Q10 Learning a foreign language goes hand in hand with International Business. (a) tossed from one hand to another (c) individually
36
(b) in different directions (d) together
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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intermediate-20
32.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 20
Answers Index
English Idioms and Phrases Q1
You have to raise your voice a little when talking to him. He's a little hard of hearing. (a) stubborn (c) deaf
Q2
(b) quiet when he speaks (d) distracted
I went to a real nice restaurant yesterday. The food cost was cheap and they served a lot of food. I had to ask for a doggy bag because I couldn't eat the whole thing. (a) package to store left over food so the person can take it home (c) special order where you get smaller meal sizes
Q3
Fabian was a doormat. No wonder his classmates were always giving him a hard time. (a) snob
Q4
(b) dog bowl so you can give the rest of the food to your dog (d) kid's meal
(b) geek
(c) coward
(d) chubby boy
I invited a friend to go to a street market by my house where they served some real good Japanese food. My friend's mom wanted to pay for her daughter's meal, but I insisted on paying for both our meals myself, her mom finally said: Ok, as long as we go Dutch next time. (a) I pay for your meal (c) you let me drive you there
Q5
So, is everything plain as a pikestaff? Oh, yes indeed sir! (a) clean
Q6
(b) you take me with you (d) we divide the costs
(b) clear
(c) messy
We are having a pot-luck dinner at Tim's house tomorrow. Everybody is invited! (a) dinner where everybody brings something to eat (c) dinner where only soup is served
Q7
(d) in position
(b) dinner where everybody chips in (d) dinner where people eat and play games at the same time
I need everybody's help. The wedding is tomorrow and we haven't even started with the decorations yet. We have no time to lose. (a) been procrastinating (c) extra time
Q8
(b) to remember what time it is (d) to start right now
Just keep your wig on. Everything is going to be alright, okay? (a) hold your wig so it won't fall off (c) calm down
Q9
(b) get another hair cut (d) throw a fit
Kyle was saved by the bell when his sister walked in and asked him to take her to ballet practice. (a) rescued from an unwanted situation (c) obligated to comply
(b) detained from his duty (d) obliged to cooperate
Q10 I would stay away from that guy if I were you, he has a screw loose. (a) is dangerous
37
(b) is annoying
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) is a flirt
(d) is crazy
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intermediate-21
33.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 21
Answers Index
Expressions with make Q1
Everybody thought Jane and Elliot were a happy couple, but it was all just make believe. (a) modesty
Q2
(b) pretending
(c) reality
(d) denial
I've been working hard for the last few months trying to make ends meet, but something I'm not even expecting always comes up and I have to pay for it. (a) make enough money to pay for expenses (c) meet my family's needs
Q3
Man's first walk on the moon made history. (a) was forgotten (c) was unheard of
Q4
(b) is only talked about in history books (d) was meaningful enough to influence history
You can make people's day just by telling them how important they are to you. (a) displease people (c) give people great pleasure
Q5
(b) resent people (d) antipathize people
If I had a chance to go to Paris, I would make the most of it. (a) be satisfied with (c) go there as soon as possible
Q6
(c) hid herself
(d) acted like a fool
(b) conjured up
(c) told your mom
(d) postponed
Now it makes sense to me why you moved out of that house. (a) I am intrigued
Q9
(b) had a fight
So, George... Have you made up your mind where you want to go for your internship? (a) decided
Q8
(b) take great advantage of (d) drawback from
Charity made a scene at the club when she saw her boyfriend dancing with another girl. (a) played a role
Q7
(b) survive (d) make good business
(b) I understand
(c) it frustrates me
(d) it concerns
(c) succeeded
(d) blew it
(c) flattering
(d) flirting with
Ana finally made it. She is an excellent doctor. (a) failed
(b) receded
Q10 Mom, can you tell Todd to stop making fun of me? (a) mocking
38
(b) lying to
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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intermediate-22
34.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 22
Answers Index
Double Speak in Job Titles Q1
The school custodian was the main suspect of the girl's disappearance. (a) principal
Q2
(b) a business partner
(b) bodyguards
(c) lawyers
(d) reporters
(b) a potato chip delivery truck driver (d) a waiter
(b) a plastic surgeon
(c) an artist
(d) top model
My mom used to work at a hospital as a patient care assistant. (a) a psychologist
Q7
(d) secretary
I have always wanted to be an esthetician. (a) a hairdresser
Q6
(c) clerk
George is in the food business now. He is an Executive Snack Route Consultant. (a) a restaurant cheff (c) a chief
Q5
(d) receptionist
Celebrities are usually surrounded by their personal protection specialists. (a) fans
Q4
(c) janitor
Linda got a job as an executive assistant in a Law Firm. (a) a manager
Q3
(b) teacher
(b) a social worker
(c) a nurse
(d) a general surgeon
Bob used to work as a media courier during school summer breaks when he was a kid, now he has his own newspaper. (a) a reporter from the school newspaper (c) a newspaper delivery boy
Q8
(b) a newspaper seller boy (d) a television news announcer
Some places in New York have advertised on the newspaper they needed part-time career associate scanning professionals. (a) check-out clerks
Q9
(b) door greeters
(c) store supervisors
(d) grocery baggers
The day before Carol's wedding, her bridesmaids went to see a nail technician. (a) a professional who designs fake nails (c) a person who sells nails
(b) a specialist in nail diseases (d) a manicurist
Q10 The meteorologist said on TV that it is supposed to rain all day tomorrow. (a) astronomer (c) fortune teller
39
(b) television weatherman (d) TV anchor
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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advanced-1
35.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 1
Answers Index
English Animal Idioms Q1
There are times when you must decide and take the bull by the horns. (a) make the right decision (c) make a bold decision
Q2
(b) make the wrong decision (d) make a final decision
He leads a dog's life really because his freedom is always curtailed. (a) never knows what to do (c) never goes out
Q3
(b) sometimes does something wrong (d) never does what he wants
No-one ever mentions him because he's regarded as the black sheep of the family. (a) the one with a sense of humour (c) the one who is always late
Q4
(b) the one with a bad reputation (d) the one who never washes
I shouldn't go outside without a raincoat because it's raining cats and dogs. (a) it's just started to rain (c) it's raining very heavily
Q5
(b) it's going to rain (d) it's raining a little
You shouldn't sign there I think he's about to make a monkey out of you. (a) to make a fool of you (c) to make you feel stupid
Q6
(b) to make you lose money (d) to make you lose interest
It's a lovely house and very big but nobody uses it so it's a bit of a white elephant. (a) something very beautiful and useful (c) something very cheap and useless
Q7
When the business folded, he took the lion's share of the assets. (a) the easiest part
Q8
(b) the smallest part
(c) the biggest part
(d) the only part
Without my glasses I can't see where I'm going in fact I'm as blind as a bat. (a) very short sighted
Q9
(b) something very big and useful (d) something very expensive and useless
(b) very long sighted
(c) very far sighted
(d) very clear sighted
I get very irritated sometimes because they're always up with the lark and I like to lie in. (a) up very easily
(b) up very early
(c) up very often
(d) up very noisily
Q10 I would advise you to do that as well and in that way you'll kill two birds with one stone. (a) get things done twice (c) get two things done at the same time
40
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(b) get something done two times (d) get two things done twice
© www.english-test.net
advanced-2
36.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 2
Answers Index
Hands on Q1
The opposition party dismissed the government's proposal out of hand. (a) without further consideration (c) without thinking
Q2
Since she started work on the stock exchange she has been making money hand over fist. (a) in moderation
Q3
(b) in large quantities
(b) simplified
(d) to some extent
(c) leisurely
(d) indifferent
It's no good asking anybody in that shop to help you because they won't lift a finger. (a) show you the way (c) take your order
Q5
(c) to a certain extent
They have lost all their money and now lead a sort of hand to mouth existence. (a) impoverished
Q4
(b) with some hesitation (d) with reluctance
(b) carry your goods (d) do anything at all for you
In the obituary about the millionaire all his enterprises were listed and it looked as if he had had a finger in every pie. (a) a control over many activities (c) an interference in many activities
Q6
(b) an involvement in many activities (d) a belief in many activities
I've just bought a brand new car with all the latest gadgets and quite honestly it has cost me an arm and a leg. (a) a reasonable amount of money (c) a huge amount of money
Q7
I don't want to have to twist your arm but I hope you realize that your refusal to comply could be harmful. (a) allow you to agree
Q8
(b) a fair amount of money (d) a good deal of money
(b) force you to agree
(c) beg you to agree
(d) ask you to agree
Have a look at the benefits that the society can offer you and then you may feel like dipping your toe in the water. (a) deciding to try membership straightaway (c) deciding to try membership for a year
Q9
(b) deciding to try membership quite soon (d) deciding to try membership for a trial
If you do join a political party then you are expected to toe the line on every occasion. (a) say what you like (c) follow your conscience
(b) stick to the rules (d) speak your mind
Q10 I wouldn't say I never see eye to eye with my employers but sometimes they can make extraordinary demands. (a) totally side
41
(b) totally work
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) totally agree
(d) totally disagree
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advanced-3
37.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 3
Answers Index
Lucky Alex Q1
Alex had lost a lot of money and as a consequence was feeling down in the dumps. (a) lonely
Q2
(b) miserable
(b) tried his luck with (d) put a lot of faith in
This horse in all honesty didn't have a snowball's chance in hell of winning. (a) a chance in a million (c) a chance of success
Q4
(d) uneasy
He had given in to a longstanding weakness of his and pinned his hopes on the favourite winning the race. (a) made a wish about (c) made a promise
Q3
(c) uncomfortable
(b) a chance worth taking (d) a chance of a lifetime
Alex said he had had a dream about the horse winning but most people regarded this story with a pinch of salt. (a) with enthusiasm
Q5
(b) with caution
(c) with care
(d) with luck
What happened was that the stupid animal took fright halfway through the course and without batting an eyelid decided to go back to the start. (a) taking a chance
Q6
(b) turning round
(c) looking
(d) worrying at all
As far as Alex was concerned this was the last straw and he vowed he would never risk money on a horse ever again. (a) the final decision
Q7
(b) the final moment
(b) didn't have a penny (d) didn't have a ticket
He decided he would swallow his pride and try and hitchhike. (a) take his medicine (c) not worry what people thought
Q9
(d) the final occasion
The trouble was that he didn't have a bean not even enough to pay for the fare home. (a) didn't have a wallet (c) didn't have any change
Q8
(c) the final disaster
(b) take no interest in other people (d) forget about himself
Fortunately it wasn't long before he got a lift with an old man who had a heart of gold and gave him some money. (a) was very generous
(b) was very wise
(c) was very old
(d) was very ill
Q10 He told him to invest it wisely, which Alex did. He bought a ticket for the lottery and his ship came home because he won the jackpot. (a) his mind changed
42
(b) his opinion changed
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) his luck changed
(d) his views changed
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38.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 4
Answers Index
How Mary fell in love Q1
Most people like to come home after work and put their feet up. (a) take their socks off (c) relax
Q2
(b) take their shoes off (d) sit down
Mary was exactly the same as everybody else but this particular night she wanted to let her hair down. (a) wash her hair (c) really enjoy herself
Q3
She put her favourite CD on and turned it up full blast. (a) to complete volume
Q4
(b) comb her hair (d) really comb her hair
(b) to exact volume
(b) there was sound of thunder (d) there was an enormous flame
Her next door neighbour soon got fed up to the back teeth with the noise. (a) grew hungry with
Q6
(b) grew angry with
In the end her neighbour decided to speak his mind. (b) have a chat (d) express a point of view
Although he had never met her, he was determined to read her the riot act. (a) tell her off
Q9
(d) grew very tired of
(b) took some notice (d) took the most interest
(a) say exactly what he thought (c) say a few words Q8
(c) grew mad about
He started hammering on the adjoining wall but Mary carried on regardless. (a) took little interest (c) took not the slightest notice
Q7
(d) to maximum volume
As soon as she had done that, all hell was let loose. (a) there was loud hum (c) there was a huge noise
Q5
(c) to fine volume
(b) tell her a story
(c) tell her straight
(d) tell her the truth
Mary opened the door and as soon as they saw each other they fell head over heels in love with each other. (a) quickly
(b) utterly
(c) easily
(d) slowly
Q10 A few months later they decided to knock down the adjoining wall and now everything in the garden is lovely. (a) the flowers are growing (c) everything is growing
43
(b) everything is perfect (d) everything is flowering
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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39.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 5
Answers Index
Call it a day Q1
I take my hat off to all those people who worked hard to get the contract. (a) respect
Q2
(b) encourage
(b) it was early in the morning (d) it was late in the day
I'm sure sometimes you all wanted to call it a day and go home. (a) stop work
Q4
(b) start work
(b) wouldn't give up
(b) be careful
(b) give into
(d) wouldn't fire
(c) be brave
(d) be cheerful
(c) give over
(d) give out
We can best describe someone like that as a person who is weak-kneed. (a) having no resolution (c) having no ideas
Q9
(c) wouldn't shoot
There are of course those who very easily throw in the towel. (a) give up
Q8
(b) wanted to swallow (d) wanted to digest
There are times in life when it's very important to keep your chin up. (a) be smart
Q7
(d) do it later
I'm also very proud of the way you stuck to your guns. (a) wouldn't go away
Q6
(c) continue working
The important thing is that as soon as you saw the advantages, you got your teeth stuck into it. (a) started to eat (c) got very interested in
Q5
(d) welcome
Some of you worked on until the small hours to make it a successful project. (a) it was dark outside (c) it was late in the evening
Q3
(c) congratulate
(b) having no support (d) having no legs
It only remains for me to express my admiration for all those of you who stayed at your posts. (a) waited for your letters (c) remained loyal
(b) kept your letters (d) stayed waiting
Q10 I must not forget either all those very important people, without whom none of us could operate, who work behind the scenes. (a) in the dark
44
(b) at the back
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) in the evenings
(d) in the background
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40.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 6
Answers Index
Live up to Q1
Frank was an old soldier and lived through many wars. (a) seen
Q2
(b) tasted
(c) enjoyed
He had joined the army as a young man because he wanted to live it up a bit. (a) see the world (c) have a good time
Q3
(b) find
(c) follow
(b) exist easily on
(b) digested
(b) stayed in barracks
(c) just get by on
(d) take care of
(c) consumed
(d) just managed
(c) stayed indoors
(d) stayed behind
He never really enjoyed living out. (a) staying in other accommodation (c) staying alone
Q9
(d) name
For some years he lived in because he liked to be among his comrades. (a) stayed in bed
Q8
(d) went beyond
He lived on the simple food provided by the army. (a) ate only
Q7
(c) went near
He also managed to live off his pay without any problems. (a) put up with
Q6
(b) came near to
He certainly travelled and there was plenty of excitement, which made it possible for him to live out his dream. (a) show
Q5
(b) experience the discipline (d) learn new skills
He wanted excitement and travel and the army lived up to its reputation. (a) came up to
Q4
(d) experienced
(b) staying away from home (d) waiting outside
He never did anything wrong and so he didn't have to live down any bad reputation. (a) make others remember (c) make others recall
(b) make others forget (d) make others listen
Q10 He lived out his final days in a small cottage overlooking the barracks. (a) numbered
45
(b) endured
(c) counted
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(d) ended
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41.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 7
Answers Index
English Grammar Prepositions Q1
What are you up to? (a) trying now
Q2
(b) proud of
(c) familiar with
(d) interested in
(b) having an extra day
(c) having a long day
(d) having a short day
(c) kept told about
(d) kept written to
Are you in on the latest developments? (a) kept informed about
Q5
(d) starting now
I'm off on Monday. (a) having a holiday
Q4
(c) achieving now
What are you into? (a) capable of
Q3
(b) doing now
(b) kept attached to
You're on next. (a) It's your opportunity (c) It's your time
Q6
Are you in on Tuesdays? (a) at home
Q7
(b) in touch
(c) in the house
(d) in the area
(b) ready to take
(c) wanting a chance
(d) keen to go
I'm certainly up for it. (a) willing to try
Q8
(b) It's your moment (d) It's your turn
You should know that I'm all for it. (a) completely taken with (c) in complete agreement with
Q9
(b) wholly interested in (d) in complete satisfaction with
I'm through with that company. (a) completed with
(b) finished with
(c) tired of
(d) sick of
(b) looking for
(c) aiming for
(d) trying for
Q10 I'm after a new car. (a) searching for
46
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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42.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 8
Answers Index
From Shakespeare originally Q1
When he heard that he had lost his job, it was cold comfort to learn that he could keep his car. (a) a lot of help
Q2
(c) easy
(b) into trouble
(b) stopped trying
(b) under a dream
(c) stopped flying
(d) stopped turning
(c) under a cloud
(d) under a delusion
(b) no real reason (d) no special reason
(b) a huge change
(c) a fine change
(d) a small change
They looked everywhere for the lost passport but it seems to have vanished into thin air. (a) disappeared slowly (c) disappeared completely
Q9
(d) into problems
There is clearly a sea change in the way people now look at crime today. (a) a little change
Q8
(c) into difficulties
It was a total mystery as apparently there was neither rhyme nor reason why he did it. (a) no logical reason (c) no particular reason
Q7
(d) casual
You're living in a fool's paradise if you think they're going to pay you for nothing. (a) under an illusion
Q6
(b) happy
I'm afraid that my poor old car has finally breathed its last. (a) stopped working
Q5
(d) little help
She had got herself in a pickle by trying to please everyone at the same time. (a) into confusion
Q4
(c) a little help
The selection of candidates was done in a hit or miss manner so that nobody knew why they were chosen. (a) friendly
Q3
(b) some help
(b) disappeared gradually (d) disappeared quickly
When it comes to a crisis, Charles is a tower of strength. (a) very tall
(b) very reliable
(c) very strong
(d) very trusting
Q10 Whenever he has been treated badly, he always demands his pound of flesh. (a) total recompense
47
(b) total satisfaction
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) total agreement
(d) total acceptance
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43.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 9
Answers Index
Water Expressions Q1
Charlie's in hot water again, he forgot to lock up last night. (a) in the bath
Q2
(b) best learnt
(b) a stupid situation (d) a strange situation
He is like a fish out of water whenever he goes to a party. (b) feels dry
(b) very often
(c) very freely
(d) very carefully
(b) take quick decisions (d) take firm action
My original plan has been so watered down that I don't recognize it now. (a) reduced in importance (c) made more fluid
Q9
(d) feels silly
We think in the present circumstances the best policy is to tread water for a while. (a) take sudden steps (c) take little action
Q8
(c) feels thirsty
Don't ever lend him money, he spends it like water. (a) very slowly
Q7
(d) best remembered
You must realize the gravity of the situation because you are in deep water now.
(a) feels uncomfortable Q6
(c) best understood
(b) discourages it completely (d) drowns it completely
(a) an embarrassing situation (c) a serious situation Q5
(d) in trouble
That's always the trouble if she doesn't like it, she simply throws cold water on it. (a) washes it completely (c) cleans it completely
Q4
(c) in the shower
Forget it, that's water under the bridge now. (a) best forgotten
Q3
(b) very wet
(b) increased in size (d) made much clearer
Your ideas are usually sound but this one won't hold water, I'm afraid. (a) float
(b) be practical
(c) stay up
(d) sink
Q10 He'll be all right soon because any criticism is usually like water off a duck's back to him. (a) of no importance
48
(b) of some importance
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) of great importance
(d) of such importance
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44.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 10
Answers Index
Cats, Dogs and Ducks Q1
You will be in a very difficult situation now that he's let the cat out of the bag. (a) told a story
Q2
(b) let the animal go
(d) told a lie
If I were you, I would not raise the subject again and my best advice is to let sleeping dogs lie. (a) leave the dogs alone (c) not say any more
Q3
(c) revealed the truth
(b) not touch the dogs (d) keep away from the dogs
Remember if you go into that meeting without being prepared with some answers, you will simply be a sitting duck. (a) a bird with no wings (c) a steady aim
Q4
(b) a ready target (d) a sick animal
I'm afraid he didn't take my advice and they made him look a complete fool because he was unrepared and he ended up a dead duck. (a) a person with no feelings (c) a person with no future
Q5
(b) a person with no problems (d) a person with no ideas
Mind you as I have said many times before I don't know how he's lasted so long in the job because he's always been the lame duck in the team. (a) the lazy person (c) the slow person
Q6
(b) the inefficient person (d) the wrong person
The older generation always maintains that in their day things were better and nowadays the country is going to the dogs. (a) is having a good time (c) is losing its standards
Q7
(b) is becoming lazy (d) is becoming weaker
If you're unsure about which way the cat is going to jump, I suggest you hang on for a bit longer. (a) how much it will cost (c) how you can succeed
Q8
There is no need to apologize about your remarks as I can assure you it's like water off a duck's back to me. (a) of some concern
Q9
(b) when your turn comes (d) what will happen next
(b) of a little concern
(c) of little concern
(d) of less concern
Once more he is in the doghouse but I couldn't possibly tell you why. (a) out of the way
(b) out of favour
(c) out of order
(d) out of trouble
Q10 As so many people are coming to a party at their house, they're running around preparing food like scalded cats. (a) in a nervous state (c) in a hurried state
49
(b) in a delighted state (d) in a hilarious state
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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45.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 11
Answers Index
Losing It Q1
The one thing a public figure hates is when he loses face in front of all his admirers. (a) loses good looks
Q2
(b) became concerned
(d) loses expressions
(c) became scared
(d) became upset
The latest opinion polls show that the government is losing ground to the opposition party. (a) losing its time (c) losing its votes
Q4
(c) loses respect
At the crucial moment the climber lost her nerve and had to be brought down the mountain. (a) became excited
Q3
(b) loses photos
(b) losing its opinion (d) losing its advantage
There was a time when everybody would believe her totally but after this episode I'm afraid she's losing her touch. (a) losing her skill
Q5
(c) at a problem
(d) at a difficulty
(b) without reason
(c) without sense
(d) without impression
(b) losing her purpose
(c) losing her control
(d) losing her feelings
He suddenly started shouting and screaming and people could plainly see that he had lost his cool. (a) become angry
Q9
(b) at a disadvantage
After only a few weeks as a teacher of very badly behaved children she realized she was losing her grip. (a) losing her point
Q8
(d) losing her friends
I'm afraid that kind of humour is totally lost on him so you'll have to explain it more simply. (a) without effect
Q7
(c) losing her contact
Under the new pay agreement many employees feel that they are losing out on allowances. (a) at a deficit
Q6
(b) losing her mind
(b) become rude
(c) become stupid
(d) become loud
I've tried very hard indeed to understand your argument step by step but I must confess I've now lost the thread. (a) I now can't follow the answer (c) I now can't follow the reason
(b) I now can't follow the point (d) I now can't follow the reasoning
Q10 After the traffic accident she lost her head and drove the car into a brick wall. (a) behaved strangely
50
(b) behaved foolishly
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) behaved oddly
(d) behaved quietly
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46.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 12
Answers Index
Splitting Hairs Q1
We told him to keep his hair on because he was getting angrier and angrier. (a) to stand still
Q2
(b) terrifies me
(b) behave noisily
(b) disappointed me
(c) terrified me
(d) surprised me
(b) arguing about tenses (d) arguing about grammatical points
I saw him last November and since then I have seen neither hide nor hair of him. (b) seen him once or twice (d) not seen much of him
Don't worry if she doesn't say much because she says she's having a bad hair day. (a) she's experiencing a lot of problems (c) she's doing too much
Q9
(d) behave fully
Quite frankly you're splitting hairs. Does it matter whether it's the past simple or the perfect tense?
(a) seen little of him (c) not seen him at all Q8
(c) behave easily
(b) showing no feeling at all (d) showing a lot of feeling
(a) arguing about small points (c) aruing about grammar Q7
(d) irritates me
After the boss had given her the sack, she just walked out of the office without turning a hair. (a) showing some feeling (c) showing a little feeling
Q6
(c) criticizes me
When I opened the door and saw this white figure in front of me, it really made my hair stand on end. (a) upset me
Q5
(d) to sit down
Now that he's passed his exams and got his qualifications he's decided to let his hair down. (a) behave informally
Q4
(c) to speak quietly
I can't really explain it but the moment she walks into the room and asks me a question she gets in my hair. (a) pulls my hair
Q3
(b) to remain calm
(b) she's discovering horrible things (d) she's been eating too much
I was really scared when I saw him because he was tearing his hair out about the new management decision. (a) extremely excited
(b) extremely worried
(c) extremely angry
(d) extremely depressed
Q10 They were very lucky they didn't get themselves killed because they came within a hair's breadth of falling down the mountain. (a) very near to
51
(b) very nearer to
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) very nearly to
(d) very next to
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47.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 13
Answers Index
Squeaky Clean Q1
The auditors made a thorough check on all aspects of the company and decided to give it a clean bill of health. (a) confirm it was satisfactory (c) believe it was clean
Q2
(b) decide it was hygienic (d) agree it was organized
Now that all the problems have been sorted out he is able to go back to work with a clean slate. (a) making no more mess (c) making a fresh start
Q3
After a great deal of questioning he decided to come clean and tell the truth. (a) agree
Q4
(b) decide
(c) admit
(d) confess
The enquiry into allegations of fraud against the minister proved in the end that her hands were clean. (a) she was willing
Q5
(b) making things clean (d) making things up
(b) she was busy
(c) she was innocent
(d) she was careful
With the appointment of a new director it was decided to make a clean sweep and create a new board of governors. (a) remove all obstacles (c) remove all symbols
Q6
Some of the members of the board are under some suspicion but he is regarded as Mr Clean. (a) well mannered
Q7
(b) remove all chairs (d) remove all problems
(b) trustworthy
(c) punctual
(d) tidy
I was taken to the cleaners well and truly last week: I saw the same computer for sale today at half the price I paid. (a) lost some money
Q8
(c) lost too much money
(d) lost more money
We tried to catch the thief who'd snatched the handbag but he showed us a clean pair of heels. (a) lost his shoes
Q9
(b) lost a lot of money
(b) fell over his shoes
(c) ran away quickly
(d) picked up his shoes
At the end of a lengthy police investigation he emerged as squeaky clean. (a) totally clean
(b) totally free
(c) totally tired
(d) totally innocent
Q10 After several hours of cleaning the children had made the kitchen clean as a whistle before their parents came home. (a) spotless
52
(b) pure
(c) tidy
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(d) neat
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48.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 14
Answers Index
Word of Mouth Q1
I give you my word it will never happen again. (a) say
Q2
(b) speak
(c) promise
She had to eat her words when it turned out that she had chosen the wrong horse in the race. (a) admit she was hungry (c) admit she was sorry
Q3
(c) quarrelled
(b) do what they say
(b) gossip
(d) sayings
(b) listens eagerly to everything she says (d) listens quietly to everything she says
From the word go we could tell at the interview she was the ideal candidate for the job. (b) Suddenly
(c) Straightaway
(d) Clearly
Remember as soon as you feel able to continue with walk, say the word. (a) let me know
Q9
(d) do what they want
You can see that he's deeply in love with her because he hangs on her every word.
(a) Quickly Q8
(c) say what they do
(c) hearsay
(a) listens silently to everything she says (c) listens quickly to everything she says Q7
(d) screamed
They spend very little on advertising and tend to get new work through word of mouth. (a) recommendation
Q6
(b) shouted
You can always rely on that company because they keep their word whatever happens. (a) do what they like
Q5
(b) admit she was thirsty (d) admit she was wrong
They had words last night so be prepared for miserable faces this morning. (a) fought
Q4
(d) agree
(b) let me hear
(c) let me go
(d) let me tell
I can only repeat that I want you to wait until Tuesday before you tell her, remember mum's the word. (a) don't tell mum (c) don't say anything
(b) don't speak aloud (d) don't answer anything
Q10 I couldn't agree with you more, to be honest you've taken the words out of my mouth. (a) said what I wanted to hear (c) said what I wanted to know
53
(b) said what I wanted to say (d) said what I wanted to learn
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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49.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 15
Answers Index
Expressions and idioms with thin Q1
He worries too much about his appearance and now he says he's going thin on top. (a) going crazy
Q2
(b) going mad
(b) very tired
(b) difficult to find
(c) difficult to know
(d) difficult to pay
(b) start of something easy (d) start of something difficult
Since we put that advertisement in the local newspapers, replies have been coming in thick and fast. (a) quickly in large numbers (c) quickly in small numbers
Q7
(d) very light
Although he only asked me to lend him EUR 5, I could see this was the thin end of the wedge. (a) start of something financial (c) start of something worse
Q6
(c) very sleepy
If you know of a good plumber, let me know as they're a bit thin on the ground around here. (a) difficult to see
Q5
(b) finding it difficult without help (d) finding it difficult without money
He really must start eating properly because at the moment he's as thin as a rake. (a) very thin
Q4
(d) going deaf
She lost her job last year and since then she's been having a thin time of it. (a) finding it difficult without friends (c) finding it difficult without support
Q3
(c) going bald
(b) slowly in small numbers (d) slowly in large numbers
You'll be lucky if you get more than two words out of him because I'm afraid he's as thick as two short planks. (a) very quiet
Q8
(c) very wooden
(d) very stupid
They've settled their argument at long last and now they're as thick as thieves. (a) very clever
Q9
(b) very slow
(b) very friendly
(c) very careful
(d) very cautious
In view of the way she behaved I thought it was a bit thick when she asked him to apologize to her. (a) more than I could wish (c) more than I could stand
(b) more than I could believe (d) more than I could follow
Q10 There are certain members in the party who will stand by their leader through thick and thin. (a) whatever the times (c) whatever the day
54
(b) whatever the climate (d) whatever the difficulties
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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50.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 16
Answers Index
Expressions with Top Q1
He's always worried about his appearance and now he's concerned because he's going thin on top. (a) losing his hair (c) losing his popularity
Q2
(b) losing his memory (d) losing his strength
When the accident happened, all he could think about was attracting attention and he started calling out at the top of his voice. (a) as quickly as possible (c) as clearly as possible
Q3
(b) as freely as possible (d) as loudly as possible
Off the top of my head I would say it's going to cost more than twice what you have budgeted for. (a) At a careful calculation (c) At a near calculation
Q4
(b) At a simple calculation (d) At a rough calculation
It's certainly not difficult to see who's top dog around here theses days. (a) the most arrogant person (c) the most important person
Q5
Since she won the lottery last week she's been feeling on top of the world. (a) very proud
Q6
(d) very wealthy
(b) irritate
(c) antagonize
(d) magnify
(b) very slowly
(c) very often
(d) very soundly
Students usually take on paid employment during the vacation to top up their grants. (a) stay with
Q9
(c) very excited
For the first time in ages I actually slept like a top last night. (a) very quickly
Q8
(b) very happy
Many politicians like to impress the votes but a few of them go over the top sometimes in their speeches. (a) exaggerate
Q7
(b) the most popular person (d) the most unusual person
(b) keep to
(c) add to
(d) get to
Her mother was very snobbish and didn't like the idea of her daughter marrying someone who was not out of the top drawer. (a) of great wealth (c) of considerable education
(b) of high social standing (d) of great intellectual ability
Q10 It had been a terrible day for him and when he learned finally that he had lost his job, he simply blew his top. (a) lost his temper
55
(b) lost his nerve
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) lost his courage
(d) lost his respect
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51.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 17
Answers Index
Down to Earth Q1
Poor Charlie has been down in the dumps since he learned that he's lost his job. (a) miserable
Q2
(b) angry
(c) furious
I think we've had our fun and now it's time we got down to the idea of earning some money. (a) began slowly to consider (c) began seriously to consider
Q3
(d) uneasy
(b) began easily to consider (d) began frankly to consider
As soon as they heard the news that one of their fellow workers had been given the sack, they all downed tools. (a) went home
Q4
(b) stopped working
(b) boring
(c) clever
(d) practical
He's certainly picked himself up since we last saw him when he was clearly down-at-heel. (a) loudly dressed
Q7
(b) speaks quickly (d) speaks continuously
In contrast to her husband she's a very down-to-earth sort of person who manages to control his wild ideas. (a) cynical
Q6
(d) worked slowly
She always talks down to me as if I'm not worth consideration. (a) speaks softly (c) speaks condescendingly
Q5
(c) stopped talking
(b) shabbily dressed
(c) strangely dressed
(d) oddly dressed
I invested all my money in that failed company and now I find my whole investment has gone down the drain. (a) has been overtaken
Q8
(c) has been wasted
(d) has been confused
You can use special symbols in your emails if you want to show you're down in the mouth. (a) decided
Q9
(b) has been confirmed
(b) definite
(c) deflated
(d) depressed
Let's put it like this — you made the decision and so it's down to you as to what happens next. (a) your responsibility
(b) your concern
(c) your turn
(d) your thought
Q10 They've had enough of the bad climate and high taxes here and have gone to live down under. (a) in America
56
(b) in China
(c) in Australia
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(d) in India
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52.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 18
Answers Index
Expressions with low Q1
If you like, I can give you a summary and the low-down when we next meet. (a) information
Q2
(b) tiny letters
(b) serious
(d) few letters
(d) unwell
On account of his unpopularity the politician decided to lie low for a few weeks. (b) keep away from the public (d) keep out of the show
In the 19th century in big houses the people who lived below stairs were the servants. (a) under the floor
Q6
(c) small letters
(c) unhappy
(a) keep out of the shops (c) keep out of the rain Q5
(d) account
She's usually very fit and healthy and that's why we were surprised to learn she was laid low. (a) tired
Q4
(c) numbers
It's the fashion now to write the first letter of your name not in capitals but in lower case. (a) tidy letters
Q3
(b) history
(b) at the bottom
(c) in the basement
(d) under the stairs
From the critical comments the journalist was making, it was clear he had a low opinion of the country's leader. (a) didn't talk much about (c) didn't hear much from
Q7
(b) didn't see much of (d) didn't think much of
We knew that he was dishonest but we didn't imagine he would sink so low as to steal from his own family. (a) behave so disgracefully (c) behave so clearly
Q8
We wanted to cheer you up as we'd heard you were feeling a bit low. (a) rather angry
Q9
(b) behave so stupidly (d) behave so fully
(b) rather depressed
(c) rather uneasy
(d) rather strange
I recommend you take out your loan now to take advantage of the low interest rate. (a) reduced
(b) quick
(c) special
(d) fixed
Q10 If you invest in the financial markets you must expect the lows as well as the highs in the income. (a) benefits
57
(b) stages
(c) decreases
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(d) changes
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53.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 19
Answers Index
Hot expressions Q1
They just sit around, discuss nothing in particular and just produce a lot of hot air. (a) dry heat
Q2
(b) not cold
(c) smells good
(b) delicate situation
(b) sunny zone
(b) in security
(c) grand situation
(d) big situation
(c) foreign zone
(d) war zone
(c) in trouble
(d) in force
(b) selling very often (d) selling very well
In order to provide training for the staff in the department everyone had to do a turn in the hot seat. (a) experience responsibility (c) experience hard work
Q9
(d) just printed
Have you seen that long queue outside the supermarket? Whatever they're selling is going like hot cakes. (a) selling very slowly (c) selling very strangely
Q8
(d) by taxi
He'd only been in his new job three days when he found himself in hot water for something he'd done wrong. (a) in danger
Q7
(c) in a sports car
Whenever there was a hot spot that needed covering, the paper always sent their most experienced reporter. (a) warm zone
Q6
(b) on horseback
I'm not quite sure how to handle the problem at the moment as it's not easy to explain a sort of hot potato. (a) strange situation
Q5
(d) simple facts
He can never wait for the next issue of his favourite magazine and likes to get a copy that's hot off the press. (a) nice and clean
Q4
(c) empty talk
As soon as they heard the news, they didn't hesitate and drove hotfoot to the hospital. (a) very quickly
Q3
(b) funny remarks
(b) experience pleasure (d) experience boredom
I thought he was going to burst with anger because he was getting very hot under the collar. (a) very silly
(b) very happy
(c) very angry
(d) very loud
Q10 The one thing you mustn't do is be late because the boss is very hot on punctuality. (a) strict about
58
(b) funny about
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) worried about
(d) good about
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54.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 20
Answers Index
Comparisons with as .... as Q1
After a good night's sleep she woke feeling as fresh as a daisy. (a) quiet and still
Q2
(d) sure and confident
(b) in easy health
(c) in quiet health
(d) in good health
When she left school, she found she could do what she liked and be as free as air. (a) totally free
Q4
(c) nice and clean
It was a serious operation but he made a complete recovery and was soon as fit as a fiddle. (a) in careful health
Q3
(b) bright and cheerful
(b) quite free
(c) almost free
(d) somewhat free
Suddenly the car leant to one side and when he got out, he saw there was no air in one tyre that was as flat as a pancake. (a) a little flat
Q5
(c) slightly flat
(d) practically flat
The baby sitter had no problem with the children because they were as good as gold the whole evening. (a) very quiet
Q6
(b) completely flat
(b) well spoken
(c) well behaved
(d) very clean
He wanted to make sure that his car looked good and so he made sure it was as clean as a whistle before he sold it. (a) spotty
Q7
(b) spotted
(c) spotting
(d) spotless
The one thing you could be sure of was that he would not behave in a normal way he was in fact as daft as a brush. (a) completely swept
Q8
(c) completely brushed
(d) completely strange
We really didn't expect to see him at all that night but then suddenly he appeared as large as life. (a) looking big
Q9
(b) completely mad
(b) looking fat
(c) in person
(d) in fact
You could always rely on her because in any situation she stayed as steady as a rock. (a) totally dependable
(b) totally still
(c) totally motionless
(d) totally stiff
Q10 As he was as strong as a horse, he was able to lift the carriage up and let the trapped man out. (a) very agile
59
(b) very strong
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) very short
(d) very small
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55.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 21
Answers Index
Expressions with make Q1
Their big ambition in life was to choose the right moment to sell their shares ad then make a killing. (a) take it easy
Q2
(b) make plans
(b) not really proceeding (d) not really professing
The shock was so great it made your hair stand up on end. (a) consoled you
Q4
(b) controlled you
(b) energizing
(b) contribute
(d) entertaining
(c) convene
(d) survive
(b) come straight to the end (d) come straight to the angle
It seems a sound project with potential and so I advise you to make a pitch for it. (a) make a suggestion for it (c) make an offer for it
Q9
(c) exaggerating
I'll make no bones about it and tell you exactly what I think. (a) come straight to the point (c) come straight to the road
Q8
(b) provided them with a huge sum of money (d) provided them with a huge tin of money
We've lost a lot of money and have little income and so we're finding it difficult to make ends meet. (a) examine
Q7
(d) frightened you
Ignore his comments it's not really that bad, he's simply making a mountain out of a molehill. (a) exercising
Q6
(c) freed you
I reckon when they sold that lovely big house it must have made them a mint. (a) provided them with a huge bucket of money (c) provided them with a huge box of money
Q5
(d) make schemes
They've tried hard to increase their profits in the business but so far are making little headway. (a) not really progressing (c) not really processing
Q3
(c) make a lot of money
(b) make an idea for it (d) make a throw for it
If I were you, I would stop worrying about it and simply make hay while you can. (a) have humour
(b) have fun
(c) have comic
(d) have sense
Q10 Don't take too much notice of what he's saying, he's just making waves. (a) making a fuss
60
(b) making a noise
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) making a sound
(d) making a story
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56.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 22
Answers Index
Egg expressions Q1
I'm pretty certain but perhaps I wouldn't go as far as saying I'm as sure as eggs is eggs. (a) fairly sure
Q2
(b) did enable him
(b) worthless person
(b) looking serious
(c) difficult person
(d) stupid person
(c) looking dirty
(d) looking old
(b) to overload your basket (d) to carry too many things
She wasn't really successful in her first stage play. In fact you could say she laid an egg. (a) she made a good impression (c) she fell over on stage
Q7
(d) did send him
You've got to learn to diversify and not put all your eggs in one basket. (a) to have lots of ideas (c) to rely on just one scheme
Q6
(c) did encourage him
First he agreed and then he disagreed. The result was he ended up with egg on his face. (a) looking foolish
Q5
(d) absolutely sure
You've always stood by him in all his bad habits but underneath I think he's a bad egg. (a) smelly person
Q4
(c) reasonably sure
I know you didn't exactly push him into accepting the offer but you must admit you did egg him on. (a) did force him
Q3
(b) quite sure
(b) she forgot her lines (d) she gave an embarrassing performance
It was a bit like teaching his grandmother to suck eggs when the young director was showing the veteran actress how to act. (a) teaching someone who was more experienced than he (c) teaching someone who was more stupid than he
Q8
They told her to put some money aside each month so she would have a little nest egg. (a) a special account
Q9
(b) teaching someone who was younger than he (d) teaching someone who was more willing than he
(b) a savings account
(c) a full account
(d) a money account
We all advised him to make sure he got payment and didn't take eggs for money. (a) accept just a note for money (c) accept just a promise of money
(b) accept just a business card for money (d) just a handshake for money
Q10 You'll need all your tact in this situation and you'll have to tread on eggs. (a) be very quiet
61
(b) be very sensitive
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) be very sleepy
(d) be very athletic
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57.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 23
Answers Index
Idioms with prepositions Q1
It's a far cry from those days long ago when you could leave your front door unlocked. (a) a long shout away
Q2
(b) a long time since
(b) let me listen to you (d) let me finish speaking
There's no saying you couldn't pass your exam if you really tried. (a) There's a possibility (c) It's not impossible
Q4
(b) sometimes
(b) almost impossible
(d) very hurtful
(b) He seriously ponders (d) He seriously believes
(b) failure
(c) lot of rain
(d) complaint
I know you're keen but I don't want you to jump the gun. Just relax. (a) fire the bullet
Q9
(c) almost damaging
We thought it would all go off very well but in the end it turned out to be a damp squib. (a) wet thing
Q8
(d) frequently
He's got it into his head that we think he's stupid but we really don't. (a) He seriously contemplates (c) He seriously wonders
Q7
(c) occasionally
It's like hitting your head against a brick wall trying to get him to see sense because he takes no notice. (a) very painful
Q6
(b) It's not possible (d) It's impossible
We haven't seen him for ages but he turns up once in a blue moon. (a) very rarely
Q5
(d) a long time before
I wish you would stop talking and hear me out. (a) let me go across (c) let me carry on listening
Q3
(c) a long way before
(b) shoot the target
(c) start too soon
(d) shoot too soon
Count to ten before you say anything and don't blow your top. (a) eat too quickly
(b) speak too quickly
(c) lose your way
(d) lose your temper
Q10 It's like talking to a brick wall because you never get an answer from her. (a) there's nobody there (c) there's a lot there
62
(b) there's something there (d) there's anything there
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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58.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 24
Answers Index
Idioms with phrasal verbs Q1
You certainly couldn't call him modest because he's always blowing his own trumpet. (a) saying how fit he is (c) saying how clever he is
Q2
(b) saying how healthy he is (d) saying how tall he is
You can always rely on him to throw a spanner in the works and suddenly everything stops. (a) make things go wrong (c) make things go quickly
Q3
He tried and tried and tried but in the end he decided the time had come to throw in the towel. (a) stop running
Q4
(b) make an effort
(c) make a start
(d) make a try
(b) cease
(c) stop
(d) end
(b) really rough
(c) really crude
(d) really strong
To be honest he leads a dog's life because he works all the time and has no friends. (a) a lazy life
Q8
(d) stop trying
I just can't open this tin at all and I always find this type of container a pain in the neck. (a) really annoying
Q7
(c) stop laughing
We've had a lovely time and walked a long way but I think it's time to call it a day. (a) halt
Q6
(b) stop looking
My advice is to stop worrying about it and put your best foot forward. (a) make a step
Q5
(b) make things go slowly (d) make things go right
(b) a miserable life
(c) an eager life
(d) a long life
The one thing you can be sure of is that whatever the situation she'll put her foot in it and embarrass everyone. (a) commit a fast blunder (c) commit a social blunder
Q9
(b) commit an easy blunder (d) commit a sociable blunder
That sort of joke never makes people laugh and on this occasion it went down like a lead balloon. (a) very quickly
(b) very soundly
(c) very noisily
(d) very badly
Q10 Before the meeting officially starts I'd like to flag up one or two points. (a) finish
63
(b) mention
(c) tell
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(d) say
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59.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 25
Answers Index
Mark Idioms Q1
He's not really doing anything serious at the moment because he's just marking time until he finds a proper job. (a) waiting for the right start (c) waiting for the right opportunity
Q2
(b) waiting for the easy life (d) waiting for the easy start
You mark my words you do as I say and you'll be all right. (a) attend me carefully (c) understand me carefully
Q3
The dancers were marked down in the competition because the man fell over half way through. (a) lost marks
Q4
(b) listen to me carefully (d) follow me carefully
(b) failed marks
(b) be remembered
(b) fostered
(c) treated
(d) destined
(b) of a reasonable standard (d) of a hard standard
Take no notice of what he said because his comments are beside the mark. (a) irrelevant
Q9
(d) be told
They were very fussy about their products and any item not up to the mark was discarded. (a) of a fair standard (c) of a high standard
Q8
(c) be noted
From an early age he was marked out to become leader of his party. (a) created
Q7
(b) aware in the queue (d) be along in the queue
When you look back over her lifetime you can see that she will have made her mark. (a) be seen
Q6
(d) caught marks
There wasn't much time to waste and in order to secure a place, you had to be quick off the mark. (a) ready in the queue (c) be first in the queue
Q5
(c) took marks
(b) disregarding
(c) distasteful
(d) disturbing
As they were very slow off the mark, they missed some of the good bargains. (a) not sure on time
(b) not clear on time
(c) not fine on time
(d) not ready on time
Q10 Pay attention. The race is about to begin. On your marks, get ready, start. (a) Try prepared
64
(b) Act prepared
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) Be prepared
(d) Go prepared
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60.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 26
Answers Index
Retail Sales Expressions Q1
I went to BuyLots and bought a computer on hire purchase. (a) payment in cash
Q2
(b) discount payment
(c) payment plan
(d) price increase
The best time to go shopping in the USA is the day after Thanksgiving, because all stores mark down their prices. (a) reduce
Q3
(b) give away
(b) proof of purchase
(d) ship
(c) profit
(d) coupon
(b) dollar bills (d) debit card
Thanks for buying at Build-a-Monster, your product will be shipped in 1 to 2 business days. Have a nice day! (a) received
Q7
(c) buy
When I first moved to the USA and didn't have a bank account, I used money orders to pay my rent. (a) order of payment issued by a bank (c) personal check
Q6
(d) hike
It's really important to keep a receipt of the products you buy in case you need to return or exchange them. (a) record
Q5
(c) raise
Nowadays, lots of people purchase products over the Internet. (a) sell
Q4
(b) boost
(b) withdrawn
(c) purchased
(d) mailed
My son would love to have a Buzz Lightmonth toy for his birthday. Do you have any at your store? — Sorry, ma'am. They are out of stock. (a) bankrupt
Q8
(b) broken
(c) not available
(d) stacked
Excuse me, sir. I would like my money back on these shoes, please. They don't fit me. — Sorry, ma'am. We can't do that. (a) a forfeit
Q9
(b) a reimburse
(c) a fine
(d) a retain
(c) vintage
(d) release
(c) inexpensive
(d) overpriced
Melinda bought a Plasma TV with a one year warranty. (a) guarantee
(b) invalidation
Q10 Mr. Thompson only buys things that are in a sale. (a) uneconomical
65
(b) priceless
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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61.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 27
Answers Index
American Slang Words (1) Q1
I feel really good about this class. I'm going to ace the exam tomorrow. (a) fail
Q2
(b) happy
(b) ripped all of his money
(b) go to the fuse box
(b) went to sleep
(c) lose her temper
(c) got up early
The class went bonkers as soon as the teacher left the room. (a) acted in a wild, crazy manner (c) went to work
Q9
(c) saved all of his money
The college students went out to a club last night and got bombed because the school year ended. (a) got drunk
Q8
(c) big meal
Kathy was ready to blow a fuse when she found out someone stole her patent idea. (a) blow out a candle
Q7
(b) big fuss
Richard received a large inheritance last year but he blew all of his money on silly things and now he's broke. (a) spent all of his money
Q6
(b) big appetite
Our manager made a big stink about the slight decrease in sales last month. (a) large party
Q5
(c) physically unhealthy
Johnny has a really big mouth. You can't tell him anything or the whole world will know about it. (a) talkative nature and doesn't keep secrets well (c) large smile
Q4
(c) play cards during
His mom was really bent out of shape because he got home late last night. (a) angry
Q3
(b) do well or excel in
(b) went to sleep
Christie fell down and got a boo-boo on her arm so she cried until her mother picked her up. (a) milk bottle
(b) bruise
(c) large, deep cut
Q10 If Randy doesn't get with it, he'll fail the entire school year. (a) become aware of his situation (c) anger his professors
66
(b) get together with his friends soon
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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62.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 28
Answers Index
American Slang Words (2) Q1
Lauren moved to Los Angeles to become an actress. Now, she's working as a waitress and waiting for a lucky break. (a) a broken limb (c) a great opportunity to further her career
Q2
I don't have any money on me. Can I borrow a buck? (a) female deer
Q3
(b) male duck
(c) dollar
Rowan is really depressed about the break-up. She always looks so bummed. (a) sad and apathetic
Q4
(b) an inheritance settlement
(b) happy
(c) furious
Jeff really wanted to play at the basketball game last night but his coach benched him for bad behavior this past week. (a) forced him to clean the benches (c) forced him to be a cheerleader
Q5
I can't wait for our vacation next month. I'm going to sit on the beach to catch some rays. (a) go for a swim
Q6
(b) get some money
(c) get some sleep
(b) showy
(c) depressed
We went to the Grand Buffet this past weekend. They have really good food and I can't wait to chow down. (a) eat a lot
Q9
(c) get a suntan
He'll never go for that. It's too expensive and he's so chintzy. (a) stingy
Q8
(b) get a drink
I'm so tired. I'm going home to catch some z's. I'll call you tomorrow. (a) get a suntan
Q7
(b) forced him to sit and watch the game
(b) spend a lot
(c) drive fast
Don't let him con you. He's only using you because he wants you to give him some money. (a) swindle or manipulate
(b) teach
(c) humor
Q10 Dean has turned into such a coach potato. He sits in front of the TV all night long. (a) a lazy person
67
(b) an active person
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) a funny person
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63.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 29
Answers Index
American Slang Words (3) Q1
Why don't you crackthat bottle of wine so we can start celebrating your promotion. (a) smash that bottle
Q2
(b) open that bottle
Sally had poor study habits so she had to cram for her chemistry exam. (a) cheat (c) study in a relaxed fashion
Q3
(b) difficult and stressful
(b) defeat
(b) cost of damaging the property
I don't want to come to this club ever again. It's always dead. (a) too busy and there's no room to sit down (c) gloomy but exciting
Q7
(b) long trousers or pants
(c) a lot of money
That movie was really dirty. I don't think the kids should watch it. (a) sexually explicit (c) unclean with many untidy scenes
Q9
(b) boring and there aren't many patrons
Don't worry. Her husband will pay for the meal. He has deep pockets. (a) no money
Q8
(c) tie
The food was so good. Now, can you ask for the bill so we can see what the damage is? (a) cost of the meal (c) cost of dessert
Q6
(c) laborious
Notre Dame is going to cream the other team because they're strong and well-organized this year. (a) lose to
Q5
(b) study really hard in a short period of time
Tanya's job is really cushy. She gets a lot of time off and doesn't work very hard at all. (a) good with great benefits
Q4
(c) buy that bottle
(b) violent
Karen ditched her little sister so we could go to the year-end party. (a) got rid of
(b) brought along
(c) got drunk with
Q10 I don't want to hang out with Tom anymore. He's become a real drag. (a) boring and negative person (c) funny person
68
(b) exciting and positive person
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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64.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 30
Answers Index
American Slang Words (4) Q1
Christine got an earful when she got home last night. Her parents lectured her about breaking curfews for more than an hour. (a) an outpour of anger and complaints (c) a talk about ears
Q2
(b) a talk about her ear infection medicine
Normally, drug addicts need a fix in order to cope with their day once they are addicted to a particular drug. (a) dose of something they strongly crave (c) chip
Q3
People say Lana is really flaky so she can't handle important projects at work. (a) unconventional and odd
Q4
(b) responsible
(c) video game
(b) fell down
(c) bent over backwards
Some people say that my teacher is a foxy lady. (a) cunning
Q8
(b) new restaurant
Laura flipped out when she heard about the tornado that hit her hometown. (a) got really upset
Q7
(b) memory of a past incident
My husband and I want to go watch that new flick. We heard it's pretty good. (a) movie/film
Q6
(c) dishonest
When he saw the giant wheel at the fair, he instantly had a flashback reminiscent of his childhood. (a) radio (c) song
Q5
(b) thing that is easily repaired
(b) red-haired
(c) physically attractive
That vacation package to Puerto Vallarta was a freebie when I bought the cruise line vacation package that starts out in Fort Lauderdale. (a) a bonus received without cost/charge (c) a discounted pair of shoes
Q9
(b) an object we throw to each other at the park
The computer system we use at work has a glitch in it so we couldn't do any of our work today. The technician will be in tomorrow to fix it for us. (a) traffic signal
(b) minor malfunction
(c) small rip or tear
Q10 Carmen told me the joke three times but I still didn't get it. She has a very different sense of humor. (a) understood the joke (c) told the joke
69
(b) didn't understand the joke
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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65.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 31
Answers Index
American Slang Words (5) Q1
I got into art and writing when I was a child. (a) was highly interested in
Q2
(b) extravagant and showy
(b) went to a lively game
After the tragic accident, Tyler went to pieces. (b) moved to a rural area
I really goofed up at work this week. Now, I have to work overtime, without pay, to fix it. (a) made a careless and silly mistake (c) made a lot of friends
Q8
(b) made a lot of money
Simon is notorious for goofing off at work. (a) doing a great job (c) being idle and wasting time
Q9
(c) showed active support
(b) made her conceited and overconfident
(a) was emotionally shattered (c) went to see his family Q7
(c) dull and boring
Laura got a big promotion last month and now the whole thing has gone to her head. (a) given her a migraine headache (c) physically made her head larger
Q6
(c) was sensitive
Karrie went to bat for her co-worker last week. Now, her boss wants to fire both of them. (a) went to a great show
Q5
(b) was overly excited
Jim thinks Las Vegas hotels are pretty glitzy. (a) colorful
Q4
(c) stole
Sharon went bananas when she found out that she won a large shopping spree. (a) was depressed
Q3
(b) avoided
(b) working overtime
Tim just spent thirty grand on a new car last week. (a) thousand dollars
(b) dollars
(c) cents
Q10 Our boss told Kevin to use his gourd to solve the problem. (a) use his garden
70
(b) arts and crafts
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) use his brain
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66.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 32
Answers Index
American Slang Words (6) Q1
A lot of students at the high school across the street smoke grass during lunch hour. (a) smoke cigarettes
Q2
(b) smoke marijuana
Cathy is really happy at her new job. It's pure gravy. (a) a really frustrating place (c) lucrative and easy
Q3
(b) expensive
(c) really delicious
Where should we go for some good grub? (a) drinks
Q5
(b) a job with great cafeteria gravy
I don't want that sandwich. It looks gross. (a) disgusting
Q4
(c) smoke cigars
(b) food
(c) insects
You've been very lazy this past semester. Now, you have to really pull your socks up if you want to graduate in June. (a) work hard
Q6
(c) fashionable
(b) courage
(c) stamina
I don't like your jacket. It looks a little grungy. (a) fashionable
Q9
(b) neat and boring
It takes a lot of guts to stand up for what you believe in; especially when your opinion is not a popular one. (a) happiness
Q8
(c) be nice to the teachers
My roommate usually looks pretty grubby when she goes out. (a) unclean and sloppy
Q7
(b) wear nice clothes
(b) dirty
(c) dated
That road was really hairy. We should take another route next time. (a) scenic
(b) boring
(c) dangerous
Q10 We have to sit down and hammer out an agreement before the end of the week. (a) possibly work on
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(b) quickly work out
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) pay for
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67.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 33
Answers Index
American Slang Words (7) Q1
Due to her nervous breakdown last year, Maggie has decided to hang up her nursing career. (a) quit
Q2
(b) continue
Can you hang on please? I have to switch phones. (a) hold this phone in your hands (c) wait a moment
Q3
(b) are rich and snobby
(b) a funny routine
(c) a silly proposal
(b) was fired
(c) was unhealthy
Those kids look high. I think they were smoking pot earlier. (a) intoxicated on drugs or alcohol (c) depressed
Q8
(c) are financially stable
Oh, you don't know. He is history because he was always late for work. (a) was a great teacher
Q7
(c) feeling
Your new project was a hit at the meeting on Friday. (a) a success
Q6
(b) recipe
The neighbors across the street seem like they have it all together. (a) are mentally unstable
Q5
(b) hang up
I like your friend. I got a really good vibe from her. (a) dance routine
Q4
(c) begin
(b) confident
The gang members holed up for nearly three weeks because they are wanted on three counts of armed robbery. (a) dug a hole
Q9
(b) bought extra ammunition
(c) hid
I don't know what to say. You'll have to speak with the head honcho about that. (a) boss
(b) secretary
(c) gangster
Q10 In order to succeed in the stock market, you have to be hungry and business savvy. (a) famished (c) poor
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(b) eager and highly motivated
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 34
Answers Index
American Slang Words (8) Q1
Lisa has a very hyper son and she meets with his teacher a lot. (a) overly active
Q2
(b) overly jealous
You really have to hustle if you want to meet the deadline. (a) work at a steady pace (c) slow down and take your time
Q3
(b) serious
(c) very attractive
(b) angry
(c) funny
(b) band
(c) business
Isaac hung around with the wrong crowd and I'm afraid for him because he's in too deep now. (a) in the deep end of the pool (c) seriously and deeply involved
Q9
(c) business woman
Don really got himself into a jam this time. He needs help. (a) problematic situation
Q8
(b) prostitute
She's a very intense person. I think she needs to relax more. (a) serious
Q7
(c) neutral
She's hot. A lot of guys at school like her. (a) furious
Q6
(b) stylish
She wears too much makeup and very revealing clothing. She looks like a hooker at times. (a) humble person
Q5
(b) work hard and fast
Those colors are really in right now. A lot of people are using those shades in their homes. (a) boring
Q4
(c) overzealous
(b) underground
In the past, people used to jerk me around more. Nowadays, I put my foot down a lot more. (a) physically pull me around (c) shout at me
(b) cause problems for me
Q10 Some of the girls at school like the jocks. (a) athletic guys
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(b) funny guys
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) smart guys
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69.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 35
Answers Index
American Slang Words (9) Q1
I've had to go for an hour. Where's the john? (a) cafeteria
Q2
(b) stay calm
(c) get annoyed with
(b) enjoyable person
(c) clumsy person
This exotic meal is really good so don't knock it until you try it. (b) don't throw it in the garbage
Emma was really skinny as a child but now she's a knockout. (a) comedian
Q9
(c) get a cold drink
(b) don't like
(a) don't judge or criticize (c) don't give it away Q8
(c) strong
Sandra is always falling and hurting herself. She's such a klutz. (a) irritating person
Q7
(b) naive
I get a kick out my little nephew. He's a cute and funny little guy. (a) enjoy
Q6
(c) junk collector
I know you're nervous but you have to keep your cool right now. (a) stay out of the sun
Q5
(b) untidy person
He just started his new job so he's still pretty green. (a) funny
Q4
(c) bathroom
Kyle is in a lot of trouble. He's a junkie and was caught stealing money last week. (a) drug addict
Q3
(b) hotel
(b) boxer
(c) very attractive person
John's classmate continually teased him until John gave him a knuckle sandwich in the fourth grade. (a) a bologna sandwich
(b) a punch in the face
(c) a chicken sandwich
Q10 I don't like to walk around after dusk because of the kooks that seem to emerge at that time. (a) weird people
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(b) coyotes
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) nice people
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 36
Answers Index
American Slang Words (10) Q1
I really like my brother-in-law because he's so laid-back. (a) sleepy
Q2
(b) inadequate
(b) overly aggressive
(b) a lot of money
(c) weak
(c) a small amount of money
Last month, Tim and Sherri maxed-out their credit cards because he was laid-off earlier this year. (a) reached the credit limits of (c) cut up
Q9
(c) make any food
When Steven sold the rights to his unique and useful product, he made megabucks. (a) a lot of deer
Q8
(b) cause any problems
Bette plays a mean game of hockey. She's in the female league and is the top-scorer. (a) highly-skilled
Q7
(b) rolls and donuts for breakfast
Whenever Tom begins a new job, he keeps to himself, at first, because he doesn't want to make any waves. (a) cause property damage
Q6
(b) dance moves
Sophie exercises every day but she still can't get rid of those love handles. (a) rolls of fat around her stomach (c) suitors
Q5
(c) hurtful
Some men use a lot of lines to pick up girls at night clubs. (a) persuasive and complementary words (c) money
Q4
(c) relaxed and calm
That story Greg told us is pretty lame. He's always late and he has a million excuses for his behavior. (a) great
Q3
(b) active
(b) paid off
Beth needs to mellow out or she'll have a heart attack soon. (a) relax more
(b) eat more
(c) be more active
Q10 At work, a meltdown has taken place between the management and the workers. (a) an ice cream break (c) communication breakdown or collapse
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PHOTOCOPIABLE
(b) a strong relationship
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 37
Answers Index
American Slang Words (11) Q1
My boss gave me a lot of mickey mouse work to do recently. I wish he would challenge me more. (a) silly and not useful
Q2
(b) make a business move for
(b) stupid
I think that dresser is pretty neat. I wish I could build something like that. (a) big
Q5
(b) old
(c) toast it
(b) crazy and unstable
(c) crazy about squirrels
Can you pick me up after work? Sure, it's no sweat. (a) really a big problem
Q9
(b) heat it in the oven
Most of my colleagues in the office think that Sarah is nuts. (a) a good person
Q8
(b) bad things
I'll leave the frozen dinner out for you and then you can nuke it when you get home. (a) heat it in the microwave
Q7
(c) good
There are a lot of negatives about the new management team. (a) good things (c) film and developing costs
Q6
(c) speak to
That movie we saw last night was pretty mushy. Did you like it? (a) very emotional and tender (c) violent
Q4
(c) fun
Ted is going to make a move on Sandra at the party next week. (a) try to seduce
Q3
(b) cartoon
(b) no problem
(c) really expensive
I love your new pad. The location is great as well. (a) home
(b) park
(c) store
Q10 My new worker means well but sometimes he can be a pain in the neck. (a) hurtful
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(b) annoying
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) pleasant
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 38
Answers Index
American Slang Words (12) Q1
Tom is a party animal so he throws a lot of parties at his house. (a) loves to party and have a good time (c) doesn't like people
Q2
Simon tried to seduce Nicole but she told him to get his paws off of her. (a) lips
Q3
(b) drunk
(b) difficult
(c) fun
(b) to laugh too much
(b) eat a lot of food
(c) to talk too much
(c) smoke cigarettes
We've been driving for a long time so we need to make a pit stop soon. (a) stop and go to the bathroom (c) clean the car
Q9
(c) depressed
I'm starving. Let's get some pizza and pig out tonight. (a) drink a lot of alcohol
Q8
(c) food
Laura's mother told her not to make a pig of herself at the dinner party this coming weekend. (a) to eat too much
Q7
(b) not a lot of money
I'm not worried about the exam next week. It's going to be a piece of cake. (a) easy
Q6
(c) hands
Rowan was completely pickled at the party on Friday. (a) sour
Q5
(b) feet
Josephine works long hours for peanuts. She's going to ask for a raise soon. (a) a lot of money
Q4
(b) loves animals
(b) change the tires
Mathew usually drinks a lot and this weekend was no exception. He was plastered! (a) tired
(b) sad
(c) intoxicated
Q10 We've been working too hard lately. I'm pooped! (a) very happy
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(b) very excited
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) very tired
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 39
Answers Index
American Slang Words (13) Q1
Joanne wanted to pop her co-worker because of the insulting comments she made. (a) criticize
Q2
(b) hug
You paid last time. Dinner is on me this time. (a) is free because I want to pay for it (c) was filling and I don't feel well
Q3
(c) hit
(b) is expensive so I want you to pay for it
I'm going to recommend my cousin for the legal advice you need. He's a real pro and he'll give you the information you need. (a) amateur
Q4
(b) professional
(c) lawyer
Are you psyched up about your role in the play on the weekend? We've been rehearsing for months and I can't believe the big night is almost here. (a) mentally prepared for
Q5
(b) emotionally sound
(c) physically ill
(b) sleep
(c) vomit
Well, I had a great time tonight but I think I'm going to push-off now. (a) leave
Q9
(c) behaved well
I'm not feeling well. I think I have food poisoning and I feel like I'm going to puke. (a) fall down
Q8
(b) misplaced his money
She behaved very badly on the weekend. In fact, I think she's psycho and needs medical attention. (a) mentally ill
Q7
(c) happy about
Our boss lost it recently. He threatened to kill his family and now he's awaiting his trial in jail. (a) had a mental breakdown
Q6
(b) feeling sad about
(b) have a drink
(c) stay a while
Tim's subordinate is very disruptive at meetings so it's hard to tell who the quarterback is most days. (a) football player
(b) lead or boss
(c) secretary
Q10 Sean needs to make a quick buck this month because he doesn't have enough money to cover his rent check. (a) easy money
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(b) an agreement
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) an effort
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 40
Answers Index
American Slang Words (14) Q1
The teenagers next door make a lot of racket when their parents are out of town. (a) play a lot of tennis
Q2
(c) apartment
(b) new
(c) seasoned
(b) smiled at him
(c) told him to go home
(b) repossess
(c) redesign
That sitcom is a riot. My whole family watches it on Thursday evenings. (a) very funny
Q9
(b) small house
The bank is threatening to repo Liam's car because he's late on his payments. (a) refund
Q8
(c) decide
Our supervisor reamed him out on Monday because his work is not acceptable. (a) yelled at him
Q7
(b) learn
At work, there are some raw employees who think they can just do whatever they want. (a) natural
Q6
(c) eat something
You've been living in that rat hole forever. When are you going to move into a nicer place? (a) old and run down home
Q5
(b) drink some coffee
Let's meet on Friday. We need to rap about some things. (a) talk
Q4
(c) make a lot of noise
I'm so tired. I have to rack out for a while. (a) sleep
Q3
(b) eat a lot of food
(b) very serious
(c) very violent
I really dislike road hogs. They think they own the road. (a) people who aren't courteous and take up much of the roadway (c) people who walk their dogs on roadways
(b) people who don't like roadways
Q10 Can I have a scotch on the rocks please? (a) in a tall glass
79
(b) with soda
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) with ice
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 41
Answers Index
American Slang Words (15) Q1
Kevin and his family have had a rough time since the recent stock market crash. (a) easy time
Q2
(c) hat
(b) cats
(c) children
My baby sister rules the house. She's so spoiled! (a) dominates
Q5
(b) coat
There are a lot of rug rats in our neighborhood. (a) rodents
Q4
(c) a lot to do
My professor lost his hair and now he wears a rug. (a) wig
Q3
(b) hard time
(b) cleans
(c) occupies
We renovated our entire house and now we've run out of gas so the outdoor patio area will have to wait until we recover. (a) lost our momentum
Q6
(c) sleep
(b) honest acts
(c) worthy acts
The little boy was so hungry that he scarfed down his food in about twenty seconds. (a) quickly ate
Q9
(b) pack
Most pyramid schemes seem like big scams to me. (a) deceptive acts
Q8
(c) lost our car
I've been working all day so I'm going to hit the sack early tonight. (a) church
Q7
(b) lost our money
(b) stored
(c) slowly ate
Some young people think they can screw around at work and get paid for it. They are in for a big surprise. (a) waste time
(b) use tools
(c) work hard
Q10 Tom's boss warned him that if he screws up one more time, he's going to fire him for good. (a) wastes time (c) doesn't get along with his co-workers
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PHOTOCOPIABLE
(b) makes a mistake
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 42
Answers Index
American Slang Words (16) Q1
Ken is a very sharp guy. He learns things very quickly. (a) mean
Q2
(c) work camp
(b) happy
(c) depressed
(b) frightened
(c) shot
(b) potatoes
(c) apples
I'm not impressed with the progress. The whole process stinks. (a) is disgusting
Q9
(b) cold
My husband loves to eat spuds. He could eat them all day long. (a) tomatoes
Q8
(c) disagreed with
A loud noise spooked the horse and it quickly started galloping down the path. (a) stampeded
Q7
(b) bought
Heather was smashed at last year's Christmas party. Everyone is wondering if she'll do it again this year. (a) intoxicated
Q6
(c) purchase
The armed robbers were quickly apprehended and then thrown in the slammer. (a) prison
Q5
(b) look
My boss quickly shot down the idea I suggested at the meeting. He didn't even consider it for a moment. (a) agreed with
Q4
(c) funny
I didn't succeed the first time but I'm willing to give it another shot. (a) try
Q3
(b) intelligent
(b) smells bad
(c) is good
When the officer arrested the young boy, he asked him for a straight answer. (a) correct
(b) honest
(c) regular
Q10 My new job is really stressing me out. I think I'm going to look for a new one as soon as possible. (a) upsetting me
81
(b) emphasizing teamwork
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) enlightening
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 43
Answers Index
American Slang Words (17) Q1
I don't like my boss. I want to tell him to take a hike. (a) walk around a park
Q2
(c) starting a new business
(b) sewing thread
(c) clothes
(b) salvageable
(c) slightly damaged
(b) taken
(c) available
I'm so tired of renovating. I just want to veg out tonight. (a) do nothing and relax
Q9
(b) doing what I have to do
We went to a flea market and everything was up for grabs at good prices. (a) stolen
Q8
(c) made
I got into an accident on the weekend and my car was totaled. (a) damaged beyond repair
Q7
(b) lost
Marcel just bought some new threads at that trendy store downtown. (a) sewing material
Q6
(c) smart person
I've been at the office a lot lately. I'm just taking care of business. (a) having a good time
Q5
(b) generous person
When Tim was on vacation, he was taken for a lot of money at a hotel casino. He'll never learn. (a) stole
Q4
(c) leave
I feel like such a sucker. An acquaintance talked me into a pyramid scheme and I lost all of my savings. (a) gullible person
Q3
(b) go jogging
(b) eat vegetables
(c) drink some tea
I got a really good vibe from that guy. Let's call him again. (a) dance routine
(b) compact disk
(c) feeling
Q10 Why do you always carry that wad around when everyone else uses debit cards these days? (a) bundle of money
82
(b) big piece of chewing gum
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) backpack
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78.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 44
Answers Index
American Slang Words (18) Q1
The gang leader told his followers to waste their rivals on the weekend. They are all wanted criminals now. (a) kill
Q2
(c) be very alert
(b) wimp
(c) boaster
(b) good
(c) salty
(b) exhausted
(c) hungry
(b) Who bought
(c) Who made
Who's up for some pizza? (a) Who wants
Q9
(b) am intoxicated
I can't do one more thing right now. I'm spent. (a) broke
Q8
(c) salesman
My niece said her food was yukky. (a) bad
Q7
(b) repairman
Oh, stop being such a wuss. The bridge isn't even that high. (a) show-off
Q6
(c) car
I have to drink some coffee so I can get wired before the big exam. (a) am crazy
Q5
(b) keys
My cousin is a computer whiz. He maintains my system for me. (a) wizard
Q4
(c) drink alcohol with
Do you think I could borrow your wheels? I have an important appointment this afternoon. (a) tires
Q3
(b) compete against
The door is in good shape. But, it does have a nick in the lower left corner. (a) large hole
(b) small scratch or dent
(c) huge defect
Q10 Nukes are very dangerous weapons. They could destroy mankind for good. (a) Microwaves
83
(b) Nuclear weapons
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) Machine guns
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79.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 45
Answers Index
Clothing Idioms (1) Q1
That little boy has ants in his pants. (a) washed his clothes
Q2
(b) put a lot of effort into
(b) was unfashionable
(b) intelligent and well thought out
I think her new boyfriend is a wolf in sheep's clothing. (a) a person who wears animal skins (c) pretending to be dangerous
Q6
(b) pretending to be nice but is really dangerous
Bill's wife is mutton dressed as lamb. (a) dresses too young for her age (c) dresses in a very casual manner
Q7
(b) dresses too old for her age
Aurora was dressed to kill this weekend. (a) wore her worst clothes
Q8
(b) wore out-of-date clothes
(c) wore her best clothes
This information is very important. Keep it under your hat. (a) Don't tell anyone (c) Write it down and put it into a hat
Q9
(c) was cheerful and fair
At the meeting on Friday, the assistant manager made a silly, off-the-cuff comment. (a) angry and hurtful (c) unprepared and spontaneous
Q5
(c) sit down
Bruce's last comment hit below the belt. (a) was unfair and cowardly
Q4
(c) cannot sit still
My teacher told me to buckle down this term. (a) wear a seatbelt
Q3
(b) plays in the dirt
(b) Tell everyone
Many people don't want their dirty linen aired in public. (a) to have their dirty clothes drying on a clothes line (c) to speak in public
(b) to have their private affairs talked about in public
Q10 Sierra's dress fits her like a glove. (a) fits her very well
84
(b) is too big
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) is too short
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80.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 46
Answers Index
Clothing Idioms (2) Q1
The new nightclub was bursting at the seams this past weekend. (a) caught fire
Q2
(b) lost his mind
(b) he has holes in his pockets
Keep your shirt on! I'm going to tell you everything. (a) Don't take your clothes off (c) Don't sell your clothes
Q5
(b) Don't lose your temper
Jeff just lost his job. I wouldn't want to be in his shoes right now. (a) to be in his position
Q6
(b) to take his shoes
(b) wash our clothes
(c) eat
After all these years, Teresa still hasn't seen her husband in his birthday suit. (a) in a three piece suit
Q9
(b) he has future gambling plans
Well, it's time to roll up our sleeves! (a) work hard
Q8
(c) to go for a walk
However, when I asked him about his situation he told me not to worry because he has a card up his sleeve. (a) he has a poker game tonight (c) he has reserve plans that he stored and are available for future use
Q7
(c) lost all of his money
Kevin is always broke because money burns a hole in his pockets. (a) he spends his money quickly (c) he gives all of his money to charity
Q4
(c) collapsed
Joseph went to Reno and lost his shirt last month. (a) lost his favorite shirt
Q3
(b) was very busy
(b) in his good Sunday suit
(c) naked
Tara wears the pants in her household. (a) is the boss
(b) washes the clothes
(c) doesn't like dresses
Q10 Will told his friend to zip it up or else! (a) keep a secret strictly confidential (c) drive faster
85
(b) put his coat on
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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81.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 47
Answers Index
House/Building Idioms (1) Q1
The news about the tragic terrorist acts hit us like a ton of bricks. (a) didn't really affect us much (c) physically fell on our heads
Q2
My wife got really mad at me on the weekend and now I'm in the doghouse. (a) living with the dog
Q3
(b) in prison
(b) build a house
(b) clean my house
The restaurant owner was so happy and he announced that all drinks were on the house. (a) should be served outside (c) were free and paid for by the owner/restaurant
Q7
(b) should be served warm
The comedian was really funny. He brought the house down on the weekend. (a) received a lot of applause and praise (c) tore down the old theater in order to build a new one
Q8
(b) was very mean
I always tell my friend to make herself at home when she comes over. (a) act like my home is her home (c) build herself a house
Q6
(c) leave the house
I don't like that joke. It hit a little too close to home. (a) was closely related to my inner feelings (c) was stupid
Q5
(c) in trouble
My mother left for Europe on Friday. She asked me to hold the fort while she's away. (a) be the temporary manager
Q4
(b) strongly affected us
(b) got fired
Our neighbors talk about everyone but they don't realize that if you live in a glass house, you shouldn't throw stones. (a) you shouldn't judge others when you do the same things they do (c) you shouldn't throw rocks at anyone
Q9
(b) you shouldn't build a glass house because it is too delicate
When his father came home and saw the mess, he hit the roof and grounded his son for one month. (b) was enraged
(a) was somewhat disasppointed (c) punched the ceiling Q10 Megan doesn't like her run-of-the-mill job. (a) regular or ordinary
86
(b) difficult or challenging
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(c) pulp mill
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 48
Answers Index
Food Idioms Q1
I knew when Sandra told the lie that she would be eating her words later. (a) talking in the cafeteria (c) hungry
Q2
(b) admitting to her untrue claims
Everyone knows that our math teacher is out to lunch. (a) behaves in a crazy manner (c) is not here because he's having lunch
Q3
Jonathon asks for too much at work. He really wants to have his cake and wants to eat it too. (a) eat cake at work (c) have extra privileges at work without giving up anything in return
Q4
(b) short break from work
(b) eat slowly
(b) trying to gain favor by being really nice
Lilly is so skinny but she eats like a horse. (a) has a large appetite (c) eats horse meat
Q9
(b) eat bad tasting pie
The new girl is always sucking up to the boss. Last week, she bought his son a new pair of designer shoes. (a) suggesting new ideas (c) speaking her mind
Q8
(c) talk or chat
Nancy was forced to eat humble pie when the manager caught her in a lie. (a) admit her mistake and humbly apologize (c) eat alone
Q7
(c) workshop
I love to sit around and chew the fat with old friends. (a) eat fast food
Q6
(b) throw parties at work
Is it time for our coffee break? (a) work meeting
Q5
(b) went to have lunch early
(b) has no manners when she eats
Whenever Taylor invites a girl out to dinner, they go Dutch. He likes it that way. (a) share Dutch food (c) share the bill
(b) talk about the Dutch culture
Q10 Sally made her famous chocolate chip cookies from scratch. (a) using prepared dough from a box (c) without the use of sugar or any other sweeteners
87
PHOTOCOPIABLE
(b) without using prepared ingredients of any kind
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KEYS
ANSWER
Index
English Idioms and Expressions (Answer Keys)
88
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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elementary-1
1.
English Idioms and Expressions / Elementary level # 1 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Adding Up A1
I cannot understand why she did that, it really doesn't make sense. answer: (c) doesn't make sense
A2
All the students got high marks in the test but Mary got the most marks of all. answer: (d) got the most marks of all
A3
He has sold his house and has no job and so now he has almost no money. answer: (b) he has almost no money
A4
As a newspaper reporter she always wanted to get information directly. answer: (d) directly
A5
I think we can safely say now that we have got our money back, we are have been successful. answer: (c) have been successful
A6
He is the man who owns all the land and is the important man around here. answer: (c) the important man
A7
She never stops talking about herself and is is very conceited. answer: (d) is very conceited
A8
You will not slip over because the floor is totally dry. answer: (c) totally dry
A9
He kept saying he didn't do it but finally he said he had done it. answer: (b) finally
A10 I know you are very sorry that you broke the pot but things do occur. answer: (b) things do occur
89
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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elementary-2
2.
English Idioms and Expressions / Elementary level # 2 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Take it in A1
I'm sorry I didn't understand what he said. answer: (c) understand
A2
I hope she passes her exams next week. answer: (a) passes
A3
What time do you get out of bed in the morning? answer: (d) get out of bed
A4
When you stop work, you can start playing golf. answer: (b) start playing
A5
Don't do too much because you're very tired. answer: (d) do too much
A6
When does your plane leave the ground? answer: (a) leave the ground
A7
As a student she has just enough money to live simply. answer: (b) live simply
A8
I don't know who wrote this note because I can't read the signature. answer: (c) read
A9
We don't have enough money for a car so we use instead bicycles. answer: (b) use instead
A10 What time do you reach home after work? answer: (c) reach home
90
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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elementary-3
3.
English Idioms and Expressions / Elementary level # 3 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Take it easy A1
I just want to stay at home and watch television and relax. answer: (d) relax
A2
May I smoke in here? answer: (a) May I
A3
Can you cook well? answer: (c) Can you cook well
A4
When do you clean the dishes? answer: (a) clean the dishes
A5
She never talks in a loud voice to her children. answer: (c) talks in a loud voice to
A6
We're very tired of the bad weather. answer: (a) very tired of
A7
Don't forget to write to me when you're away. answer: (c) write to me
A8
She had never visited Paris before. answer: (d) visited
A9
I'm afraid he has made a mistake. answer: (d) made a mistake
A10 When you come to the crossroads, you go to the left. answer: (b) go to the left
91
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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elementary-4
4.
English Idioms and Expressions / Elementary level # 4 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
For Good A1
You'll never see your money again because I'm afraid he's gone permanently. answer: (b) permanently
A2
You've no need to worry I promise you they'll arrive on Thursday definitely. answer: (d) definitely
A3
They're very generous in that museum — not only is the entrance fee reasonable but they give you a brochure at no cost. answer: (a) at no cost
A4
Well, to begin with I honestly think we should work out what all this work is going to cost. answer: (c) to begin with
A5
As you're a friend of mine, I won't charge you much in fact I'll do it at no charge. answer: (d) at no charge
A6
I know it didn't look like that but the truth is they only did it as a joke. answer: (a) as a joke
A7
I do recommend you take out an insurance policy on the house to stop you worrying. answer: (b) to stop you worrying
A8
No wonder she's very happy, she's just been given promotion. answer: (c) very happy
A9
They decided to move away from the city to the countryside thinking about the children. answer: (d) thinking about
A10 The battleships were all waiting in the harbour prepared for war. answer: (a) prepared for war
92
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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elementary-5
5.
English Idioms and Expressions / Elementary level # 5 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
In Control A1
They tried without success to save enough money to buy a house and so finally they rented one. answer: (c) without success
A2
If you are at all unsure about the offer, please give me a ring. answer: (a) at all unsure
A3
The children knew full well they were unsafe skating because they had read the notice about the thin ice. answer: (d) unsafe
A4
Considering they are over 70 years old, you must admit they are fit. answer: (a) fit
A5
Thanks to her regular workouts and sensible diet she certainly strikes me as in good health. answer: (b) in good health
A6
I'm sorry to say that the boss is going to reprimand him over being late for work so many times. answer: (a) the boss is going to reprimand him
A7
What I really visualize is a garden where there is very little to look after throughout the year. answer: (c) visualize
A8
Although Romeo and Juliet loved each other very much, they still managed to kill themselves. answer: (b) loved each other very much
A9
I think you can stop worrying now because it's quite clear she's in control of the situation. answer: (a) in control
A10 Eventually when you've got used to the idea, you'll be pleased you did it. answer: (d) Eventually
93
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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elementary-6
6.
English Idioms and Expressions / Elementary level # 6 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Out of Control A1
If you don't tell the children the difference between right and wrong, they will soon be badly behaved. answer: (b) badly behaved
A2
If you think I'm going to parachute out of a plane for fun, you must be mad. answer: (a) mad
A3
Wait till they're unable to see, and then I'll show you what I'm buying them for Christmas. answer: (d) unable to see
A4
I'm very sorry but you're unlucky because we sold the last one about twenty minutes ago. answer: (b) unlucky
A5
Wait until they're unable to hear, then I tell you exactly what happened to them when they were on holiday. answer: (b) unable to hear
A6
You have a limited number of minutes to answer the test and you've spent 3 minutes so you've used up your time. answer: (a) you've used up your time
A7
I'm afraid I'm not feeling too well at the moment because I've only walked a little way and I can't breathe easily already. answer: (d) I can't breathe easily
A8
There's a big notice up there which unfortunately we didn't see because it said keep out. answer: (b) keep out
A9
I'm sorry to tell you that I can do nothing more for you because the situation is now outside my control. answer: (c) outside my control
A10 I'm awfully sorry but I I'll have to ask you to pay because I have no money. answer: (b) I have no money
94
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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elementary-7
7.
English Idioms and Expressions / Elementary level # 7 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
All Agog A1
Unfortunately the cooker overheated and then exploded and so it really wasn't long before the whole house was on fire. answer: (b) on fire
A2
After several days underground after the earthquake one child was pulled out still living. answer: (d) still living
A3
They found that there was no possibility of work in their own country so they decided to try their luck in another country. answer: (c) in another country
A4
I must congratulate her on the way she has overcome all her problems and gone back to her old job to start once more. answer: (b) once more
A5
I've looked everywhere for my passport and can only assume it has gone got lost. answer: (d) got lost
A6
When she told her parents that she had decided to get married, they were utterly surprised. answer: (a) surprised
A7
There are no two ways about it because the crime that has been committed is really similar to murder. answer: (c) similar to
A8
So many good ideas exist in large numbers in his mind, he finds it difficult to know where to start. answer: (b) exist in large numbers
A9
I spent ages fixing the nail in the wall to put the picture up and then I stood back and found it was not straight. answer: (a) not straight
A10 We couldn't wait for them to come home after their holidays as we were very interested to hear what had happened. answer: (c) very interested
95
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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elementary-8
8.
English Idioms and Expressions / Elementary level # 8 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Preposition Exercises A1
I'm sorry but that smells terrible because I'm afraid the meat is bad. answer: (c) is bad
A2
She just left him, said she didn't want to see him again and disappeared. answer: (a) didn't want to see him again
A3
I'm ready to go out tonight if you want to go to the match. answer: (d) I'm ready to go out
A4
He's always interested in elections and is very interested in politics. answer: (c) very interested in
A5
I believe that after all those arguments they agreed their marriage was ended. answer: (a) ended
A6
In confidence, so don't tell anyone, I'm sure he'll lose the election. answer: (b) In confidence
A7
You won't have to wait too long because another bus will arrive soon. answer: (c) will arrive
A8
Incidentally did you manage to see that film last night? answer: (d) Incidentally
A9
It's quite clear to everyone that she's a socialist from start to finish. answer: (a) from start to finish
A10 I honestly don't think I can make it tonight as I'm feeling a little unwell. answer: (c) unwell
96
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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elementary-9
9.
English Idioms and Expressions / Elementary level # 9 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Animal Idioms A1
His wife never lets him do what he wants and as a result he has an unhappy time. answer: (c) has an unhappy time
A2
A word of warning: don't let him make a fool of you. answer: (d) make a fool of you
A3
I would advise you to wait and see what develops. answer: (a) what develops
A4
I don't honestly think he is capable of being polite as people never change. answer: (c) people never change
A5
He's very greedy when it comes to eating and always takes the largest portion. answer: (d) largest portion
A6
I really don't know how to explain it as I am absolutely confused. answer: (c) absolutely confused
A7
Until he is more serious in his job and stops making jokes all the time, he won't get any more money. answer: (d) making jokes all the time
A8
He never makes any silly mistakes because he's got too much common sense. answer: (a) common sense
A9
Charlie doesn't like getting too tired so he gets his assistant to do all the hard work. answer: (d) hard work
A10 He doesn't really go around with many people because he's a bit of a lonely person. answer: (b) lonely person
97
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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elementary-10
10.
English Idioms and Expressions / Elementary level # 10 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Funny Idioms A1
You want to know why I've got a problem on my mind? answer: (c) a problem on my mind
A2
Yes, tell me about it. I'm listening carefully. answer: (a) listening carefully
A3
You remember I told you about that car that cost me a huge amount of money? answer: (d) a huge amount of money
A4
The one you bought from the man you called the man with the important job? answer: (b) the man with the important job
A5
Well, he's not that at all. He's a fool. answer: (a) a fool
A6
You mean he's a dishonest person? answer: (d) a dishonest person
A7
Yes, exactly because the car is rubbish and I went round to his garage knocking everything over in the show room. answer: (b) knocking everything over
A8
And when I reached his office I saw he was not really awake because he'd been having a short sleep. answer: (c) a short sleep
A9
And really the only reason you were there was because you wanted to have an argument with him? answer: (d) you wanted to have an argument with him
A10 Yes, that's right. I got my money back and as a result I exposed a lot of serious problems because other people got their money back, too. answer: (b) exposed a lot of serious problems
98
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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elementary-11
11.
English Idioms and Expressions / Elementary level # 11 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Expressing Emotions A1
I despise it when you talk to me like that! Stop doing that! answer: (d) despise
A2
I am eager to to hear about your English class. answer: (a) am eager to
A3
I am glad I was able to offer support in time of need for my friend when her mom died. answer: (b) to offer support in time of need for
A4
You've got me in love with you! answer: (c) in love with you
A5
I love you a lot! answer: (b) a lot
A6
I wish I could trust you again, but all that you ever did to me was to disappoint me. answer: (d) to disappoint me
A7
I love you deeply. answer: (a) deeply
A8
The truth is that you are inconsiderate me or my feelings. answer: (c) are inconsiderate
A9
I would like to apologize for what I said to you the other day. I was very harsh to you. Will you forgive me? answer: (d) harsh
A10 It's taking a long time for Jenna recover from the death of her mom. answer: (b) recover from
99
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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elementary-12
12.
English Idioms and Expressions / Elementary level # 12 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Just keep it A1
Charlie's having a lot of problems with his business but at least he's managing to survive. answer: (c) managing to survive
A2
That's the thing about Charlie even when things are really bad he doesn't panic and stays calm. answer: (a) stays calm
A3
In a situation like his of course the one thing you must do is get enough money to live on and try to find money to pay all the bills. answer: (b) get enough money to live on
A4
At least Charlie can manage that but he doesn't go telling everyone about his problem and doesn't talk about himself to others. answer: (d) doesn't talk about himself to others
A5
Some of his friends are a bit worried about him because he doesn't seem so friendly to them as he used to be and doesn't let people get too close. answer: (a) doesn't let people get too close
A6
The main thing that you have to admire him for is that he doesn't get into trouble and behaves legally. answer: (b) behaves legally
A7
It's surprising how few people knew that Charlie was having money problems but I suppose it was because he had kept it secret. answer: (d) kept it secret
A8
His problem really was that he had tried very hard to be as successful as the rest of the people in his street by trying to remain on the same social level as his neighbours. answer: (a) to remain on the same social level as his neighbours
A9
When he confided in me, I promised Charlie that I wouldn't tell anybody about it and until now I did what I said. answer: (c) did what I said
A10 My only advice to Charlie was to try to be optimistic and stop worrying. answer: (b) try to be optimistic
100
PHOTOCOPIABLE
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intermediate-1
13.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 1 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Up to his ears A1
He's fully occupied with work and cannot possibly see you now. answer: (a) fully occupied with
A2
If you help me, then I shall be able to finish more quickly. answer: (b) help me
A3
I prefer to talk to people in person rather than to talk on the phone. answer: (a) in person
A4
The manager dismissed the new proposal utterly and said that it was not at all practical. answer: (b) utterly
A5
As she is new to the job I would ask you to observe on her for the time being. answer: (d) observe
A6
The opposition in parliament accused the government of being light hearted and refusing to accept the seriousness of the situation. answer: (a) being light hearted
A7
He accused her of talking nonsense and refused to accept a word of what she said. answer: (c) talking nonsense
A8
The police advised them to go down to the cellar in order to be away from danger. answer: (d) away from danger
A9
I'd do absolutely anything if I could get tickets for that concert. answer: (a) do absolutely anything
A10 You can always rely on Fred to say something embarrassing and come out with a remark like that. answer: (c) say something embarrassing
101
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intermediate-2
14.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 2 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Send the right message A1
This sort of behaviour does not set a good example to young people. answer: (d) does not set a good example
A2
The government are revealing plans today for a new tax system. answer: (b) are revealing
A3
I understand what you mean but I don't agree with you. answer: (a) I understand what you mean
A4
You must admire the way she maintains her opinion. answer: (b) she maintains her opinion
A5
I'm sorry I can't follow that, explain that once more. answer: (a) explain that once more
A6
Don't get depressed, it may not be as bad as you think. answer: (a) Don't get depressed
A7
I'm afraid he made a bad mistake for himself when he took that action. answer: (c) he made a bad mistake for himself
A8
Some people love taking advantage when they are in an argument. answer: (b) taking advantage
A9
There is absolutely no future in pursuing that sort of discussion. answer: (a) no future
A10 He prefers to delay a little longer by not deciding yet. answer: (d) to delay a little longer
102
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intermediate-3
15.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 3 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
A piece of cake A1
You shouldn't worry about the exam because you have prepared well and you'll probably find it very easy. answer: (d) very easy
A2
The trouble with you is that you are a bit selfish and your sole philosophy is to expect too much of life. answer: (a) expect too much of life
A3
When he heard that the necklace had been stolen, he suddenly lost interest in it. answer: (b) he suddenly lost interest in it
A4
He sits and watches TV all day and has turned into a very lazy person. answer: (c) a very lazy person
A5
Thanks to you we're really in deep trouble now and I don't honestly know why I ever listen to you. answer: (b) in deep trouble
A6
As he had been away from home for some years, they decided on his return to have a big celebration. answer: (a) have a big celebration
A7
There's something suspicious about that story he told us because I can't quite get to the bottom of it. answer: (c) suspicious
A8
Their mother always describes her twin sons as both looking exactly alike. answer: (d) both looking exactly alike
A9
After what he said and after what has happened he certainly seems to have made a fool of himself. answer: (a) have made a fool of himself
A10 He always took advice from his parents about being careful and never relied too much on one plan. answer: (b) relied too much on one plan
103
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intermediate-4
16.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 4 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Picking you up A1
Nobody knows what's happening? answer: (c) happening
A2
Don't worry we'll look after you. answer: (d) look after you
A3
What you need is something that will make you feel better. answer: (a) make you feel better
A4
I simply can't tolerate sugar in my tea or coffee. answer: (c) can't tolerate
A5
I have a feeling that she's trying to trick you. answer: (c) trying to trick you
A6
He's always reading. answer: (b) reading
A7
I think you're expecting too much of them as they are just children. answer: (d) expecting too much
A8
If you want my opinion, I think this needs examining. answer: (a) examining
A9
In the end I expect everything will be clear to you. answer: (c) In the end
A10 I think the time has come when you should give it a chance at least. answer: (d) give it a chance
104
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intermediate-5
17.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 5 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
As happy as the day is long A1
I'm sure that he could make a better job of being prime minister whatever the circumstances. answer: (c) whatever the circumstances
A2
Don't worry we pride ourselves on being helpful to all our customers and getting that booked for you is perfectly normal for us. answer: (d) perfectly normal
A3
Yes, we went away on holiday last week but it rained every single day. answer: (a) every single day
A4
I think the time has now come when we'll simply have to stop working. answer: (c) stop working
A5
You know what they said about radio that it had stopped being popular but it's still going strong. answer: (b) stopped being popular
A6
That last comment of yours assured us victory because nobody could possibly argue with you after that. answer: (a) assured us victory
A7
We left the children playing in the park and they were very happy. answer: (c) very happy
A8
They got engaged about two years ago and at long last they have said when they are getting married. answer: (a) said when they are getting married
A9
I've been doing these exercises for two hours now and I think at long last I'm starting to see the end of the task. answer: (c) see the end of the task
A10 I knew once the car didn't start, saw it had a flat tyre and also that it had started to rain, that this was going to be a day when nothing goes right. answer: (a) a day when nothing goes right
105
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intermediate-6
18.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 6 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Privacy A1
If I were you, I'd tell her to go away. answer: (c) go away
A2
I can't understand why he doesn't understand the point. answer: (a) understand the point
A3
I should be grateful if you would let me be private. answer: (b) be private
A4
I wish they would stop interfering in our affairs. answer: (c) interfering in
A5
I get the impression that they think we've stayed too long here. answer: (d) stayed too long
A6
We asked him if he wanted to join us on the outing but he refused — I think he prefers to be alone. answer: (a) he prefers to be alone
A7
She took no notice of him as soon as he entered the room. answer: (c) took no notice of him
A8
Since the news broke about the disaster, he's been trying not to be seen. answer: (d) trying not to be seen
A9
After the political scandal in the government no-one in the cabinet is prepared to speak in public. answer: (c) speak in public
A10 If you really want to come out of this without too much damage, my advice is to say nothing. answer: (b) say nothing
106
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intermediate-7
19.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 7 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Hold on A1
The audience watched anxiously as the magician started to saw a woman half. answer: (a) watched anxiously
A2
The police officer called out to the driver to wait until he arrived. answer: (c) wait
A3
In the end she lost her temper and told her daughter to be quiet. answer: (d) be quiet
A4
There's no need to change any of the regulations this year as the old ones will still be all right this year, too. answer: (b) be all right
A5
I don't know what it is exactly but she seems to have some kind of control over him. answer: (a) control over
A6
He blames her that she never let him move house and start a new job. answer: (d) blames
A7
I think your best plan is to delay making a decision until you know if you have passed the examination. answer: (a) delay
A8
It was a very difficult race but the jockey did as well as the others right until the end. answer: (b) did as well as the others
A9
Once he starts to talk about his favourite subject, he will speak endlessly until he is stopped. answer: (c) speak endlessly
A10 The trouble is that whenever he's with strangers he always restricts his feelings. answer: (b) restricts
107
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intermediate-8
20.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 8 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Money to burn A1
Money is the cause of wickedness, so what's the point of earning a lot? answer: (d) the cause of wickedness
A2
In my opinion rich people have influence and the little people are totally ignored. answer: (b) rich people have influence
A3
She's a really happy woman now because for once she's got money to spend. answer: (c) got money to spend
A4
In my opinion I would sooner go on a cruise than sit all day on the beach. answer: (b) In my opinion
A5
He has very little to do but he gets well paid and agrees it's easy money. answer: (d) easy money
A6
I think she should stop talking about it and give money for something she says she believes in. answer: (c) give money for something she says she believes in
A7
If you want to find some help with your project ask him because he spends money foolishly. answer: (b) he spends money foolishly
A8
As soon as he had won the lottery, he went crazy and started spending money freely. answer: (a) spending money freely
A9
When you consider all the advantages you've gained I think you'll admit you had a lot of benefit from your money. answer: (d) a lot of benefit from your money
A10 She's made it clear that we don't need to worry because money is not important. answer: (a) money is not important
108
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intermediate-9
21.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 9 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Go ahead A1
I'm sorry that looks awful — those two colours clash. answer: (c) clash
A2
After what you've experienced, I'm sure you need a holiday. answer: (d) experienced
A3
We won't discuss that now but I don't think we can avoid the subject much longer. answer: (a) discuss
A4
I don't think much of him now that I've heard what he has done to his family. answer: (d) I don't think much of him
A5
My advice to you is to make your mind up before it's too late and simply take the opportunity now. answer: (c) take the opportunity now
A6
I'm afraid you've left that food too long out of the fridge and now it's become rotten. answer: (b) become rotten
A7
There were so many members of the political party who had opposed the leader that he resigned. answer: (d) opposed
A8
Don't wait for me because I can't come yet so you go before me and I'll join you later. answer: (a) go before me
A9
If petrol prices increase any more, I shall have to use a bicycle. answer: (c) increase
A10 I'm sorry I interrupted you, please continue from where I so rudely stopped you. answer: (a) continue
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intermediate-10
22.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 10 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Under my Skin A1
It was late at night, the wind was howling and when she heard the knock on the door, she was terrified. answer: (b) was terrified
A2
As they only had a few minutes to get to the station, they ran all the way and finally caught the train just in time. answer: (a) just in time
A3
There's something about him I just can't stand and he really annoys me. answer: (d) annoys me
A4
I wouldn't do that but you do whatever you like, as it's not important to me. answer: (b) it's not important to me
A5
It doesn't matter what you say to her I promise you, she's not affected by criticism. answer: (a) she's not affected by criticism
A6
He looked at her and in the words of Frank Sinatra said: 'I'm very attracted to you'. answer: (c) I'm very attracted to you
A7
It was simply a case of running away or being killed and we decided to run to stay alive. answer: (d) to stay alive
A8
Be very careful what you say to Georgina about her new hairstyle; remember she is very sensitive. answer: (b) she is very sensitive
A9
I think the horse had been neglected for months and not been given enough to eat because it was very thin. answer: (a) very thin
A10 They say there's a very rare book in that pile of old books for sale so look carefully. answer: (d) look carefully
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intermediate-11
23.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 11 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Home Sweet Home A1
You must be crazy if you're seriously considering buying that house. answer: (b) be crazy
A2
If you don't mind me saying so I think you're exaggerating a bit, aren't you? answer: (a) you're exaggerating a bit
A3
All right then if you like I'll tell you my honest opinion. answer: (d) I'll tell you my honest opinion
A4
I'd appreciate that. Go on, I am listening very carefully. answer: (b) I am listening very carefully
A5
Well in the first place all the windows are broken, which is a serious problem. answer: (c) a serious problem
A6
Yes, I agree but at the same time it's not worth worrying about. answer: (a) worth worrying about
A7
Then of course there is that huge crack in one of the outer walls, that'll cost you a lot of money to repair. answer: (d) a lot of money
A8
You have a point but then I can deal with that eventually. answer: (b) eventually
A9
Finally there's one thing you can't just ignore and that is the missing roof! answer: (c) ignore
A10 I can see you're not stupid but you must admit it is very cheap. answer: (d) you're not stupid
111
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intermediate-12
24.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 12 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
No good A1
They won't succeed! They must pay for what they have done. answer: (b) They won't succeed
A2
I object! She must do as I say. answer: (c) I object
A3
I made it absolutely clear that he could in no way expect a pay rise this year. answer: (d) in no way
A4
They asked me whether I would accept a discount instead of a new machine. Impossible, I said. answer: (c) Impossible
A5
We invited her to come to our party in the hope of putting things right but she refused. answer: (b) refused
A6
I honestly don't know how you do it because personally I would be unable to manage. answer: (a) would be unable to manage
A7
This happens every time I start the engine up. I tell you I find it irritating. answer: (b) I find it irritating
A8
This is now the third time I've had to phone up and complain and I've reached the stage where I don't know when it will finish. answer: (d) I don't know when it will finish
A9
It's a waste of time shouting at me like that — I'm doing the best I can. answer: (a) It's a waste of time
A10 You'll get yourself in a huge amount of trouble if you persist in refusing to pay those taxes. answer: (c) a huge amount
112
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intermediate-13
25.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 13 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
On the Water A1
As usual he left it to the last moment and as a consequence he didn't take advantage of the opportunity. answer: (b) didn't take advantage of the opportunity
A2
I'm sorry to tell you that your current situation cannot be reversed now and so you won't be able to go back. answer: (a) your current situation cannot be reversed
A3
I told her I understood exactly what she was feeling as we were both after all in a similar situation. answer: (d) in a similar situation
A4
No matter how smoothly things are running, you can always rely on Charlie to spoil everything. answer: (c) spoil everything
A5
We were all a bit worried about the new manager because we heard that she liked to be well organized. answer: (a) be well organized
A6
Although they were a couple well into their 80's everything in their house was always very neat. answer: (b) very neat
A7
Everybody imagined that there was a big romance between the two of them but it turned out they were merely strangers meeting once. answer: (c) strangers meeting once
A8
Sadly it never happened but she was absolutely sure she would be rich one day and she could buy that house in the country. answer: (d) she would be rich
A9
In view of his change in fortune he decided to spend a lot of money and hold a big party. answer: (a) spend a lot of money
A10 Once you've read the instruction book, you'll probably find it's straightforward. answer: (c) straightforward
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intermediate-14
26.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 14 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
British Idioms A1
I had quite a shock last night. I ran into a former girlfriend of mine. answer: (c) a former girlfriend
A2
I suppose she was your favourite person at the time. answer: (c) your favourite person
A3
Yes, I suppose she was but she'd changed so. She was very thin. answer: (a) very thin
A4
And I suppose you didn't panic and were very calm? answer: (b) very calm
A5
Well I didn't have a personal reason for getting involved as far as she's concerned. answer: (c) a personal reason for getting involved
A6
You mean there was no hostile feelings between the two of you? answer: (a) no hostile feelings
A7
No, not really except she did get angry sometimes but not as dangerous as she seemed. answer: (b) not as dangerous as she seemed
A8
Was she going anywhere or was she doing nothing particular? answer: (a) doing nothing particular
A9
Not really. Funny thing is I asked her out and she didn't show any reaction. What I want to know is whether I did the right thing. answer: (d) didn't show any reaction
A10 I can't help you there my friend. You must decide. answer: (b) You must decide
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intermediate-15
27.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 15 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Expressions with cold A1
The way he murdered his victims in a slow, painful way was really without feeling. answer: (a) without feeling
A2
Whenever they met, she would always manage to ignore him and turn the other way. answer: (c) ignore
A3
Unfortunately he panics when he sees her, can't think straight and doesn't know what to do. answer: (d) panics
A4
I'm afraid I'm getting worried about this scheme as I'm not sure it's such a good idea. answer: (a) worried about
A5
All right he got some money for his troubles but not very much and really it was little consolation to him. answer: (c) little consolation
A6
It's difficult to describe him because he doesn't really say or do much he's what you might call an impassive person. answer: (b) an impassive person
A7
Every day we get unwanted calls on the phone from total strangers trying to sell you something. answer: (d) unwanted calls
A8
You never really know where you are with her as she keeps changing her mood. answer: (c) keeps changing her mood
A9
They refused to let her into their circle of friends and left her all alone. answer: (a) all alone
A10 You know he won't approve as he always disapproves of any new ideas. answer: (d) disapproves of
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intermediate-16
28.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 16 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Way Idioms A1
Incidentally are you thinking of going on holiday? answer: (a) Incidentally
A2
If I'm hindering you, I'll leave the room. answer: (c) I'm hindering you
A3
Every investor is really pleased because profits have gone up hugely this year. answer: (d) have gone up hugely
A4
As your house is on our route, we'll give you a lift home if you like. answer: (b) on our route
A5
At the moment plans are in progress and the work should be finished next year. answer: (a) in progress
A6
We don't usually allow refunds but occasionally we agree. answer: (d) occasionally
A7
The army commander was very concerned about his troops and would never allow them to be in in danger. answer: (d) in danger
A8
You'll just have to make a decision. You can't benefit by agreeing to two opposite views. answer: (b) benefit by agreeing to two opposite views
A9
In view of the considerable opposition the members agreed to yield. answer: (a) yield
A10 She left school and immediately started to earn her living without help from her family. answer: (c) earn her living
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intermediate-17
29.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 17 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Idioms with come A1
Can you repeat that? Sorry, I didn't hear what you said. answer: (c) Can you repeat that
A2
Your mom is going to reprimand you if you don't clean your room now. answer: (a) reprimand
A3
New evidence was revealed at the end of the trial. answer: (d) was revealed
A4
Robert Koch was the first person to discover a medicine to help in the treatment of Tuberculosis. answer: (b) discover
A5
My dream of having my own house has finally happened. answer: (a) happened
A6
A lot of people from the office I work at got sick with the flu this past week. answer: (c) got sick with
A7
In the end, it all is because of the fact that you don't really care about me. answer: (d) is because of
A8
When my boss asked me to come to his office this morning, little did I know I was going to go through some harsh comments. answer: (a) going to go through
A9
I was turning into the left lane when a car suddenly appeared and hit me. answer: (b) suddenly appeared
A10 I need to objectively and entirely confront and understand myself. answer: (d) objectively and entirely confront and understand
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intermediate-18
30.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 18 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Common English Idioms A1
Tom told Andrea that giant turtles had escaped from the city zoo and were eating only left-handed people. It wasn't until she saw the smirk on his face that Andrea noticed he was just fooling her. answer: (b) fooling her
A2
Why should she take a big risk for them? They never helped her with anything. answer: (c) take a big risk
A3
I am so mad at my boyfriend. We were supposed to have a date last night at the park but he didn't come. answer: (a) didn't come
A4
It seems like something has been bothering and upsetting John lately. He's just not the same person any more. answer: (d) bothering and upsetting
A5
I have a really strong instinct that one of the employees is giving information about his boss to another company. answer: (b) really strong instinct
A6
Andrew and Ana have been dating each other for so long that I think it's about time they got married. answer: (c) got married
A7
Bob's mom was angry with him when she saw his report card from school. answer: (c) was angry with him
A8
It makes me completely lose interest when guys dont respect my boundaries. answer: (a) makes me completely lose interest
A9
Ever since Melanie won the Miss Universe Competition, her telephone has been ringing constantly. answer: (c) ringing constantly
A10 I think George and Lisa would make a great couple. We should try to get them together. answer: (d) get them together
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intermediate-19
31.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 19 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Idioms with Hand A1
We need to do something about it! This situation is getting out of control! answer: (c) out of control
A2
Now the grandparents have the children in their care. answer: (a) in their care
A3
This last year, my company has made money at a huge rate! answer: (b) at a huge rate
A4
As soon as he took possession of all that money, he donated part of it to charitable institutions. answer: (d) took possession of
A5
The beginning of a new generation of computer software is imminent. answer: (a) imminent
A6
Do we have enough people available to help us move our stuff into the house? answer: (b) available
A7
The FBI told the local police that their case was out of their jurisdiction. The investigation was now a Federal matter. answer: (c) out of their jurisdiction
A8
Jane Williams is a very good investigative reporter, you've got to give her credit. answer: (a) give her credit
A9
Honey, can you give me the car key, please? It's right next to you on the table. answer: (c) give me
A10 Learning a foreign language goes together with International Business. answer: (d) together
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intermediate-20
32.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 20 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
English Idioms and Phrases A1
You have to raise your voice a little when talking to him. He's a little deaf. answer: (c) deaf
A2
I went to a real nice restaurant yesterday. The food cost was cheap and they served a lot of food. I had to ask for a package to store left over food so the person can take it home because I couldn't eat the whole thing. answer: (a) package to store left over food so the person can take it home
A3
Fabian was a coward. No wonder his classmates were always giving him a hard time. answer: (c) coward
A4
I invited a friend to go to a street market by my house where they served some real good Japanese food. My friend's mom wanted to pay for her daughter's meal, but I insisted on paying for both our meals myself, her mom finally said: Ok, as long as we we divide the costs next time. answer: (d) we divide the costs
A5
So, is everything clear? Oh, yes indeed sir! answer: (b) clear
A6
We are having a dinner where everybody brings something to eat at Tim's house tomorrow. Everybody is invited! answer: (a) dinner where everybody brings something to eat
A7
I need everybody's help. The wedding is tomorrow and we haven't even started with the decorations yet. We have to start right now. answer: (d) to start right now
A8
Just calm down. Everything is going to be alright, okay? answer: (c) calm down
A9
Kyle was rescued from an unwanted situation when his sister walked in and asked him to take her to ballet practice. answer: (a) rescued from an unwanted situation
A10 I would stay away from that guy if I were you, he is crazy. answer: (d) is crazy
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intermediate-21
33.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 21 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Expressions with make A1
Everybody thought Jane and Elliot were a happy couple, but it was all just pretending. answer: (b) pretending
A2
I've been working hard for the last few months trying to make enough money to pay for expenses, but something I'm not even expecting always comes up and I have to pay for it. answer: (a) make enough money to pay for expenses
A3
Man's first walk on the moon was meaningful enough to influence history. answer: (d) was meaningful enough to influence history
A4
You can give people great pleasure just by telling them how important they are to you. answer: (c) give people great pleasure
A5
If I had a chance to go to Paris, I would take great advantage of it. answer: (b) take great advantage of
A6
Charity acted like a fool at the club when she saw her boyfriend dancing with another girl. answer: (d) acted like a fool
A7
So, George... Have you decided where you want to go for your internship? answer: (a) decided
A8
Now I understand why you moved out of that house. answer: (b) I understand
A9
Ana finally succeeded. She is an excellent doctor. answer: (c) succeeded
A10 Mom, can you tell Todd to stop mocking me? answer: (a) mocking
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intermediate-22
34.
English Idioms and Expressions / Intermediate level # 22 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Double Speak in Job Titles A1
The school janitor was the main suspect of the girl's disappearance. answer: (c) janitor
A2
Linda got a job as secretary in a Law Firm. answer: (d) secretary
A3
Celebrities are usually surrounded by their bodyguards. answer: (b) bodyguards
A4
George is in the food business now. He is a potato chip delivery truck driver. answer: (b) a potato chip delivery truck driver
A5
I have always wanted to be a hairdresser. answer: (a) a hairdresser
A6
My mom used to work at a hospital as a nurse. answer: (c) a nurse
A7
Bob used to work as a newspaper delivery boy during school summer breaks when he was a kid, now he has his own newspaper. answer: (c) a newspaper delivery boy
A8
Some places in New York have advertised on the newspaper they needed part-time check-out clerks. answer: (a) check-out clerks
A9
The day before Carol's wedding, her bridesmaids went to see a a manicurist. answer: (d) a manicurist
A10 The television weatherman said on TV that it is supposed to rain all day tomorrow. answer: (b) television weatherman
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advanced-1
35.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 1 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
English Animal Idioms A1
There are times when you must decide and make a bold decision. answer: (c) make a bold decision
A2
He never does what he wants really because his freedom is always curtailed. answer: (d) never does what he wants
A3
No-one ever mentions him because he's regarded as the one with a bad reputation. answer: (b) the one with a bad reputation
A4
I shouldn't go outside without a raincoat because it's raining very heavily. answer: (c) it's raining very heavily
A5
You shouldn't sign there I think he's about to make a fool of you. answer: (a) to make a fool of you
A6
It's a lovely house and very big but nobody uses it so it's something very expensive and useless. answer: (d) something very expensive and useless
A7
When the business folded, he took the biggest part of the assets. answer: (c) the biggest part
A8
Without my glasses I can't see where I'm going in fact I'm very short sighted. answer: (a) very short sighted
A9
I get very irritated sometimes because they're always up very early and I like to lie in. answer: (b) up very early
A10 I would advise you to do that as well and in that way you'll get two things done at the same time. answer: (c) get two things done at the same time
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advanced-2
36.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 2 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Hands on A1
The opposition party dismissed the government's proposal without further consideration. answer: (a) without further consideration
A2
Since she started work on the stock exchange she has been making money in large quantities. answer: (b) in large quantities
A3
They have lost all their money and now lead a sort of impoverished existence. answer: (a) impoverished
A4
It's no good asking anybody in that shop to help you because they won't do anything at all for you. answer: (d) do anything at all for you
A5
In the obituary about the millionaire all his enterprises were listed and it looked as if he had had an involvement in many activities. answer: (b) an involvement in many activities
A6
I've just bought a brand new car with all the latest gadgets and quite honestly it has cost me a huge amount of money. answer: (c) a huge amount of money
A7
I don't want to have to force you to agree but I hope you realize that your refusal to comply could be harmful. answer: (b) force you to agree
A8
Have a look at the benefits that the society can offer you and then you may feel like deciding to try membership for a trial. answer: (d) deciding to try membership for a trial
A9
If you do join a political party then you are expected to stick to the rules on every occasion. answer: (b) stick to the rules
A10 I wouldn't say I never totally agree with my employers but sometimes they can make extraordinary demands. answer: (c) totally agree
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advanced-3
37.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 3 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Lucky Alex A1
Alex had lost a lot of money and as a consequence was feeling miserable. answer: (b) miserable
A2
He had given in to a longstanding weakness of his and put a lot of faith in on the favourite winning the race. answer: (d) put a lot of faith in
A3
This horse in all honesty didn't have a a chance in a million of winning. answer: (a) a chance in a million
A4
Alex said he had had a dream about the horse winning but most people regarded this story with caution. answer: (b) with caution
A5
What happened was that the stupid animal took fright halfway through the course and without worrying at all decided to go back to the start. answer: (d) worrying at all
A6
As far as Alex was concerned this was the final disaster and he vowed he would never risk money on a horse ever again. answer: (c) the final disaster
A7
The trouble was that he didn't have a penny not even enough to pay for the fare home. answer: (b) didn't have a penny
A8
He decided he would not worry what people thought and try and hitchhike. answer: (c) not worry what people thought
A9
Fortunately it wasn't long before he got a lift with an old man who was very generous and gave him some money. answer: (a) was very generous
A10 He told him to invest it wisely, which Alex did. He bought a ticket for the lottery and his luck changed because he won the jackpot. answer: (c) his luck changed
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advanced-4
38.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 4 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
How Mary fell in love A1
Most people like to come home after work and relax. answer: (c) relax
A2
Mary was exactly the same as everybody else but this particular night she wanted to really enjoy herself. answer: (c) really enjoy herself
A3
She put her favourite CD on and turned it up to maximum volume. answer: (d) to maximum volume
A4
As soon as she had done that, there was a huge noise. answer: (c) there was a huge noise
A5
Her next door neighbour soon grew very tired of the noise. answer: (d) grew very tired of
A6
He started hammering on the adjoining wall but Mary took not the slightest notice. answer: (c) took not the slightest notice
A7
In the end her neighbour decided to say exactly what he thought. answer: (a) say exactly what he thought
A8
Although he had never met her, he was determined to tell her off. answer: (a) tell her off
A9
Mary opened the door and as soon as they saw each other they fell utterly in love with each other. answer: (b) utterly
A10 A few months later they decided to knock down the adjoining wall and now everything is perfect. answer: (b) everything is perfect
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advanced-5
39.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 5 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Call it a day A1
I congratulate all those people who worked hard to get the contract. answer: (c) congratulate
A2
Some of you worked on until it was early in the morning to make it a successful project. answer: (b) it was early in the morning
A3
I'm sure sometimes you all wanted to stop work and go home. answer: (a) stop work
A4
The important thing is that as soon as you saw the advantages, you got very interested in it. answer: (c) got very interested in
A5
I'm also very proud of the way you wouldn't give up. answer: (b) wouldn't give up
A6
There are times in life when it's very important to be cheerful. answer: (d) be cheerful
A7
There are of course those who very easily give up. answer: (a) give up
A8
We can best describe someone like that as a person who is having no resolution. answer: (a) having no resolution
A9
It only remains for me to express my admiration for all those of you who remained loyal. answer: (c) remained loyal
A10 I must not forget either all those very important people, without whom none of us could operate, who work in the background. answer: (d) in the background
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40.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 6 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Live up to A1
Frank was an old soldier and experienced many wars. answer: (d) experienced
A2
He had joined the army as a young man because he wanted to have a good time a bit. answer: (c) have a good time
A3
He wanted excitement and travel and the army came up to its reputation. answer: (a) came up to
A4
He certainly travelled and there was plenty of excitement, which made it possible for him to follow his dream. answer: (c) follow
A5
He also managed to exist easily on his pay without any problems. answer: (b) exist easily on
A6
He ate only the simple food provided by the army. answer: (a) ate only
A7
For some years stayed in barracks in because he liked to be among his comrades. answer: (b) stayed in barracks
A8
He never really enjoyed staying in other accommodation. answer: (a) staying in other accommodation
A9
He never did anything wrong and so he didn't have to make others forget any bad reputation. answer: (b) make others forget
A10 He ended his final days in a small cottage overlooking the barracks. answer: (d) ended
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advanced-7
41.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 7 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
English Grammar Prepositions A1
What are you doing now? answer: (b) doing now
A2
What are you interested in? answer: (d) interested in
A3
I'm having a holiday on Monday. answer: (a) having a holiday
A4
Are you kept informed about the latest developments? answer: (a) kept informed about
A5
It's your turn. answer: (d) It's your turn
A6
Are you at home on Tuesdays? answer: (a) at home
A7
I'm certainly willing to try it. answer: (a) willing to try
A8
You should know that I'm in complete agreement with it. answer: (c) in complete agreement with
A9
I'm finished with that company. answer: (b) finished with
A10 I'm looking for a new car. answer: (b) looking for
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42.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 8 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
From Shakespeare originally A1
When he heard that he had lost his job, it was little help to learn that he could keep his car. answer: (d) little help
A2
The selection of candidates was done in a casual manner so that nobody knew why they were chosen. answer: (d) casual
A3
She had got herself into difficulties by trying to please everyone at the same time. answer: (c) into difficulties
A4
I'm afraid that my poor old car has finally stopped working. answer: (a) stopped working
A5
You're living in a under a delusion if you think they're going to pay you for nothing. answer: (d) under a delusion
A6
It was a total mystery as apparently there was no logical reason why he did it. answer: (a) no logical reason
A7
There is clearly a huge change in the way people now look at crime today. answer: (b) a huge change
A8
They looked everywhere for the lost passport but it seems to have disappeared completely. answer: (c) disappeared completely
A9
When it comes to a crisis, Charles is very reliable. answer: (b) very reliable
A10 Whenever he has been treated badly, he always demands his total recompense. answer: (a) total recompense
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43.
English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 9 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Water Expressions A1
Charlie's in trouble again, he forgot to lock up last night. answer: (d) in trouble
A2
Forget it, that's best forgotten now. answer: (a) best forgotten
A3
That's always the trouble if she doesn't like it, she discourages it completely. answer: (b) discourages it completely
A4
You must realize the gravity of the situation because you are in a serious situation now. answer: (c) a serious situation
A5
He feels uncomfortable whenever he goes to a party. answer: (a) feels uncomfortable
A6
Don't ever lend him money, he spends it very freely. answer: (c) very freely
A7
We think in the present circumstances the best policy is to take little action for a while. answer: (c) take little action
A8
My original plan has been so reduced in importance that I don't recognize it now. answer: (a) reduced in importance
A9
Your ideas are usually sound but this one won't be practical, I'm afraid. answer: (b) be practical
A10 He'll be all right soon because any criticism is usually of no importance to him. answer: (a) of no importance
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 10 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Cats, Dogs and Ducks A1
You will be in a very difficult situation now that he's revealed the truth. answer: (c) revealed the truth
A2
If I were you, I would not raise the subject again and my best advice is to not say any more. answer: (c) not say any more
A3
Remember if you go into that meeting without being prepared with some answers, you will simply be a ready target. answer: (b) a ready target
A4
I'm afraid he didn't take my advice and they made him look a complete fool because he was unrepared and he ended up a person with no future. answer: (c) a person with no future
A5
Mind you as I have said many times before I don't know how he's lasted so long in the job because he's always been the inefficient person in the team. answer: (b) the inefficient person
A6
The older generation always maintains that in their day things were better and nowadays the country is losing its standards. answer: (c) is losing its standards
A7
If you're unsure about what will happen next, I suggest you hang on for a bit longer. answer: (d) what will happen next
A8
There is no need to apologize about your remarks as I can assure you it's of little concern to me. answer: (c) of little concern
A9
Once more he is out of favour but I couldn't possibly tell you why. answer: (b) out of favour
A10 As so many people are coming to a party at their house, they're running around preparing food in a nervous state. answer: (a) in a nervous state
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 11 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Losing It A1
The one thing a public figure hates is when he loses respect in front of all his admirers. answer: (c) loses respect
A2
At the crucial moment the climber became scared and had to be brought down the mountain. answer: (c) became scared
A3
The latest opinion polls show that the government is losing its advantage to the opposition party. answer: (d) losing its advantage
A4
There was a time when everybody would believe her totally but after this episode I'm afraid she's losing her skill. answer: (a) losing her skill
A5
Under the new pay agreement many employees feel that they are at a disadvantage on allowances. answer: (b) at a disadvantage
A6
I'm afraid that kind of humour is totally without effect him so you'll have to explain it more simply. answer: (a) without effect
A7
After only a few weeks as a teacher of very badly behaved children she realized she was losing her control. answer: (c) losing her control
A8
He suddenly started shouting and screaming and people could plainly see that he had become angry. answer: (a) become angry
A9
I've tried very hard indeed to understand your argument step by step but I must confess I now can't follow the reasoning. answer: (d) I now can't follow the reasoning
A10 After the traffic accident she behaved foolishly and drove the car into a brick wall. answer: (b) behaved foolishly
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 12 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Splitting Hairs A1
We told him to remain calm because he was getting angrier and angrier. answer: (b) to remain calm
A2
I can't really explain it but the moment she walks into the room and asks me a question she irritates me. answer: (d) irritates me
A3
Now that he's passed his exams and got his qualifications he's decided to behave informally. answer: (a) behave informally
A4
When I opened the door and saw this white figure in front of me, it really terrified me. answer: (c) terrified me
A5
After the boss had given her the sack, she just walked out of the office showing no feeling at all. answer: (b) showing no feeling at all
A6
Quite frankly you're arguing about small points. Does it matter whether it's the past simple or the perfect tense? answer: (a) arguing about small points
A7
I saw him last November and since then I have not seen him at all. answer: (c) not seen him at all
A8
Don't worry if she doesn't say much because she says she's experiencing a lot of problems. answer: (a) she's experiencing a lot of problems
A9
I was really scared when I saw him because he was extremely angry about the new management decision. answer: (c) extremely angry
A10 They were very lucky they didn't get themselves killed because they came very near to falling down the mountain. answer: (a) very near to
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 13 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Squeaky Clean A1
The auditors made a thorough check on all aspects of the company and decided to confirm it was satisfactory. answer: (a) confirm it was satisfactory
A2
Now that all the problems have been sorted out he is able to go back to work making a fresh start. answer: (c) making a fresh start
A3
After a great deal of questioning he decided to confess and tell the truth. answer: (d) confess
A4
The enquiry into allegations of fraud against the minister proved in the end that she was innocent. answer: (c) she was innocent
A5
With the appointment of a new director it was decided to remove all obstacles and create a new board of governors. answer: (a) remove all obstacles
A6
Some of the members of the board are under some suspicion but he is regarded as trustworthy. answer: (b) trustworthy
A7
I lost a lot of money well and truly last week: I saw the same computer for sale today at half the price I paid. answer: (b) lost a lot of money
A8
We tried to catch the thief who'd snatched the handbag but he ran away quickly. answer: (c) ran away quickly
A9
At the end of a lengthy police investigation he emerged as totally innocent. answer: (d) totally innocent
A10 After several hours of cleaning the children had made the kitchen spotless before their parents came home. answer: (a) spotless
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 14 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Word of Mouth A1
I promise it will never happen again. answer: (c) promise
A2
She had to admit she was wrong when it turned out that she had chosen the wrong horse in the race. answer: (d) admit she was wrong
A3
They quarrelled last night so be prepared for miserable faces this morning. answer: (c) quarrelled
A4
You can always rely on that company because they do what they say whatever happens. answer: (b) do what they say
A5
They spend very little on advertising and tend to get new work through recommendation. answer: (a) recommendation
A6
You can see that he's deeply in love with her because he listens eagerly to everything she says. answer: (b) listens eagerly to everything she says
A7
Straightaway we could tell at the interview she was the ideal candidate for the job. answer: (c) Straightaway
A8
Remember as soon as you feel able to continue with walk, let me know. answer: (a) let me know
A9
I can only repeat that I want you to wait until Tuesday before you tell her, remember don't say anything. answer: (c) don't say anything
A10 I couldn't agree with you more, to be honest you've said what I wanted to say. answer: (b) said what I wanted to say
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 15 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Expressions and idioms with thin A1
He worries too much about his appearance and now he says he's going bald. answer: (c) going bald
A2
She lost her job last year and since then she's been finding it difficult without money. answer: (d) finding it difficult without money
A3
He really must start eating properly because at the moment he's very thin. answer: (a) very thin
A4
If you know of a good plumber, let me know as they're a bit difficult to find around here. answer: (b) difficult to find
A5
Although he only asked me to lend him EUR 5, I could see this was the start of something worse. answer: (c) start of something worse
A6
Since we put that advertisement in the local newspapers, replies have been coming in quickly in large numbers. answer: (a) quickly in large numbers
A7
You'll be lucky if you get more than two words out of him because I'm afraid he's very stupid. answer: (d) very stupid
A8
They've settled their argument at long last and now they're very friendly. answer: (b) very friendly
A9
In view of the way she behaved I thought it was more than I could stand when she asked him to apologize to her. answer: (c) more than I could stand
A10 There are certain members in the party who will stand by their leader whatever the difficulties. answer: (d) whatever the difficulties
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 16 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Expressions with Top A1
He's always worried about his appearance and now he's concerned because he's losing his hair. answer: (a) losing his hair
A2
When the accident happened, all he could think about was attracting attention and he started calling out as loudly as possible. answer: (d) as loudly as possible
A3
At a rough calculation I would say it's going to cost more than twice what you have budgeted for. answer: (d) At a rough calculation
A4
It's certainly not difficult to see who's the most important person around here theses days. answer: (c) the most important person
A5
Since she won the lottery last week she's been feeling very happy. answer: (b) very happy
A6
Many politicians like to impress the votes but a few of them exaggerate sometimes in their speeches. answer: (a) exaggerate
A7
For the first time in ages I actually slept very soundly last night. answer: (d) very soundly
A8
Students usually take on paid employment during the vacation to add to their grants. answer: (c) add to
A9
Her mother was very snobbish and didn't like the idea of her daughter marrying someone who was not of high social standing. answer: (b) of high social standing
A10 It had been a terrible day for him and when he learned finally that he had lost his job, he simply lost his temper. answer: (a) lost his temper
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 17 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Down to Earth A1
Poor Charlie has been miserable since he learned that he's lost his job. answer: (a) miserable
A2
I think we've had our fun and now it's time we began seriously to consider the idea of earning some money. answer: (c) began seriously to consider
A3
As soon as they heard the news that one of their fellow workers had been given the sack, they all stopped working. answer: (b) stopped working
A4
She always speaks condescendingly to me as if I'm not worth consideration. answer: (c) speaks condescendingly
A5
In contrast to her husband she's a very practical sort of person who manages to control his wild ideas. answer: (d) practical
A6
He's certainly picked himself up since we last saw him when he was clearly shabbily dressed. answer: (b) shabbily dressed
A7
I invested all my money in that failed company and now I find my whole investment has been wasted. answer: (c) has been wasted
A8
You can use special symbols in your emails if you want to show you're depressed. answer: (d) depressed
A9
Let's put it like this — you made the decision and so it's your responsibility as to what happens next. answer: (a) your responsibility
A10 They've had enough of the bad climate and high taxes here and have gone to live in Australia. answer: (c) in Australia
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 18 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Expressions with low A1
If you like, I can give you a summary and the information when we next meet. answer: (a) information
A2
It's the fashion now to write the first letter of your name not in capitals but in small letters. answer: (c) small letters
A3
She's usually very fit and healthy and that's why we were surprised to learn she was unwell. answer: (d) unwell
A4
On account of his unpopularity the politician decided to keep away from the public for a few weeks. answer: (b) keep away from the public
A5
In the 19th century in big houses the people who lived in the basement were the servants. answer: (c) in the basement
A6
From the critical comments the journalist was making, it was clear he didn't think much of the country's leader. answer: (d) didn't think much of
A7
We knew that he was dishonest but we didn't imagine he behave so disgracefully as to steal from his own family. answer: (a) behave so disgracefully
A8
We wanted to cheer you up as we'd heard you were feeling rather depressed. answer: (b) rather depressed
A9
I recommend you take out your loan now to take advantage of the reduced interest rate. answer: (a) reduced
A10 If you invest in the financial markets you must expect the decreases as well as the highs in the income. answer: (c) decreases
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 19 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Hot expressions A1
They just sit around, discuss nothing in particular and just produce empty talk. answer: (c) empty talk
A2
As soon as they heard the news, they didn't hesitate and drove very quickly to the hospital. answer: (a) very quickly
A3
He can never wait for the next issue of his favourite magazine and likes to get a copy that's just printed. answer: (d) just printed
A4
I'm not quite sure how to handle the problem at the moment as it's not easy to explain a sort of delicate situation. answer: (b) delicate situation
A5
Whenever there was a war zone that needed covering, the paper always sent their most experienced reporter. answer: (d) war zone
A6
He'd only been in his new job three days when he found himself in in trouble for something he'd done wrong. answer: (c) in trouble
A7
Have you seen that long queue outside the supermarket? Whatever they're selling is selling very well. answer: (d) selling very well
A8
In order to provide training for the staff in the department everyone had to experience responsibility. answer: (a) experience responsibility
A9
I thought he was going to burst with anger because he was getting very angry. answer: (c) very angry
A10 The one thing you mustn't do is be late because the boss is very strict about punctuality. answer: (a) strict about
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 20 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Comparisons with as .... as A1
After a good night's sleep she woke feeling bright and cheerful. answer: (b) bright and cheerful
A2
It was a serious operation but he made a complete recovery and was soon in good health. answer: (d) in good health
A3
When she left school, she found she could do what she liked and be totally free. answer: (a) totally free
A4
Suddenly the car leant to one side and when he got out, he saw there was no air in one tyre that was completely flat. answer: (b) completely flat
A5
The baby sitter had no problem with the children because they were well behaved the whole evening. answer: (c) well behaved
A6
He wanted to make sure that his car looked good and so he made sure it was spotless before he sold it. answer: (d) spotless
A7
The one thing you could be sure of was that he would not behave in a normal way he was in fact completely mad. answer: (b) completely mad
A8
We really didn't expect to see him at all that night but then suddenly he appeared in person. answer: (c) in person
A9
You could always rely on her because in any situation she stayed totally dependable. answer: (a) totally dependable
A10 As he was very strong, he was able to lift the carriage up and let the trapped man out. answer: (b) very strong
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 21 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Expressions with make A1
Their big ambition in life was to choose the right moment to sell their shares ad then make a lot of money. answer: (c) make a lot of money
A2
They've tried hard to increase their profits in the business but so far are not really progressing. answer: (a) not really progressing
A3
The shock was so great it frightened you. answer: (d) frightened you
A4
I reckon when they sold that lovely big house it must have provided them with a huge sum of money. answer: (b) provided them with a huge sum of money
A5
Ignore his comments it's not really that bad, he's simply exaggerating. answer: (c) exaggerating
A6
We've lost a lot of money and have little income and so we're finding it difficult to survive. answer: (d) survive
A7
I'll come straight to the point and tell you exactly what I think. answer: (a) come straight to the point
A8
It seems a sound project with potential and so I advise you to make an offer for it. answer: (c) make an offer for it
A9
If I were you, I would stop worrying about it and simply have fun while you can. answer: (b) have fun
A10 Don't take too much notice of what he's saying, he's just making a fuss. answer: (a) making a fuss
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 22 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Egg expressions A1
I'm pretty certain but perhaps I wouldn't go as far as saying I'm absolutely sure. answer: (d) absolutely sure
A2
I know you didn't exactly push him into accepting the offer but you must admit you did encourage him. answer: (c) did encourage him
A3
You've always stood by him in all his bad habits but underneath I think he's a worthless person. answer: (b) worthless person
A4
First he agreed and then he disagreed. The result was he ended up looking foolish. answer: (a) looking foolish
A5
You've got to learn to diversify and not to rely on just one scheme. answer: (c) to rely on just one scheme
A6
She wasn't really successful in her first stage play. In fact you could say she she gave an embarrassing performance. answer: (d) she gave an embarrassing performance
A7
It was a bit like teaching someone who was more experienced than he when the young director was showing the veteran actress how to act. answer: (a) teaching someone who was more experienced than he
A8
They told her to put some money aside each month so she would have a savings account. answer: (b) a savings account
A9
We all advised him to make sure he got payment and didn't accept just a promise of money. answer: (c) accept just a promise of money
A10 You'll need all your tact in this situation and you'll have to be very sensitive. answer: (b) be very sensitive
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 23 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Idioms with prepositions A1
It's a long time since those days long ago when you could leave your front door unlocked. answer: (b) a long time since
A2
I wish you would stop talking and let me finish speaking. answer: (d) let me finish speaking
A3
It's not impossible you couldn't pass your exam if you really tried. answer: (c) It's not impossible
A4
We haven't seen him for ages but he turns up very rarely. answer: (a) very rarely
A5
It's almost impossible trying to get him to see sense because he takes no notice. answer: (b) almost impossible
A6
He seriously believes that we think he's stupid but we really don't. answer: (d) He seriously believes
A7
We thought it would all go off very well but in the end it turned out to be a failure. answer: (b) failure
A8
I know you're keen but I don't want you to start too soon. Just relax. answer: (c) start too soon
A9
Count to ten before you say anything and don't lose your temper. answer: (d) lose your temper
A10 It's like there's nobody there because you never get an answer from her. answer: (a) there's nobody there
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 24 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Idioms with phrasal verbs A1
You certainly couldn't call him modest because he's always saying how clever he is. answer: (c) saying how clever he is
A2
You can always rely on him to make things go wrong and suddenly everything stops. answer: (a) make things go wrong
A3
He tried and tried and tried but in the end he decided the time had come to stop trying. answer: (d) stop trying
A4
My advice is to stop worrying about it and make an effort. answer: (b) make an effort
A5
We've had a lovely time and walked a long way but I think it's time to stop. answer: (c) stop
A6
I just can't open this tin at all and I always find this type of container really annoying. answer: (a) really annoying
A7
To be honest he leads a miserable life because he works all the time and has no friends. answer: (b) a miserable life
A8
The one thing you can be sure of is that whatever the situation she'll commit a social blunder and embarrass everyone. answer: (c) commit a social blunder
A9
That sort of joke never makes people laugh and on this occasion it went down very badly. answer: (d) very badly
A10 Before the meeting officially starts I'd like to mention one or two points. answer: (b) mention
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 25 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Mark Idioms A1
He's not really doing anything serious at the moment because he's just waiting for the right opportunity until he finds a proper job. answer: (c) waiting for the right opportunity
A2
You listen to me carefully you do as I say and you'll be all right. answer: (b) listen to me carefully
A3
The dancers were lost marks in the competition because the man fell over half way through. answer: (a) lost marks
A4
There wasn't much time to waste and in order to secure a place, you had to be be first in the queue. answer: (c) be first in the queue
A5
When you look back over her lifetime you can see that she will be remembered. answer: (b) be remembered
A6
From an early age he was destined to become leader of his party. answer: (d) destined
A7
They were very fussy about their products and any item not of a high standard was discarded. answer: (c) of a high standard
A8
Take no notice of what he said because his comments are irrelevant. answer: (a) irrelevant
A9
As they were not ready on time, they missed some of the good bargains. answer: (d) not ready on time
A10 Pay attention. The race is about to begin. Be prepared, get ready, start. answer: (c) Be prepared
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 26 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Retail Sales Expressions A1
I went to BuyLots and bought a computer on payment plan. answer: (c) payment plan
A2
The best time to go shopping in the USA is the day after Thanksgiving, because all stores reduce their prices. answer: (a) reduce
A3
Nowadays, lots of people buy products over the Internet. answer: (c) buy
A4
It's really important to keep a proof of purchase of the products you buy in case you need to return or exchange them. answer: (b) proof of purchase
A5
When I first moved to the USA and didn't have a bank account, I used order of payment issued by a bank to pay my rent. answer: (a) order of payment issued by a bank
A6
Thanks for buying at Build-a-Monster, your product will be mailed in 1 to 2 business days. Have a nice day! answer: (d) mailed
A7
My son would love to have a Buzz Lightmonth toy for his birthday. Do you have any at your store? — Sorry, ma'am. They are not available. answer: (c) not available
A8
Excuse me, sir. I would like a reimburse on these shoes, please. They don't fit me. — Sorry, ma'am. We can't do that. answer: (b) a reimburse
A9
Melinda bought a Plasma TV with a one year guarantee. answer: (a) guarantee
A10 Mr. Thompson only buys things that are inexpensive. answer: (c) inexpensive
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 27 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
American Slang Words (1) A1
I feel really good about this class. I'm going to do well or excel in the exam tomorrow. answer: (b) do well or excel in
A2
His mom was really angry because he got home late last night. answer: (a) angry
A3
Johnny has a really talkative nature and doesn't keep secrets well. You can't tell him anything or the whole world will know about it. answer: (a) talkative nature and doesn't keep secrets well
A4
Our manager made a big fuss about the slight decrease in sales last month. answer: (b) big fuss
A5
Richard received a large inheritance last year but he spent all of his money on silly things and now he's broke. answer: (a) spent all of his money
A6
Kathy was ready to lose her temper when she found out someone stole her patent idea. answer: (c) lose her temper
A7
The college students went out to a club last night and got drunk because the school year ended. answer: (a) got drunk
A8
The class acted in a wild, crazy manner as soon as the teacher left the room. answer: (a) acted in a wild, crazy manner
A9
Christie fell down and got a bruise on her arm so she cried until her mother picked her up. answer: (b) bruise
A10 If Randy doesn't become aware of his situation, he'll fail the entire school year. answer: (a) become aware of his situation
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 28 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
American Slang Words (2) A1
Lauren moved to Los Angeles to become an actress. Now, she's working as a waitress and waiting for a great opportunity to further her career. answer: (c) a great opportunity to further her career
A2
I don't have any money on me. Can I borrow a dollar? answer: (c) dollar
A3
Rowan is really depressed about the break-up. She always looks so sad and apathetic. answer: (a) sad and apathetic
A4
Jeff really wanted to play at the basketball game last night but his coach forced him to sit and watch the game for bad behavior this past week. answer: (b) forced him to sit and watch the game
A5
I can't wait for our vacation next month. I'm going to sit on the beach to get a suntan. answer: (c) get a suntan
A6
I'm so tired. I'm going home to get some sleep. I'll call you tomorrow. answer: (c) get some sleep
A7
He'll never go for that. It's too expensive and he's so stingy. answer: (a) stingy
A8
We went to the Grand Buffet this past weekend. They have really good food and I can't wait to eat a lot. answer: (a) eat a lot
A9
Don't let him swindle or manipulate you. He's only using you because he wants you to give him some money. answer: (a) swindle or manipulate
A10 Dean has turned into such a lazy person. He sits in front of the TV all night long. answer: (a) a lazy person
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 29 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
American Slang Words (3) A1
Why don't you open that bottle of wine so we can start celebrating your promotion. answer: (b) open that bottle
A2
Sally had poor study habits so she had to study really hard in a short period of time for her chemistry exam. answer: (b) study really hard in a short period of time
A3
Tanya's job is really good with great benefits. She gets a lot of time off and doesn't work very hard at all. answer: (a) good with great benefits
A4
Notre Dame is going to defeat the other team because they're strong and well-organized this year. answer: (b) defeat
A5
The food was so good. Now, can you ask for the bill so we can see what the cost of the meal is? answer: (a) cost of the meal
A6
I don't want to come to this club ever again. It's always boring and there aren't many patrons. answer: (b) boring and there aren't many patrons
A7
Don't worry. Her husband will pay for the meal. He has a lot of money. answer: (c) a lot of money
A8
That movie was really sexually explicit. I don't think the kids should watch it. answer: (a) sexually explicit
A9
Karen got rid of her little sister so we could go to the year-end party. answer: (a) got rid of
A10 I don't want to hang out with Tom anymore. He's become a real boring and negative person. answer: (a) boring and negative person
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 30 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
American Slang Words (4) A1
Christine got an outpour of anger and complaints when she got home last night. Her parents lectured her about breaking curfews for more than an hour. answer: (a) an outpour of anger and complaints
A2
Normally, drug addicts need a dose of something they strongly crave in order to cope with their day once they are addicted to a particular drug. answer: (a) dose of something they strongly crave
A3
People say Lana is really unconventional and odd so she can't handle important projects at work. answer: (a) unconventional and odd
A4
When he saw the giant wheel at the fair, he instantly had a memory of a past incident reminiscent of his childhood. answer: (b) memory of a past incident
A5
My husband and I want to go watch that new movie/film. We heard it's pretty good. answer: (a) movie/film
A6
Laura got really upset when she heard about the tornado that hit her hometown. answer: (a) got really upset
A7
Some people say that my teacher is a physically attractive lady. answer: (c) physically attractive
A8
That vacation package to Puerto Vallarta was a bonus received without cost/charge when I bought the cruise line vacation package that starts out in Fort Lauderdale. answer: (a) a bonus received without cost/charge
A9
The computer system we use at work has a minor malfunction in it so we couldn't do any of our work today. The technician will be in tomorrow to fix it for us. answer: (b) minor malfunction
A10 Carmen told me the joke three times but I still didn't understand the joke. She has a very different sense of humor. answer: (b) didn't understand the joke
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 31 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
American Slang Words (5) A1
I was highly interested in art and writing when I was a child. answer: (a) was highly interested in
A2
Sharon was overly excited when she found out that she won a large shopping spree. answer: (b) was overly excited
A3
Jim thinks Las Vegas hotels are pretty extravagant and showy. answer: (b) extravagant and showy
A4
Karrie showed active support for her co-worker last week. Now, her boss wants to fire both of them. answer: (c) showed active support
A5
Laura got a big promotion last month and now the whole thing made her conceited and overconfident. answer: (b) made her conceited and overconfident
A6
After the tragic accident, Tyler was emotionally shattered. answer: (a) was emotionally shattered
A7
I really made a careless and silly mistake at work this week. Now, I have to work overtime, without pay, to fix it. answer: (a) made a careless and silly mistake
A8
Simon is notorious for being idle and wasting time at work. answer: (c) being idle and wasting time
A9
Tim just spent thirty thousand dollars on a new car last week. answer: (a) thousand dollars
A10 Our boss told Kevin to use his brain to solve the problem. answer: (c) use his brain
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 32 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
American Slang Words (6) A1
A lot of students at the high school across the street smoke marijuana during lunch hour. answer: (b) smoke marijuana
A2
Cathy is really happy at her new job. It's lucrative and easy. answer: (c) lucrative and easy
A3
I don't want that sandwich. It looks disgusting. answer: (a) disgusting
A4
Where should we go for some good food? answer: (b) food
A5
You've been very lazy this past semester. Now, you have to really work hard if you want to graduate in June. answer: (a) work hard
A6
My roommate usually looks pretty unclean and sloppy when she goes out. answer: (a) unclean and sloppy
A7
It takes a lot of courage to stand up for what you believe in; especially when your opinion is not a popular one. answer: (b) courage
A8
I don't like your jacket. It looks a little dirty. answer: (b) dirty
A9
That road was really dangerous. We should take another route next time. answer: (c) dangerous
A10 We have to sit down and quickly work out an agreement before the end of the week. answer: (b) quickly work out
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 33 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
American Slang Words (7) A1
Due to her nervous breakdown last year, Maggie has decided to quit her nursing career. answer: (a) quit
A2
Can you wait a moment please? I have to switch phones. answer: (c) wait a moment
A3
I like your friend. I got a really good feeling from her. answer: (c) feeling
A4
The neighbors across the street seem like they are financially stable. answer: (c) are financially stable
A5
Your new project was a success at the meeting on Friday. answer: (a) a success
A6
Oh, you don't know. He was fired because he was always late for work. answer: (b) was fired
A7
Those kids look intoxicated on drugs or alcohol. I think they were smoking pot earlier. answer: (a) intoxicated on drugs or alcohol
A8
The gang members hid for nearly three weeks because they are wanted on three counts of armed robbery. answer: (c) hid
A9
I don't know what to say. You'll have to speak with the boss about that. answer: (a) boss
A10 In order to succeed in the stock market, you have to be eager and highly motivated and business savvy. answer: (b) eager and highly motivated
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 34 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
American Slang Words (8) A1
Lisa has a very overly active son and she meets with his teacher a lot. answer: (a) overly active
A2
You really have to work hard and fast if you want to meet the deadline. answer: (b) work hard and fast
A3
Those colors are really stylish right now. A lot of people are using those shades in their homes. answer: (b) stylish
A4
She wears too much makeup and very revealing clothing. She looks like a prostitute at times. answer: (b) prostitute
A5
She's very attractive. A lot of guys at school like her. answer: (c) very attractive
A6
She's a very serious person. I think she needs to relax more. answer: (a) serious
A7
Don really got himself into a problematic situation this time. He needs help. answer: (a) problematic situation
A8
Isaac hung around with the wrong crowd and I'm afraid for him because he's seriously and deeply involved now. answer: (c) seriously and deeply involved
A9
In the past, people used to cause problems for me more. Nowadays, I put my foot down a lot more. answer: (b) cause problems for me
A10 Some of the girls at school like the athletic guys. answer: (a) athletic guys
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 35 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
American Slang Words (9) A1
I've had to go for an hour. Where's the bathroom? answer: (c) bathroom
A2
Kyle is in a lot of trouble. He's a drug addict and was caught stealing money last week. answer: (a) drug addict
A3
He just started his new job so he's still pretty naive. answer: (b) naive
A4
I know you're nervous but you have to stay calm right now. answer: (b) stay calm
A5
I enjoy my little nephew. He's a cute and funny little guy. answer: (a) enjoy
A6
Sandra is always falling and hurting herself. She's such a clumsy person. answer: (c) clumsy person
A7
This exotic meal is really good so don't judge or criticize until you try it. answer: (a) don't judge or criticize
A8
Emma was really skinny as a child but now she's a very attractive person. answer: (c) very attractive person
A9
John's classmate continually teased him until John gave him a punch in the face in the fourth grade. answer: (b) a punch in the face
A10 I don't like to walk around after dusk because of the weird people that seem to emerge at that time. answer: (a) weird people
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 36 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
American Slang Words (10) A1
I really like my brother-in-law because he's so relaxed and calm. answer: (c) relaxed and calm
A2
That story Greg told us is pretty inadequate. He's always late and he has a million excuses for his behavior. answer: (b) inadequate
A3
Some men use a lot of persuasive and complementary words to pick up girls at night clubs. answer: (a) persuasive and complementary words
A4
Sophie exercises every day but she still can't get rid of those rolls of fat around her stomach. answer: (a) rolls of fat around her stomach
A5
Whenever Tom begins a new job, he keeps to himself, at first, because he doesn't want to cause any problems. answer: (b) cause any problems
A6
Bette plays a highly-skilled game of hockey. She's in the female league and is the top-scorer. answer: (a) highly-skilled
A7
When Steven sold the rights to his unique and useful product, he made a lot of money. answer: (b) a lot of money
A8
Last month, Tim and Sherri reached the credit limits of their credit cards because he was laid-off earlier this year. answer: (a) reached the credit limits of
A9
Beth needs to relax more or she'll have a heart attack soon. answer: (a) relax more
A10 At work, a communication breakdown or collapse has taken place between the management and the workers. answer: (c) communication breakdown or collapse
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 37 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
American Slang Words (11) A1
My boss gave me a lot of silly and not useful work to do recently. I wish he would challenge me more. answer: (a) silly and not useful
A2
Ted is going to try to seduce Sandra at the party next week. answer: (a) try to seduce
A3
That movie we saw last night was pretty very emotional and tender. Did you like it? answer: (a) very emotional and tender
A4
I think that dresser is pretty good. I wish I could build something like that. answer: (c) good
A5
There are a lot of bad things about the new management team. answer: (b) bad things
A6
I'll leave the frozen dinner out for you and then you can heat it in the microwave when you get home. answer: (a) heat it in the microwave
A7
Most of my colleagues in the office think that Sarah is crazy and unstable. answer: (b) crazy and unstable
A8
Can you pick me up after work? Sure, it's no problem. answer: (b) no problem
A9
I love your new home. The location is great as well. answer: (a) home
A10 My new worker means well but sometimes he can be annoying. answer: (b) annoying
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 38 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
American Slang Words (12) A1
Tom loves to party and have a good time so he throws a lot of parties at his house. answer: (a) loves to party and have a good time
A2
Simon tried to seduce Nicole but she told him to get his hands off of her. answer: (c) hands
A3
Josephine works long hours for not a lot of money. She's going to ask for a raise soon. answer: (b) not a lot of money
A4
Rowan was completely drunk at the party on Friday. answer: (b) drunk
A5
I'm not worried about the exam next week. It's going to be easy. answer: (a) easy
A6
Laura's mother told her not to eat too much at the dinner party this coming weekend. answer: (a) to eat too much
A7
I'm starving. Let's get some pizza and eat a lot of food tonight. answer: (b) eat a lot of food
A8
We've been driving for a long time so we need to stop and go to the bathroom soon. answer: (a) stop and go to the bathroom
A9
Mathew usually drinks a lot and this weekend was no exception. He was intoxicated! answer: (c) intoxicated
A10 We've been working too hard lately. I'm very tired! answer: (c) very tired
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 39 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
American Slang Words (13) A1
Joanne wanted to hit her co-worker because of the insulting comments she made. answer: (c) hit
A2
You paid last time. Dinner is free because I want to pay for it this time. answer: (a) is free because I want to pay for it
A3
I'm going to recommend my cousin for the legal advice you need. He's a real professional and he'll give you the information you need. answer: (b) professional
A4
Are you mentally prepared for your role in the play on the weekend? We've been rehearsing for months and I can't believe the big night is almost here. answer: (a) mentally prepared for
A5
Our boss had a mental breakdown recently. He threatened to kill his family and now he's awaiting his trial in jail. answer: (a) had a mental breakdown
A6
She behaved very badly on the weekend. In fact, I think she's mentally ill and needs medical attention. answer: (a) mentally ill
A7
I'm not feeling well. I think I have food poisoning and I feel like I'm going to vomit. answer: (c) vomit
A8
Well, I had a great time tonight but I think I'm going to leave now. answer: (a) leave
A9
Tim's subordinate is very disruptive at meetings so it's hard to tell who the lead or boss is most days. answer: (b) lead or boss
A10 Sean needs to make easy money this month because he doesn't have enough money to cover his rent check. answer: (a) easy money
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 40 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
American Slang Words (14) A1
The teenagers next door make a lot of noise when their parents are out of town. answer: (c) make a lot of noise
A2
I'm so tired. I have to sleep for a while. answer: (a) sleep
A3
Let's meet on Friday. We need to talk about some things. answer: (a) talk
A4
You've been living in that old and run down home forever. When are you going to move into a nicer place? answer: (a) old and run down home
A5
At work, there are some new employees who think they can just do whatever they want. answer: (b) new
A6
Our supervisor yelled at him on Monday because his work is not acceptable. answer: (a) yelled at him
A7
The bank is threatening to repossess Liam's car because he's late on his payments. answer: (b) repossess
A8
That sitcom is very funny. My whole family watches it on Thursday evenings. answer: (a) very funny
A9
I really dislike people who aren't courteous and take up much of the roadway. They think they own the road. answer: (a) people who aren't courteous and take up much of the roadway
A10 Can I have a scotch with ice please? answer: (c) with ice
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 41 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
American Slang Words (15) A1
Kevin and his family have had a hard time since the recent stock market crash. answer: (b) hard time
A2
My professor lost his hair and now he wears a wig. answer: (a) wig
A3
There are a lot of children in our neighborhood. answer: (c) children
A4
My baby sister dominates the house. She's so spoiled! answer: (a) dominates
A5
We renovated our entire house and now we've lost our momentum so the outdoor patio area will have to wait until we recover. answer: (a) lost our momentum
A6
I've been working all day so I'm going to sleep early tonight. answer: (c) sleep
A7
Most pyramid schemes seem like big deceptive acts to me. answer: (a) deceptive acts
A8
The little boy was so hungry that he quickly ate his food in about twenty seconds. answer: (a) quickly ate
A9
Some young people think they can waste time at work and get paid for it. They are in for a big surprise. answer: (a) waste time
A10 Tom's boss warned him that if he makes a mistake one more time, he's going to fire him for good. answer: (b) makes a mistake
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 42 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
American Slang Words (16) A1
Ken is a very intelligent guy. He learns things very quickly. answer: (b) intelligent
A2
I didn't succeed the first time but I'm willing to give it another try. answer: (a) try
A3
My boss quickly disagreed with the idea I suggested at the meeting. He didn't even consider it for a moment. answer: (c) disagreed with
A4
The armed robbers were quickly apprehended and then thrown in prison. answer: (a) prison
A5
Heather was intoxicated at last year's Christmas party. Everyone is wondering if she'll do it again this year. answer: (a) intoxicated
A6
A loud noise frightened the horse and it quickly started galloping down the path. answer: (b) frightened
A7
My husband loves to eat potatoes. He could eat them all day long. answer: (b) potatoes
A8
I'm not impressed with the progress. The whole process is disgusting. answer: (a) is disgusting
A9
When the officer arrested the young boy, he asked him for a honest answer. answer: (b) honest
A10 My new job is really upsetting me. I think I'm going to look for a new one as soon as possible. answer: (a) upsetting me
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 43 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
American Slang Words (17) A1
I don't like my boss. I want to tell him to leave. answer: (c) leave
A2
I feel like such a gullible person. An acquaintance talked me into a pyramid scheme and I lost all of my savings. answer: (a) gullible person
A3
When Tim was on vacation, he lost a lot of money at a hotel casino. He'll never learn. answer: (b) lost
A4
I've been at the office a lot lately. I'm just doing what I have to do. answer: (b) doing what I have to do
A5
Marcel just bought some new clothes at that trendy store downtown. answer: (c) clothes
A6
I got into an accident on the weekend and my car was damaged beyond repair. answer: (a) damaged beyond repair
A7
We went to a flea market and everything was up available at good prices. answer: (c) available
A8
I'm so tired of renovating. I just want to do nothing and relax tonight. answer: (a) do nothing and relax
A9
I got a really good feeling from that guy. Let's call him again. answer: (c) feeling
A10 Why do you always carry that bundle of money around when everyone else uses debit cards these days? answer: (a) bundle of money
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 44 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
American Slang Words (18) A1
The gang leader told his followers to kill their rivals on the weekend. They are all wanted criminals now. answer: (a) kill
A2
Do you think I could borrow your car? I have an important appointment this afternoon. answer: (c) car
A3
My cousin is a computer wizard. He maintains my system for me. answer: (a) wizard
A4
I have to drink some coffee so I can be very alert before the big exam. answer: (c) be very alert
A5
Oh, stop being such a wimp. The bridge isn't even that high. answer: (b) wimp
A6
My niece said her food was bad. answer: (a) bad
A7
I can't do one more thing right now. I'm exhausted. answer: (b) exhausted
A8
Who wants some pizza? answer: (a) Who wants
A9
The door is in good shape. But, it does have a small scratch or dent in the lower left corner. answer: (b) small scratch or dent
A10 Nuclear weapons are very dangerous weapons. They could destroy mankind for good. answer: (b) Nuclear weapons
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 45 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Clothing Idioms (1) A1
That little boy cannot sit still. answer: (c) cannot sit still
A2
My teacher told me to put a lot of effort into this term. answer: (b) put a lot of effort into
A3
Bruce's last comment was unfair and cowardly. answer: (a) was unfair and cowardly
A4
At the meeting on Friday, the assistant manager made a silly, unprepared and spontaneous comment. answer: (c) unprepared and spontaneous
A5
I think her new boyfriend is pretending to be nice but is really dangerous. answer: (b) pretending to be nice but is really dangerous
A6
Bill's wife dresses too young for her age. answer: (a) dresses too young for her age
A7
Aurora wore her best clothes this weekend. answer: (c) wore her best clothes
A8
This information is very important. Don't tell anyone. answer: (a) Don't tell anyone
A9
Many people don't want to have their private affairs talked about in public. answer: (b) to have their private affairs talked about in public
A10 Sierra's dress fits her very well. answer: (a) fits her very well
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 46 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Clothing Idioms (2) A1
The new nightclub was very busy this past weekend. answer: (b) was very busy
A2
Joseph went to Reno and lost all of his money last month. answer: (c) lost all of his money
A3
Kevin is always broke because he spends his money quickly. answer: (a) he spends his money quickly
A4
Don't lose your temper! I'm going to tell you everything. answer: (b) Don't lose your temper
A5
Jeff just lost his job. I wouldn't want to be in his position. answer: (a) to be in his position
A6
However, when I asked him about his situation he told me not to worry because he has reserve plans that he stored and are available for future use. answer: (c) he has reserve plans that he stored and are available for future use
A7
Well, it's time to work hard! answer: (a) work hard
A8
After all these years, Teresa still hasn't seen her husband naked. answer: (c) naked
A9
Tara is the boss in her household. answer: (a) is the boss
A10 Will told his friend to keep a secret strictly confidential or else! answer: (a) keep a secret strictly confidential
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 47 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
House/Building Idioms (1) A1
The news about the tragic terrorist acts strongly affected us. answer: (b) strongly affected us
A2
My wife got really mad at me on the weekend and now I'm in trouble. answer: (c) in trouble
A3
My mother left for Europe on Friday. She asked me to be the temporary manager while she's away. answer: (a) be the temporary manager
A4
I don't like that joke. It was closely related to my inner feelings. answer: (a) was closely related to my inner feelings
A5
I always tell my friend to act like my home is her home when she comes over. answer: (a) act like my home is her home
A6
The restaurant owner was so happy and he announced that all drinks were free and paid for by the owner/restaurant. answer: (c) were free and paid for by the owner/restaurant
A7
The comedian was really funny. He received a lot of applause and praise on the weekend. answer: (a) received a lot of applause and praise
A8
Our neighbors talk about everyone but they don't realize that you shouldn't judge others when you do the same things they do. answer: (a) you shouldn't judge others when you do the same things they do
A9
When his father came home and saw the mess, he was enraged and grounded his son for one month. answer: (b) was enraged
A10 Megan doesn't like her regular or ordinary job. answer: (a) regular or ordinary
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English Idioms and Expressions / Advanced level # 48 (Answer Keys)
Questions Index
Food Idioms A1
I knew when Sandra told the lie that she would be admitting to her untrue claims later. answer: (b) admitting to her untrue claims
A2
Everyone knows that our math teacher behaves in a crazy manner. answer: (a) behaves in a crazy manner
A3
Jonathon asks for too much at work. He really wants to have extra privileges at work without giving up anything in return. answer: (c) have extra privileges at work without giving up anything in return
A4
Is it time for our short break from work? answer: (b) short break from work
A5
I love to sit around and talk or chat with old friends. answer: (c) talk or chat
A6
Nancy was forced to admit her mistake and humbly apologize when the manager caught her in a lie. answer: (a) admit her mistake and humbly apologize
A7
The new girl is always trying to gain favor by being really nice to the boss. Last week, she bought his son a new pair of designer shoes. answer: (b) trying to gain favor by being really nice
A8
Lilly is so skinny but she has a large appetite. answer: (a) has a large appetite
A9
Whenever Taylor invites a girl out to dinner, they share the bill. He likes it that way. answer: (c) share the bill
A10 Sally made her famous chocolate chip cookies without using prepared ingredients of any kind. answer: (b) without using prepared ingredients of any kind
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