English collocation and idioms – MS Huyen

KEY TO Questions for practice

Choose the best option to complete the following sentences
Question 1. I get quite depressed when I think about the damage we are _____ to the environment.
A. having B. taking C. making D. causing
Question 2. Unfortunately, we’ve made _____.
A. little progress B. a few progresses C. little progresses D. few progress
Question 3. I stayed there with her for a while before I left.
A. in the difficult time B. whenever she needed me
C. for relaxation D. for a short period of time
Question 4. I am glad that we see eye to eye on the matter of the conference location.
A. dislike B. agree C. disagree D. approve
Question 5. Although the new library service has been very successful, its future is _____ certain.
A. by all means B. by any chance C. at any rate D. by no means
Question 6. The hall was very crowded with over a hundred people _____into it.
A. stuck B. packed C. pushed D. stuffed
Question 7. The move into a different environment brought about a significant _____ in my cousin’s
state of mind.
A. influence B. impact C. change D. effect
Question 8. In order to avoid boredom, the most important thing is to keep oneself _____.
A. occupation B. occupied C. occupant D. occupation
Question 9. The human criterion for perfect vision is 20/20for reading the standard lines on Snellen eye
chart without a hitch.
A. unaided B. without glasses C. with little hesitation D. easily
Question 10. Cynthia was on edge all day about the important presentation she had to give to the local
citizen group.
A. nervous and excited B. doing well C. satisfied D. working hard
Question 11. After running up the stairs, I was _____ breath.
A. away from B. without C. no D. out of
Question 12. I’ve never really enjoyed going to the ballet or the opera; they are not really my _____.
A. piece of cake B. sweets and candy C. biscuit D. cup of tea
Question 13. The players’ protests _____ no difference to the referee’s decision at all.
A. did B. made C. caused D. created
Question 14. In a formal interview, it is essential to maintain good eye _____ with the interviewer.
A. link B. connection C. touch D. contact
Question 15. The poor child is in floods of _____ because of his bicycle had been stolen.
A. tears B. sorrow C. sadness D. upset
Question 16. _____ her inexperience, the failure to secure the contact was not surprising.
A. By virtue of B. With regard to C. In view of D. In recognition of
Question 17. During the medieval period, people were made public _____ of being witches.
A. complaint B. criminal C. trouble D. accusation
Question 18. That disable boy’s victory is the race set the _____ example to all students in the school.
A. finest B. first class C. rarest D. made convenient
Question 19. Thanks to the help of the teacher, she is _____ encouraging progress in math.
A. doing B. making C. checking D. stopping
Question 20. She’s down-to-earth woman with no pretensions.
A. ambitious B. creative C. idealistic D. practical
Question 21. There has been a hot debate among the scientists relating to the pros-and-cons of using
robotic probes to study distant objects in space.
A. problems and solutions B. advantages and disadvantages
C. solutions and limitations D. causes and effect
Question 22. Poaching _____ the greatest threat to many species.
A. creates B. presents C. poses D. produces
Question 23. The tigers _____ of extinction. It is difficult to find them in the wild.
A. on the wing B. on the rocks C. on the verge D. on the ground
Question 24. It is not always easy to _____ the difference between fact and opinion.
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A. make B. say C. do D. tell

 English collocation and idioms – MS Huyen

Question 25. In my _____, freedom of the press must be maintained.

A. mind B. sight C. view D. thought
Question 26. The issue _____ question is more complex than you think.
A. in B. from C. on D. at
Question 27. The situation got out of hand when the festival organisers couldn’t foresee that the mob
would get angry because they were stopped from taking the offerings.
A. hard to complete B. difficult to control
C. impossible to find D. unlikely to happen
Question 28. Once you have been accepted as a pupil or students at the school or college, it’s the law
for them to discriminate against you because of your religion or belief.
A. in B. for C. out of D. against
Question 29. Integration and assimilation can help reduce feelings of loss and grief as the migrants
start to incorporate aspects of the majority culture.
A. disadvantage B. disapproval C. discrimination D. sadness
Question 30. He said he was only joking, but his comments were so close to the bone.
A. annoying B. offensive C. personal D. respectful
Question 31. Ten million text messages are sent on _____ every minute.
A. account B. average C. common D. general
Question 32. Unluckily, David’s dangerous and incredible journey in search of the Blue Fairy is in _____.
A. advance B. danger C. end D. vain
Question 33. Most scientists believe that the day when robots become part of our lives will come _____.
A. from time to time B. more or less C. sooner or later D. later than never
Question 34 Researchers have _____ to the conclusion that your personality is affected by your genes.
A. arrived B. come C. got D. reached
Question 35. The telescope will photograph distant galaxies, _____ attempt to understand their past.
A. in B. for C. on D. with
Question 36. It is likely that artificial intelligence might decide to _____ an end to humanity simply
because it surpasses human intelligence.
A. come B. make C. put D. take
Question 37. I don’t think people should be allowed to _____ experiments on animals.
A. create B. make C. perform D. produce
Question 38. Many materials have been used for _____ teeth, including wood.
A. artificial B. hand-made C. false D. natural
Question 39. A.I. techniques help medical doctors to discover subtle interactions between medications
that put patients in jeopardy because of their serious side effects.
A. at risk B. in reality C. under control D. under pressure
Question 40. The purpose of running a business is to make a _____.
A. service B. profit C. money D. contribution
Question 41. She is doing well so she was promoted last year. Now she’s in charge of a small team of
4 people.
A. controls B. supervises C. takes over D. rules
Question 42. I’ve been working here for over ten years now and I’m on first name term with everyone,
even the CEO.
A. getting on B. happy
C. have an informal/friendly relationship D. satisfied
Question 43. Janes used to be very excellent as a child and now she’s the CEO of a big multi-national
company. However, her brother is a blue-collar worker in a small local factory.
A. mental B. low-paid C. manual D. regular
Question 44. When applying for a certain job, you’ll be ay an advantage if you have hands-on
experience.
A. relevant B. prior C. practical D. considerable
Question 45. When the factory closed, over a hundred people were made redundant.
A. fired B. sacked C. laid off D. appointed
Question 46. I am writing in _____ to you advertisement on Vietnamwork.com for the post of a personal
assistant.
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A. connection B. association C. relation D. response

Question 47. I’d like to speak to the person in _____ please.
 English collocation and idioms – MS Huyen

A. duty B. responsibility C. obligation D. charge

Question 48. I would be grateful for an opportunity to visit your company and discuss my application
with you _____.
A. in privacy B. individually C. privately D. in person
Question 49. Like many young people today, I’m thinking about taking a year _____ first, or as people
often say, spending a year at “the university of life.”
A. off B. away C. out D. at
Question 50. The atmosphere at work was so bad that Brian eventually decided to hand in his notice.
A. notify the boss B. apply for another job C. give up his job D. be given
a better job
Question 51. My boss has a reputation for being such a slave driver.
A. working overtime B. working excessively hard
C. being slave to work D. making his staff to work hard
Question 52. We want to recruit the brightest and the best. If you think you fit the bill fill in an
application form today.
A. are able to pay the bill B. are suitable
C. are on the right size D. are excellent
Question 53. I’d go mad if I had to do a dead-end job like working on a supermarket checkout.
A. demanding B. monotonous C. fascinating D. boring
Question 54. Steve _____ his chances of passing by spending too much time on the first question.
A. threw away B. threw in C. threw of D. threw out
Question 55. After congratulating his team, the coach left, allowing the players to let their _____ down
for a while.
A. hearts B. hair C. souls D. heads
Question 56. Making mistake is all _____ of growing up.
A. bits and bobs B. odds and ends C. part and parcel D. top and bottom
Question 57. The judge _____ murderer to a lifetime imprisonment.
A. prosecuted B. sentenced C. convicted D. accused
Question 58. Alice said: “That guy is _____ gorgeous. I wish he would ask me out.”
A. dead-centre B. drop shot C. jumped-up D. drop-dead
Question 59. The situation seems to be changing minute _____ minute.
A. by B. to C. and D. in
Question 60. Jose had a hard time comparing the iPhone to the Samsung phone because to him they
were apples and oranges.
A. containing too many technical details B. very similar
C. completely different D. very complicated
Question 61. The party leader travelled the length and _____ of the country in an attempt to spread
his message.
A. width B. distance C. diameter D. breadth
Question 62. Vietnam U23 made not only Saia but also Europe keep a close eye on them. They _____
internationally.
A. have made headlines B. had made headlines
C. have done headlines D. did headlines
Question 63. If we didn’t _____ any measures to protect whales, they would disappear forever.
A. use B. make C. take D. do
Question 64. It is the _____ of stupidity to go walking in the mountains in this weather.
A. height B. depth C. source D. matter
Question 65. The works of such men as the English philosophers John Locke and Thomas Hobbes help
pave the way for academic freedom in the modern sense.
A. terminate B. prevent C. enhance D. incorporate
Question 66. Since the death of Laura’s father, her mother has become a breadwinner to support the
family.
A. a person who bakes bread every morning B. a bakery owner
C. a person who delivers bread to make money
D. a person who goes out to work to earn money
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Question 67. Peter is the black sheep of the family, so he is never welcomed there.
A. a beloved member B. a bad and embarrassing member
 English collocation and idioms – MS Huyen

C. the only child D. the eldest child

Question 68. Both universities speak _____ of the programme of student exchange and hope to
cooperate more in the future.
A. highly B. quickly C. rapidly D. fast
Question 69. On hearing that she failed the entrance exam, Trang couldn’t help _____ into tears.
A. bursting B. burst C. to bursting D. to burst
Question 70. She didn’t enjoy her first year at college because she failed to _____ her new friends.
A. come in for B. look down on C. go down with D. get on with
Question 71. The world work is developing quickly. If you don’t self-learn continuously, we will no _____
social movements.
A. put up with B. keep up with C. get on with D. deal with
Question 72. He has been waiting for this letter for days, and at _____ it has come.
A. the end B. last C. the moment D. present
Question 73. There’s a list of repairs as long as _____.
A. your arm B. a pole C. your arms D. a mile
Question 74. I tried to talk to her, but she was as high as a _____.
A. kite B. house C. sky D. wall
Question 75. The jury _____ her compliments _____ her excellent knowledge of the subject.
A. returned/to B. paid/to C. returned/on D. paid/on
Question 76. You may note down your qualifications and experience that can relate to the job.
A. put down B. hold down C. draw down D. jot down
Question 77. Many large corporations will be wiped out and millions of jobs will be lost.
A. escalated B. erased C. threatened D. eradicated
Question 78. On the whole, the rescue mission was well executed.
A. In fact B. In particular C. At once D. In general
Question 79. It’s difficult to tell him to give in because he is so big-headed.
A. wise B. generous C. modest D. arrogant
Question 80. With this type of insurance, you’re buying _____ of mind.
A. peace B. satisfaction C. calmness D. contentment
Question 81. We’re over the _____! Who wouldn’t be? We’ve just won £1 million.
A. planets B. clouds C. stars D. moon
Question 82. Of course you’ll pass. You write well and you have an excellent _____ of the subject.
A. grip B. seizure C. grasp D. embrace
Question 83. I told you clearly and definitely not to write your answers in pencil, Tom.
A. considerably B. thoroughly C. altogether D. specifically
Question 84. As a newspaper reporter, she always wanted to get information at first hand.
A. indirectly B. directly C. easily D. slowly
Question 85. Could you _____ me a lift into town?
A. give B. get C. do D. make
Question 86. Britain’s Prime Minister Theresa May was the first world leader to pay a _____ Trump at
the White House after his inauguration last year.
A. visited B. visiting C. visit to D. visit
Question 87. Vietnam reached the semi-finals of the AFC U23 Championship2018 with a penalty
shootout win _____ Iraq On Saturday, January 20th.
A. over B. with C. against D. in
Question 88. If we use robots instead of humans, many people may be out of work.
A. employed B. jobless C. inemployed D. unemployed
Question 89. It was no accident that he broke my glasses. He did it _____ purpose.
A. with B. on C. by D. about
Question 90. I read the contract again _____ avoiding making spelling mistakes.
A. in terms of B. by means of C. with a view to D. in view of
Question 91. It’s no use talking to me about metaphysics. It’s a closed book to me.
A. a subject that I don’t understand B. a theme that I like to discuss
C. a book that is never opened D. an object that I really love
Question 92. Her outgoing character contrasts _____ with that of her sister.
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A. thoroughly B. fully C. sharply D. coolly

Question 93. Learning Spanish isn’t difficult once you _____.
 English collocation and idioms – MS Huyen

A. get away with it B. get off it C. get down to it D. get on it

Question 94. Please don’t _____a word of this to anyone else, it’s highly confidential.
A. speak B. pass C. mutter D. breathe
Question 95. You never really know where you are with her as she just blows hot and cold.
A. keeps going B. keeps taking things
C. keep changing her mood D. keep testing
Question 96. - “Edward seems like a dog with two tails this morning.”
- ”Haven’t you heard the news? His wife gave birth a baby boy early this morning.”
A. extremely happy B. extremely disappointed
C. exhausted D. very proud
Question 97. Ann always made _____ in everything she has done.
A. fit B. perfect C. good D. excellent
Question 98. In spite of his poverty, he led a devoted life to the revolutionary _____.
A. aim B. goal C. cause D. reason
Question 99. She simply took it for granted that the check was good and did not ask him any question
about it.
A. permitted it B. accepted it without investigation
C. objected to it D. looked it over
Question 100. My uncle was _____ ill last summer; however, fortunately, he is now making a slow but
steady recovery.
A. seriously B. deeply C. fatally D. critically
Question 101. This is _____ the most difficult job I’ve ever had to do.
A. by chance B. by myself C. by far D. by heart
Question 102. Before the mid-nineteenth century, people in the United States ate most food only _____
season.
A. in B. out C. out of D. along
Question 103. Josh may get into hot water when driving at full speed drinking.
A. get into trouble B. stay safe C. fall into disuse D. remain calm
Question 104. Through he had known about it well in _____, he pretended to be surprised at having a
birthday party.
A. advance B. addition C. contrast D. general
Question 105. Thomas knows Paris like the back of his _____. He used to be a taxi driver there for 2
years.
A. head B. mind C. hand D. life
Question 106. In a modern family, the husband is expected to join hands with his wife to _____ the
household chores.
A. do B. make C. run D. take
Question 107. While everyone else in this class prefers working in groups, Alice likes working _____.
A. on her own B. of her own C. on herself D. in herself
Question 108. Reaching 35 and obviously aging, Jane has to make up her mind on her future very
soon.
A. give a thought about B. pay attention to
C. prepare a plan for D. make a decision on
Question 109. –“Well, cats are very good at catching mice around the house.” –“_____.”
A. Nothing more to say B. You can say that again
C. Yes, I hope so D. No, dogs are very good too.
Question 110. My wife was so keen on the picture that she paid through her _____ for it.
A. eyes B. ears C. head D. nose
Question 111. She _____ him for her father’s death.
A. accused B. charged C. complained D. blamed
Question 112. He left the country _____ arrest if he returned.
A. in fear of B. under threat of C. with fear of D. with threat of
Question 113. He was a natural singer with a voice that was as clear as _____.
A. a bell B. a mirror C. a waterfall D. a lake
Question 114. He may be shy now, but he will soon come out of his _____ when he meets the right
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girl.
A. shoe B. hole C. shed D. shell
 English collocation and idioms – MS Huyen

Question 115. It’s not easy to make Lisa furious. The girl is very gentle by _____.
A. herself B. nature C. personality D. reaction
Question 116. The human criterion for perfect vision is 20/20 for reading the standard line on a Snellen
eye chart _____ a hitch.
A. without B. with C. on D. of
Question 117. Although the teacher has done his best to help all students, none of them made any
effort on their part.
A. made B. tried C. attempted D. taken
Question 118. Sarah goes to the theatre once in a _____ moon.
A. red B. green C. blue D. light
Question 119. Dr. Evans has _____ a valuable contribution to the life of the school.
A. done B. created C. caused D. made
Question 120. Sportsmen _____ their political differences on the sports fields.
A. take part B. put aside C. take place D. put apart
Question 121. Looking down at the coral reef, we saw _____ of tiny, multi-coloured fish.
A. teams B. flocks C. shoals D. swarms
Question 122. A bridge must be strong enough to support its own weight _____ the weight of the
people and vehicles that use it.
A. as far as B. as long as C. so well as D. as well as
Question 123. When finding a new house, parents should _____ all the conditions for their children’s
education and entertainment.
A. take into account B. take actions C. put pressure D. put up with
Question 124. You have to be on your toes if you want to beat her.
A. pay all attention to what you are doing B. upset he in what she is doing
C. get involved in what she is doing D. make her comply with your orders
Question 125. In _____ age of computers, it is difficult to imagine how tedious work of accountants
and clerks must have been in the past.
A. that B. the C. this D. its
Question 126. Since he failed his exam, he had to _____ for it again.
A. pass B. make C. take D. sit
Question 127. John paid $2 for his meal, _____ he had thought it would cost.
A. not as much B. not so much as C. less at D. not so many as
Question 128. It is very important for a firm or a company to keep _____ the changes of the market.
A. pace of B. track about C. touch with D. up with
Question 129. I am sure you’ll have no _____ the exam.
A. difficulty passing B. difficulties to pass C. difficulty to pass D. difficulties of passing
Question 130. My brother left his job last week because he did not have any _____ to travel.
A. position B. chance C. ability D. location
Question 131. The noise from the nearby factory kept me _____.
A. awake B. awakened C. waking D. woken
Question 132. Make sure you _____ us a visit when you are in town again.
A. pay B. have C. give D. do
Question 133. I used to run a mile before breakfast but now I am _____.
A. not used to it B. no longer practice it
C. of out practice D. out of the habit
Question 134. The government is determined to _____ terrorism.
A. put the stop to B. put stop to C. put stops to D. put a stop to
Question 135. Liquid milk is usually pasteurized in order to kill bacteria for a longer _____.
A. expectancy B. production C. living D. shelf life
Question 136. The majority of people accept that modern drugs are the most effective way to cure a(n)
_____.
A. sicken B. illness C. symptom D. treatment
Question 137. We are going to build a fence around the field with _____ to breeding sheep and castle.
A. a goal B. an outlook C. a reason D. a view
Question 138. The meeting didn’t _____ until late.
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A. end up B. break up C. come about D. fall through

Question 139. Fiona is very angry _____ her boss’ decision to sack several members of a staff.
 English collocation and idioms – MS Huyen

A. against B. by C. for D. about

Question 140. When his parents are away, his oldest brother _____.
A. knocks it off B. calls the shots C. draws the line D. is in the same boat
Question 141. I am glad I was able to be there for my friend when her mom died.
A. to offer support in time of need for B. to cry with
C. to travel with D. to visit
Question 142. When you consider all the advantages you’ve gained I think you’ll admit you had a good
_____ for your money.
A. profit B. benefit C. run D. term
Question 143. The teacher at this school _____ with flu one after another.
A. went down B. went off C. went out D. went under
Question 144. Can I _____ our brain for a moment? I can’t do this crossword by myself.
A. use B. have C. mind D. pick
Question 145. The detective was asked to probe into the mysterious disappearance of the painting.
A. investigate B. procure C. recover D. relinquish
Question 146. The piece of work is urgent and must be done _____ delay.
A. with B. no C. not D. without
Question 147. These machines are older models and have to be operated by hand.
A. mechanically B. manually C. automatically D. spiritually
Question 148. Toxic chemical from factories are one of the serious factors that leads wildlife to the
_____ of extinction.
A. wall B. fence C. verge D. bridge
Question 149. When old Mr. Barnaby died, several people _____ their claim to the substantial legacy
he left.
A. placed B. drew C. assumed D. laid
Question 150. Hearing about people who mistreat animals makes me go hot under the _____.
A. chin B. collar C. sleeves D. vest
Question 151. You look really tired. You could _____ a week’s holiday, I think.
A. do with B. make for C. pass for D. make with
Question 152. The local press has been pouring _____ on the mayor for dissolving the council.
A. scorn B. blame C. disapproval D. hatred
Question 153. Quite soon, the world’s going to _____ energy resources.
A. get into B. run out of C. keep up with D. come up against
Question 154. I know you are upset about breaking up with Tom, but there are plenty more _____.
A. horses in the stable B. cows in the shed C. tigers in the jungle D. fish in the sea
Question 155. It’s no good pretending; you’ve got to _____ reality.
A. get down to B. bargain for C. come up against D. face up to
Question 156. It was so foggy that the driver couldn’t _____ the traffic signs.
A. break out B. keep out C. make out D. take out
Question 157. I’ll have to go to the funeral of Ms. Jane, a _____ of mine.
A. heart to heart B. body and soul C. flesh and blood D. skin and bones
Question 158. I’m sorry you’ve decided not to go with us on the river trip, but _____ you change your
mind, there will still be enough room on the boat for you.
A. in the event that B. nevertheless C. even though D. provided that
Question 159. There were so many members of the political party who had gone against the leader
that he resigned.
A. apposed B. insisted C. invited D. opposed
Question 160. Although Mike graduated with a good degree, he joined the _____ of the unemployed.
A. ranks B. queues C. lines D. forces
Question 161. The food was so delicious that I had a second _____.
A. plate B. serving C. helping D. time
Question 162. David was narrowly defeated and blew his own chances of becoming a champion.
A. missed B. lost C. flew D. run
Question 163. His success lay in natural ability, not in his determination to _____ personal goals.
A. follow B. pursue C. seeks D. do
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Question 164. My father is getting old and forgetful. _____, he is experienced and helpful.
A. Be that as it may B. Regardless C. Lest D. Consequently
 English collocation and idioms – MS Huyen

Question 165. I’m not going to go ice skating! I’d only fall over and _____ a fool of myself.
A. create B. show C. do D. make
Question 166. Silence _____ the theatre as the audience awaited the opening curtain with expectation
and excitement.
A. fell in with B. came between C. hung over D. dropped out of
Question 167. When the kids asked him about his girlfriend, he’d go red as a _____.
A. tomato B. chili C. strawberry D. beetroot
Question 168. As orders are becoming more and more, we’ve been rushed off our feet all week.
A. very angry B. very busy C. very worried D. very happy
Question 169. The minister came under fire for his rash decision to close the factory.
A. was dismissed B. was acclaimed C. was criticized D. was penalized
Question 170. “What I’ve got to say to you now is strictly _____ the record and most certainly not for
publication.”
A. in B. on C. off D. out
Question 171. I can’t give you the answer on the _____; I’ll have to think about it for a few days.
A. place B. minute C. scene D. spot
Question 172. I find myself _____ a loss to understand Harold’s behavior.
A. at B. in C. out D. for
Question 173. Someone is going to have to take responsibility for this disaster. Who’s going to _____.
A. foot the bill B. carry the can C. hatch the chicken D. catch the worms
Question 174. When the police arrived, the thieves _____ to flight leaving all stolen things behind.
A. brought B. took C. made D. did
Question 175. My friend is good at mimicking people. He _____ a great impression of Charlie Chaplin.
A. made B. did C. took D. gave
Question 176. You can ask Martin anything about history. He actually has quite a good _____ for facts.
A. head B. ability C. knowledge D. understanding
Question 177. It was such a sad film that we all were reduced _____ tears at the end.
A. with B. onto C. to D. into
Question 178. The baby can’t even sit up yet, _____ stand and walk.
A. but for B. let alone C. all but D. rather than.
Question 179. Unfortunately, the injury may keep him out of football _____ . He may ever play again.
A. for good B. now and then C. once in a while D. every so often
Question 180. I used to _____ reading comics, but now I’ve grown out of it.
A. take a fancy to B. keep an eye on C. get a kick out of D. kick up a fuss about
Question 181: Little Deon: "This herb smells horrible, mommy!”
Mommy: "_______, it will do you a power of good,”
A. Come what may B. By the by C. What is more D. Be that as it may
Question 182: You should take out insurance _______ your house from any possible damage.
Earthquakes sometimes occur here.
A. on B. in C. for D. at
Question 183: The children were full of beans today, looking forward to their field trip.
A. eating a lot B. hyperactive C. melancholy D. lively and in high spirits
Question 184: Sometimes in a bad situation, there may still be some good things. Try not to "throw
out the_______ with the bathwater”.
A. fish B. duck C. baby D. child
Question 185: There are so many _______ names now that it is impossible to remember them all.
A. brand B. model C. trademark D. logo
Question 186: The government has launched a new road safety campaign in an _______ to reduce the
number of road accidents.
A. attempt B. effort C. try D. allowance
Question 187: How many people do you know who are _______ medication to prevent anxiety or
depression?
A. in B. on C. at D. off
Question 188: My cousin was nervous about being interviewed on television, but he _______to the
occasion wonderfully.
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A. raised B. rose C. fell D. faced

Question 189: Wendy is on the_______ of a dilemma: she just wonders whether to go for a picnic with
 English collocation and idioms – MS Huyen

her friends or to stay at home with her family.

A. horns B. corns C. torns D. forns
Question 190: His girlfriend’s behavior at the party was _______, which made everyone there shocked.
A. out of practice B. out of line C. out of the habit D. out of sight
Question 191: At every faculty meeting, Ms. Volatie always manages to put her foot in her mouth.
A. move rapidly B. trip over her big feet C. fall asleep D. say the wrong thing
Question 192: Thanks to her regular workouts and sensible diet she certainly trikes me as in the pink.
A. in absolute health B. in good health C. in clear health D. in extreme health
Question 193: If you are at a loose end this weekend, I will show you around the city.
A. free B. confident C. occupied D. reluctant
Question 194: "She is an excellent actress!” "You_______ again!"
A. can say that B. may say it C. say it D. say that
Question 195: "Do you know who else is going to be running for governor?"
“_______ that Mr. Jones is planning to."
A. Word is it B. Word has it C. Word has D. The words are
Question 196: That the genetic differences make one race superior to another is nothing but a tall
story.
A. cynical B. unbelievable C. untrue D. exaggeration
Question 197: You should accept the Nokia mobile phone as a 16-birthday present from your parents
delightedly. Don't_______.
A. look gift horse in the mouth B. buy it through the nose
C. pull my leg D. take it for granted
Question 198: He built up a successful business but it was all done_______ of his health.
A. at the price B. by the expense C. at all cost D. at the expense
Question 199: Are you certain that you are cut out for that kind of job?
A. are determined to take B. don't want to take C. are offered D. have the necessary
skills for
Question 200: I'd love to come, but I am snowed_______ at the moment.
A. under B. out C. at D. about
Question 201: I am gripped with a fever whenever a new year is coming.

A. I feel disappointed B. I am excited C. I get upset D. I have got a temperature

Question 202: Failing to submit the proposal on time_______ was for Tom.
A. A real kick in the pants B. an open and shut case
C. a shot in the dark D. a nail in the coffin
Question 203: They always kept on good _______ with their next- door neighbors for the children's
sake.
A. relations B. terms C. will D. relationship
Question 204: By happenstance, the number of people at the first New York show equaled the entire
car population of the United States at that time.
A. by chance B. by mistake C. by accident D. all are correct
Question 205: If you are tired of books on happiness, you may prefer books which give step-by-step
instructions on how to redecorate or enlarge a house.
A. little by little B. gradually C. slower and slower D. both A and B are correct
Question 206: Like everyone else, Sue has her_______ of course but on the whole, she's quite satisfied
with life.
A. ups and downs B. ins and outs C. safe and sound D. odds and ends
Question 207: Make sure you _________ _______ your assignment before you go to bed.
A. have B. do C. take D. make
Question 208: Mr. Peter is the big_______ in the company as he has just been promoted to the position
of Managing Director.
A. bread B. meat C. cheese D. apple
Question 209: Of course an encyclopedia is not a book you read_______.
A. from the start to the stop B. from cover to cover
C. from the top to the end D. from page by page
Question 210: At times, I look at him and wonder what is going on in his mind.
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A. sometimes B. always C. hardly D. never

 English collocation and idioms – MS Huyen

Question 211: The weather is going to change soon; I feel it in my _______.

A. body B. legs C. skin D. bones
Question 212: She was _______disappointed when she learned that she was turned down for the post.
A. gravely B. bitterly C. highly D. fully
Question 213: She nearly lost her own life_______ attempting to save the child from drowning.
A. at B. with C. in D. for
Question 214: Applications should be submitted at least eight weeks in advance of the session in
which the student wishes to enroll.
A. into B. after the end of C. on either side of D. prior to
Question 215: The telephone rang and interrupted his _______ of thought.
A. train B. line C. chain D. series
Question 216: Minh was so frightened that he was shaking like_______.
A. a flag B. a leaf C. jelly D. the wind
Question 217: They have the same language, but in other respects they are as different as_______.
A. cats and dogs salt and pepper B. chalk and cheese
C. salt and pepper D. here and there
Question 218: I usually buy my clothes_______. It is cheaper than going to the dress maker.
A. on the house B. off the peg C. in public D. on the shelf
Question 219: It takes her 20 minutes to get ready.
A. to prepare B. to wake up C. to go D. to get up
Question 220: The smell of the sea _______ his childhood.
A. took him in B. took after C. took him back to D. took it for granted
Question 221: We are _______no obligation to change goods which were not purchased here.
A. to B. with C. at D. under
Question 222: Nothing_______ the ordinary ever happens here.
A. about B. out of C. from D. in
Question 223: Despite all the interruptions, he _ with his work.
A. pressed on B. held on C. stuck at D. hung out
Question 224: Many a_______ it difficult to avoid the interference of mass media in their life.
A. pop star find B. pop star finds C. poop stars find D. pop stars finds
Question 225: All candidates will be treated equally, _______ of their age or background.
A. irrelevant B. discounting C. notwithstanding D. irrespective
Question 226: He tried to limit himself to _ 10 cigarettes a day.
A. be smoking B. have smoked C. smoke D. smoking
Question 227: You should study hard to _ your classmates.
A. catch sight of B. feel like C. get in touch with D. keep pace with
Question 228: The medical community continues to_______ progress in the fight against cancer.
A. speed B. make C. do D. take
Question 229: Linda: "Thomas thinks he knows everything about dinosaur: ’ Jill:" _______"
A. He's such a know-all. B. He knew a lot about dinosaurs.
C. He knows enough. D. Everything he knows is all about dinosaurs
Question 230: The new office block_______ well with its surroundings.
A. blends in B. stands out C. shapes up D. sets off
Question 231: After a great deal of questioning, he decided to come clean and tell the truth.
A. admit B. confess C. agree D. deny
Question 232: No matter how much pressure you put on Simon, he won’t budge a(n) _______.
A. inch B. mile C. foot D. metre
Question 233: We couldn't stay long, so we only wished Mark many happy_______of his birthday and
hurried to the airport.
A. days B. moments C. returns D. regards
Question 234: Her family has gone to Edinburgh to pay their last_______ to uncle Bob, who died last
week.
A. sympathy B. love C. respects D. honors
Question 235: I can accept criticism in general, but Martin ______it too far, so I had no other option
but to show my disapproval.
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A. pushed B. carried C. made D. put

Question 236: Jeans like this may have been fashionable in the 60's, but now they are_______ the
 English collocation and idioms – MS Huyen

times.
A. out of B. under C. over D. behind
Question 237: I take my hat off to all those people who worked hard to get the contract.
A. Encourage B. congratulate C. respect D. welcome
Question 238: I was glad when he said that his car was_______.
A. For my use B. at my disposal C. for me use D. at my use
Question 239: _______ the exception_______ the little baby, everybody in my family has to jog every
morning.
A. With/to B. With /of C. In / of D. By / of
Question 240: He always takes full _______ of the mistake by these competitors.
A benefit B. advantage C. profit D. advice
Question 241: On hearing the news she fainted and it was half an hour before she_______ again.
A. came up B. came round C. came over D. came forward
Question 242: I called Jenna yesterday with a view_______ her about the project.
A. of asking B. to asking C. in asking D. for asking
Question 243: I received housing benefit when I was unemployed.
A. out of work B. out of fashion C. out of order D. out of practice
Question 244: Don't worry about trying to catch the last train home, as we can _______ you up for the
night.
A. take B. keep C. put D. set
Question 245: Without written evidence, we don’t have a _______ on
A. leg to stand B. foot to stand C. leg to lean D. foot to lean
Question 246: _______, the people who come to this club are in their twenties and thirties.
A. By and large B. Altogether C. To a degree D. Virtually
Question 247: Nga is very modest, always_______ her success.
A. keeping down B. turning around C. playing down D. pushing bac
Question 248: He didn't bat an eye when he realized he failed the e x a m again.
A. didn't want to see B. didn't show surprise C. wasn't happy D. didn't care
Question 249: I try to be friendly but it is hard to _______ some of my colleagues.
A. get on with B. watch out for C. come up with D. stand in for
Question 250: I was in two _______ about taking the flat because it is very good but the rent was
rather high.
A. heads B. minds C. hands D. ways
Question 251: The home team _______ the challengers by 68 points to 47.
A. saw off B. waged off C. set off D. kept up
Question 252: Sure, she's only six, but she's old enough to know better than _______ off without us.
A. run B. to run C. running D. ran
Question 253: Our project was successful_______ its practicality.
A. in terms of B. with a view to C. regardless D. on behalf of
Question 254: "Don't look so worried! You should take the leader's comment with_______."
A. a teaspoon of salt B. a cup of salt C. a dose of salt D. a pinch of salt
Question 255: Peter was ejected after committing five personal_______ in water sport game yesterday.
A. mistakes B. faults C. fouls D. errors
Question 256: Toxic chemicals in the air and land have driven many species to the_______ of
extinction.
A. tip B. edge C. verge D. border
Question 257: We went away on holiday last week, but it rained day in day out.
A. every single day B. every other day C. every second day D. every two days
Question 258: Dr. Evans has _______ a valuable contribution to the development of the school.
A. done B. created C. caused D. made
Question 259: Just keep _______ on the baby while I cook the supper, will you?
A. a look B. a glance C. an eye D. a care
Question 260: Remember to appreciate what your friends do for you. You shouldn't take
them_______.
A. as a rule B. as usual C. out of habit D. for granted
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Question 261: The players' protests_______ no difference to the referee's decision at all
A. did B. made C. caused D. created
 English collocation and idioms – MS Huyen

Question 262: Unfortunately, the company closed down because it couldn't keep_______ with rapidly
changing technology.
A. speed B. time C. fast D. pace
Question 263: What the politician was saying fell on_______ ears last night.
A. dead B. deaf C. dumb D. mute
Question 264: "What's the matter? You don't look very well." - "I feel a little _______.”
A. out of the blue B. out of order C. under the weather D. under the impression
Question 265: It is a really difficult matter to decide how to solve now. I will need time to_____ on it.
A. sleep B. feed C. eat D. sweep
Question 266: He drives me to the edge because he never stops talking.
A. steers me B. irritates me C. moves me D. frightens me
Question 267: Don’t forget _______ goodbye to the interviewer before leaving the office.
A. saying B. telling C. to tell D. to say
Question 268: They talked for three days before finally______ a decision.
A. doing B. arriving C. making D. coming
Question 269: My mother doesn’t ______ eye to eye with my father sometimes.
A. see B. glance C. look D. agree
Question 270: For a short while. I managed to catch ______ of President Trump entering the White
House.
A. vision B. notice C. view D. sight
Question 271: I feel terrible, I didn’t sleep_______ last night.
A. a jot B. a wink C. an inch D. an eye
Question 272: I’m going to make all efforts to win a gold medal in_______ for your help and concern.
A. return B. mind C. allowances D. memory
Question 273: The manager charged her _______ irresponsibility and dishonesty.
A. for B. on C. about D. with
Question 274: _______ stay the night if it’s too difficult to get home.
A. By all means B. In all C. At all costs D. On whole
Question 275: To get the best_______ on a new car, you need to know what a car is really worth.
A. amount B. number C. deal D. figure
Question 276: He talks about football for hours_______ end.
A. at B. with C. on D. off
Question 277: Would you mind_______ me a favor and posting this letter for me?
A. making B. doing C. getting D. giving
Question 278: When you use the Internet, you have so much information at your_______.
A. fingers B. hands C. fingertips D. thumbs
Question 279: The new cowboy film catches the fancy of the children.
A. satisfies B. attracts C. amuses D. surprises
Question 280: _______ of computers, it is difficult to imagine how tedious the work of accountants and
clerks must have been in the past
A. At the age B. On the age C. In the age D. By the age
Question 281: I find it difficult to make_______ as prices keep_______.
A. end meet-rising B. ends meet-raising C. end meet-raising D. ends meet-rising
Question 282: Man: “I heard you have a part in the school play tonight.”
Woman: "Yes, and I’m on pins and needles”
A. happy B. angry C. nervous D. confused
Question 283: There's a lot more to Willie than one would think: still waters run_______.
A. deeply B. deeply C. deepness D. depth
Question 284: The idea _______ to nothing because I couldn't afford to do it.
A. Went B. came C. turned D. changed
Question 285: We’ve lost everything. Still, there’s no point in complaining. We'll just have to try and
make_______.
A. no bones about it B. a splash C. the best of a bad job D. a clean sweep
Question 286: Donald Trump has suggested he could grant legal status to millions of undocumented
immigrants who have not_______ serious crimes in what could be a major policy shift.
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A. committed B. took C. served D. done

Question 287: I think we can safely say now that we have got our money back, we have been home
 English collocation and idioms – MS Huyen

and dry.
A. have not got wet B. have been successful C. have got home dry D. have got to water
Question 288: He decided to make a claim_______ damages to his car.
A. for B. in C. about D. on
Question 289: The opposition will be elected into government at the next election, without a_______
of a doubt.
A. shade B. shadow C. benefit D. profit
Question 290: I just couldn’t remember her name even though it was on the _______ of my tongue
A. edge B. top C. tip D. front
Question 291: "I'm going for an interview for a job this afternoon.” "Good luck! I’ll keep my_______
crossed for you.”
A. legs B. fingers C. arms D. hands
Question 292: Father has lost his job, so we'll have to _______ our belt to avoid getting into debt.
A. tighten B. shorten C. lengthen D. widen
Question 293: Susan lost her_______ when she suddenly woke up and saw the house on fire.
A. eyes B. head C. mind D. brain

Question 294: Vietnam’s Got Talent is the gameshow that has taken audiences_______.
A. by storm B. by wind C. by night D. by heart
Question 295: Nadine " I've been offered $550 for my stereo. Should I take it or wait a better one?”
Kitty: "Take the $550_______.”
A. Actions speak louder than words B. Kill two birds with one stone
C. The early bird catches the worm D. A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush
Question 296: My father is in_______ of 30 engineers and 80 workers.
A. pressure B. leadership C. impression D. charge
Question 297: We should make full use_______ the Internet as it is an endless source of information.
A. of B. in C. with D. from
Question 298: When finding a new house, parents should __________ all the _______ conditions for
their children’s education and entertainment.
A. take into account B. make all the conditions C. get a measure of D. put into effect
Question 299: This is new washing machine is not a patch_______ our old one. These clothes are still
dirty.
A. on B. in C. at D. off
Question 300: Poor management brought the company to_______ of collapse.
A. the edge B. the foot C. the ring D. the brink
Question 301: The twins look so much alike that no one can tell them apart.
A. distinguish between them B. point out with them
C. spoil them D. pick them out
Question 302: With respect to maneuverability, few birds can equal the capabilities of the
hummingbird, which hovers for long periods and even flies backward.
A. With regard to B. With fondness to C. In appreciation of D. In favor of
Question 303: The exercise was a piece of cake; I can do it with my eyes closed.
A. challenging B. very easy C. boring D. understandable
Question 304: Nobody owned up to breaking the window.
A. objected to B. decided on C. confessed to D. allowed for
Question 305: I don't really go in for winter sports very much.
A. am not good at B. do not hate C. do not practice D. am not keen on
Question 306: Most of the _______ in this workshop do not work very seriously or productively.
A. rank and file B. tooth and nail C. eager beavers D. old hand
Question 307: He may be shy now, but he'll soon come out of his shell when he meets the right girl.
A. hole B. become confident C. shed D. become shy
Question 308: I won't buy that car because it has too much_______ on it.
A. ups and downs B. odds and ends C. wear and tear D. white lie
Question 309: Suddenly, in the twinkling of an eye, her whole life had been turned upside down.
A. very quickly B. gradually C. over a long period of time D. unfortunately
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Question 310: I had a_______, which I couldn’t explain, that something terrible was going to happen.
A. feeling B. view C. sense D. thought
 English collocation and idioms – MS Huyen

Question 311: I went to a restaurant last night, I was the ten thousandth customer, so my dinner was
on the _______.
A. holiday B. house C. free D. decrease
Question 312: Applicants must hold a(n)- _______ driving licence.
A. artificial B. faithful C. false D. valid
Question 313: As the drug took_______ the patient became unconscious.
A. effect B. force C. influence D. action
Question 314: You're very quiet today. What have you got on your_______?
A. spirit B. attention C. mind D. brain
Question 315: Please accept our ______________ _______ congratulations on your promotion!
A. finest B. warmest C. dearest D. best
Question 316: They’ve bought a holiday cottage near the sea, and in_______ course they plan to move
there permanently.
A. future B. due C. coming D. intended
Question 317: She should have been here but she's_______ chicken flu.
A. gone through with B. gone down with C. come in for D. come up against
Question 318: Part-time jobs give us the freedom to _______ our own interest.
A. pursue B. chase C. seek D. catch
Question 319: "Is there anything interesting_______ the paper today?” - “Well, there's an unusual
picture_______ the back page.”
A. in/ on B. on/in C. in/in D. on / on
Question 320: The room needs decorating for the_______ and see party.
A. ship B. sheep C. sip D. tip
Question 321: The referee_______ the football game to a halt by blowing his whistle.
A. brought B. took C. carried D. made
Question 322: On the flip side, the world wide adoption of a couple of languages that have a large
number of speakers has led to the death of several less popular languages.
A. In other words B. On the other hand C. On the whole D. In general
Question 323: Drinking too much alcohol is said to_______ harm to our health.
A. make B. do C. lead D. take
Question 324: At the end of the training course, each participant was presented with a_______ of
completion.
A. degree B. certificate C. diploma D. qualification
Question 325: These days, many people only read printed newspapers once in a while as they tend
to access information online.
A. regularly B. attentively C. occasionally D. selectively
Question 326: Most of the _______ in this workshop do not work very seriously or productively.
A. rank and file B. tooth and nail C. eager beavers D. old hand
Question 327: He may be shy now, but he’ll soon come out of his shell when he meets the right girl.
A. hole B. become confident C. shed D. become shy
Question 328: For a public campaign to succeed, it is important to make_______ of existing social
organizations as well as other relations.
A. fun B. advantage C. benefit D. use
Question 329: Although the conditions weren’t ideal for a walk, we decided to_______ a go of it.
A. make B. do C. run D. carry
Question 330: They always kept on good _______ with their next-door neighbors for the children's
sake.
A. will B. friendship C. terms D. relations
Question 331: In my company, the director deputy usually_______ the responsibility for organizing
meetings and conferences.
A. makes B. gets C. becomes D. takes
Question 332: Mr. Gerstein was particularly taken back to hear that sleeping problems are often linked
to physical problems.
A. surprised B. intended C. determined D. relieved
Question 333: I shouldn’t go outside without a raincoat because it's raining cats and dogs.
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A. it's just started to rain B. it’s raining very heavily C. it's going to rain D.
it’s drizzling
 English collocation and idioms – MS Huyen

Question 334: It seems that the world record for this event is almost impossible to_______.
A. get B. beat C. take D. achieve
Question 335: For lunch, I always have something quick and easy: a sandwich, a salad, toast and
the_______.
A. same B. similar C. like D. rest
Question 336: I don't think anyone understood what I was saying at the meeting, did they? I totally
failed to get my point_______.
A. around B. along C. across D. about
Question 337: We don't seem to have any more of that book, Sir. It is out of_______ but we are getting
a new delivery next Thursday if you would like to pop back then.
A. stock B. order C. print D. shop
Question 338: I'm_______ my brother is.
A. nowhere near as ambitious as B. nothing near as ambitious as
C. nowhere like so ambitious as D. nothing as ambitious as
Question 339: No matter how angry he was, he would never ___________ to_______ violence.
A. exert B. resolve C. resort D. recourse
Question 340: It never_______ my head that such a terrible thing would happen.
A. struck B. dawned C. occurred D. entered
Question 341: Despite all the evidence, he wouldn’t admit that he was in the_______.
A. fault B. error C. wrong D. slip
Question 342: He would win the race if he_______ his brother's example and trained harder.
A. repeated B. set C. answered D. followed
Question 343: I can't possibly lend you any more money, it is quite out of the_______.
A. order B. practice C. place D. question
Question 344: She had to hand in her notice_______ advance when she decided to leave the job
A. with B. from C. in D. to
Question 345: You’ve got to be_______ certain before you decide.
A. deadly B. deathly C. dead D. dearly
Question 346: I went to a restaurant last night. I was the ten thousandth customer, so my dinner was
on the_______.
A. holiday B. house C. free D. decrease
Question 347: I can't stand the car_______. Therefore, I hate traveling by car.
A. illness B. sickness C. ailment D. disease
Question 348: Why don't you make it bigger and more careful to _______ people's attention?
A. raise B. attract C. make D. keep
Question 349: My Dad is always willing to give a hand_______ cleaning the house.
A. in B. with C. of D. about

Question 350: At the end of the film, the young prince_______ in love with a reporter.
A. felt B. made C. fell D. got
Question 351: You will be home and_______ in the interview if you have good qualifications and wide
experience.
A. high B. dry C. house D. way
Question 352: Most young people nowadays believe in_______ marriage - first comes love, then comes
marriage.
A. romantic B. arranged C. unique D. contractual
Question 353: - How much is this car? - 15,000 dollars. My uncle paid for it by _______.
A. installments B. credit C. hire purchase D. cash
Question 354: She went to college to study history, but changed_______ and is now a doctor.
A. horses in midstream B. for a better C. her tune D. hands
Question 355: I strongly recommend that you should take out an insurance policy in the house for
your own peace of mind.
A to stop your sleeping B. to stop your worrying C to stop your thinking D. to stop your
believing
Question 356: Face-to-face socializing is not as preferred as virtual socializing among the youth.
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A. instant B. available C. direct D. facial

Question 357: With so many daily design resources, how do you stay-up-date with technology
 English collocation and idioms – MS Huyen

without spending too much time on it?

A. connect to the Internet all day B. update new status
C. use social network daily D. get latest information
Question 358: The computer has had an enormous_______ on the way we work and enjoy life.
A. impression B. influence C. change D. alternation
Question 359: We have been working hard. Let’s_______ a break.
A. make B. find C. do D. take
Question 360: Peter makes a good_______ from his freelance work.
A. profession B. job C. living D. earnings
Question 361. Marrying into a such a rich family had always been _____ his wildest dreams.
A. under B. above C. over D. beyond
Question 362. Marry is always making a mountain out of the molehill.
A. exaggerating B. extravagant C. squandering D. overextending
Question 363. _____ wait for no man.
A. Tide and fire B. Time and tide C. Time and fire D. Tide and time
Question 364. I usually buy my clothes _____. It’s cheaper than going to the dress maker.
A. on the house B. off the peg C. in public D. on the shelf
Question 365. My cousins tends to look on the bright side in any circumstances.
A. be confident B. be optimistic C. be pessimistic D. be smart
Question 366. The child has no problem reciting the poem; he has _____ it to the memory.
A. devoted B. added C. committed D. admitted
Question 367. After their long-lasting conflict had been resolved, the two families decided to bury
the hatchet.
A. become enemies. B. become friends C. give up weapons D. reach an agreement
Question 368. The nominating committee always meet behind closed doors, lest its deliberations
become known prematurely.
A. privately B. safely C. publicly D. dangerously
Question 369. In a modern family, the husband is expected to join hands with his wife to _____ the
household chores.
A. do B. run C. take D. make
Question 370. The table in the living room must be moved to _____ the new TV set.
A. get rid of B. pave the way for C. make room for D. take hold of
Question 371. The US president Barack Obama _____ an official visit to Viet Nam in May 2016, which
is of great significance to the comprehensive bilateral partnership.
A. delivered B. paid C. offered D. gave
Question 372. Two close friends Tom and Kyle are talking about Kyle’s upcoming birthday. Select the
most suitable response to complete the exchange.
- Tom: “Can I bring a friend to your birthday party?”
- Kyle: “_____”
A. It’s my honour B. Let’s do it then
C. The more the merrier D. That’s right
Question 373. As children, we were very poor. When my father finally came rich, he told us that he
wanted to _____ all the hardship we had suffered.
A. make out with B. make up for C. make off with D. make over to
Question 374. It’s not a pleasant feeling to discover you’ve been taken for a ride by a close friend.
A. driven away B. deceived deliberately C. given a lift D. treated with sincerity
Question 375. Thanks to her father’s encouragement, she has made great _____ in her study.
A. standard B. development C. contribution D. progress
Question 376. Jim didn’t break the vase on _____, but he was still punished for his carelessness.
A. occasion B. chance C. intention D. purpose
Question 377. “How was your exam?” “A couple of questions were tricky, but on the _____ it was
pretty easy.”
A. spot B. general C. hand D. whole
Question 378. If you practice regularly, you can learn this language skill in short _____ of a time.
A. period B. aspect C. arrangement D. activity
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Question 379. The shop assistant is ready to _____ me a helping hand. She is very nice.
A. take B. lend C. offer D. get
 English collocation and idioms – MS Huyen

Question 380. The manager _____ his temper with the employees and shouted at them.
A. had B. lost C. took D. kept
Question 381. All nations should _____ hands to work out a plan to solve the problem of global
warming.
A. join B. hold C. shake D. lend
Question 382. When he started that company, he really went _____. It might have been a disaster.
A. out on the limb B. on and off C. over the odds D. once too often
Question 383. We regret to tell you that the materials you ordered are _____.
A. out of stock B. out of practice C. out of reach D. out of work
Question 384. She _____ her success to hard work.
A. described B. devoted C. blamed D. ascribed
Question 385. I refuse to believe a word of it; it’s a cock-and-_____ story.
A. hen B. goose C. bull D. duck
Question 386. The search for a new vaccine took priority _____ all other medical researchers.
A. above B. over C. to D. on
Question 387. He mentioned _____ particular electronics, his major at university.
A. in B. on C. up D. off
Question 388. One study by the Pew Internet and American Life Project (2009) found that people are
not _____ offline friends with online companions but are using them to support their offline
relationships.
A. making B. providing C. combining D. substituting
Question 389. The study also found that social networks allow us to have discussions with a much
more diverse set of people than in the real world, so we share knowledge with people from a wide
_____ of backgrounds.
A. ranges B. amount C. number D. variety
Question 390. _____ they’ve already made their decision, there’s nothing much we can do.
A. Seeing that B. On grounds that C. Assuming that D. For reason that
Question 391. I’m going on business for a week, so I’ll be leaving everything _____.
A. on your guards B. up to our eyes C. in your capable hands D. under the care of you
Question 392. When asked about their preference for movies, many young people say that they are
in favour _____ science fiction.
A. with B. of C. in D. for
Question 393. Students are _____ less pressure as a result of changes in testing procedures.
A. under B. above C. upon D. out of
Question 394. In many big cities, people have to put up with noise, overcrowding and bad air.
A. make up for B. take part in C. tolerate D. generate
Question 395. Population explosion seems to surpass the ability of the earth to _____ the demand for
food.
A. make B. need C. have D. meet
Question 396. Shake a leg or you will miss the train.
A. Hurry up B. Slow down C. Watch out D. Put down
Question 397. You should pat yourself on the back for having achieved such a high score in the
graduation exam.
A. praise yourself B. criticize yourself C. check up your back D. wear a backpack
Question 398. Despite the traffic hold-ups, we were able to arrive at the airport in the _____ of time
just before the check-in counter closed.
A. line B. chick C. second D. nick
Question 399. Many people head for the countryside where the flat _____ of fields helps them escape
from the hectic city life.
A. extension B. expansion C. extent D. expanse
Question 400. We know that we are at fault for our third consecutive defeat, so there is no need to
_____ salt into the wound.
A. spread B. rub C. apply D. put
Question 401. Parents often advise their children to study hard in the hope that they will_____
success in the future.
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A. gather B. collect C. master D. achieve

 English collocation and idioms – MS Huyen

Question 402. Voluntary work helps foster independence and imparts the ability to deal with different
situations, often simultaneously, thus teaching people how to _____ their way through different
systems.
A. take B. work C. put D. give
Question 403: A week on vacation with my relatives is enough to drive me up the _____.
A. ceiling B. road C. mad D. wall
Question 404: He was trying to sell me a new laptop which I suspect fell off the back of a _____.
A. lorry B. truck C. train D. rail
Question 405: I felt like a _____ wheel when they started looking at each other affectionately.
A. fourth B. fifth C. sixth D. third
Question 406: They spent their holiday exploring the highways and _____ of the country.
A. railway B. doorway C. byways D. mainway
Question 407: When I was trying to become a screenwriter, I hitched my _____ to a star by befriending
some popular actresses.
A. wagon B. journey C. voyage D. cruise
Question 408: It's dangerous to _____ the lights. You may have a terrible accident.
A. pass B. cross C. fly D. jump
Question 409: He's been left to paddle his own _____ when he started his business.
A. canoe B. boat C. sail D. ship
Question 410: Aren't you putting the _____ before the horse by deciding what to wear for the
wedding before you've even been invited to it?
A. chart B. cart C. dart D. hart
Question 411: You have to put the pedal to the _____if you want to get there on time.
A. metal B. mental C. fatal D. cannal
Question 412: It was only when he discovered that his wallet was gone that he realized they had _____
him for a ride.
A. made B. taken C. given D. had
Question 413: Our team was doing well for a while, but they got tired and then the _____ fell off.
A. spirits B. moods C. attitudes D. wheels
Question 414: Beyond any _____ , W. Shakespeare was the greatest writer of the
sixteenth century.
A. understanding B. suspicion C. disbelief D. doubt
Question 415: He was amazed to see that the town center had changed beyond _____.
A. recognition B. realization C. admission D. acknowledge
Question 416: Whether you had insurance is _____ the point, the accident is still your fault.
A. besides B. beside C. next to D. over
Question 417: When his company sent him to the States, they left his family in the _____ as to whether
it would be temporarily.
A. dark B. secret C. space D. light
Question 418: I don't need to know the content of your speech in detail, just put the main message
_____ a nutshell for me, please!
A. on B. in C. out D. off
Question 419: When I was a child, my mother used to teach me table manners.
A. etiquette B. rule C. problem D. norm
Question 420: My son got a job working directly under a prominent businessman. It's a very
_____ start to his career.
A. complimentary B. excellent C. promising D. encouraged
Question 421: Our kids are sad that their summer vacation is to an end.
A. being B. coming C. running D. drawing
Question 422: The artist put the _____ touches on her painting.
A. completing B. finishing C. finalizing D. ending
Question 423: The back injury put an abrupt end to his tennis career.
A. a direct B. a rushed C. a sudden D. a fast
Question 424: I'm going to walk down to the bookstore to _ time before my flight.
A. kill B. spend C. waste D. miss
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Question 425: Although she had been told quite sternly to herself together, she simply couldn't stop
the tears from flowing.
 English collocation and idioms – MS Huyen

A. bring B. pull C. force D. push

Question 426: __to fame at an early age may have a negative influence on children's psychological
development A. Approaching B. Reaching C. Going D. Rising
Question 427: Despite careful preparation, the candidate got cold feet when asked a challenging
question and gave an unsatisfactory answer.
A. had a fever B. stayed confident C. lacked confidence D. became aggressive
Question 428: So, tell me about your new job. I'm all_____.
A. ears B. eyes C. hands D. lips
Question 429: Don't tell my little brother about my sister's surprise birthday party yet. He's got a big
_____.
A. mouth B. eye C. cheek D. ear
Question 430: Will you keep your eye _____ my suitcase while I go to get the tickets.
A. in B. on C. at D. of
Question 431: This calculus homework is a real pain in the . It's not that I don't
understand it, it's just so tedious!
A. heart B. head C. neck D. leg
Question 432: I'm sure he will be home and dry in the interview because he has good qualifications
and wide experience.
A. successful B. satisfied C. unsuccessful D. unsatisfied
Question 433: After a momentary _____ of concentration, Simon managed to regain his focus and
completed the test.
A. failure B. fault C. error D. lapse
Question 434: I felt a __ pain and looked down to see blood pouring from my leg.
A. strong B. violent C. clear D. sharp
Question 435: I always cast a glance at my desk to make sure I have everything before I leave the
office at night
A. make B. take C. hold D. give
Question 436: Fame is a privilege that gives people in the _____ eye lots of opportunities others can
only dream of
A. public B. common C. naked D. envy
Question 437: It is very easy to find _____ with the work of others.
A. error B. fault C. mistake D. envy
Question 438: Ranieri returned, saw the mess, and hit the roof.
A. became extremely annoyed B. became extremely surprised
C. became extremely angry D. became extremely happy
Question 439: I know it isn't easy facing off against the low life of this town, but you're on the police
force and you have to _____ your duty.
A. do B. make C. carry D. take
Question 440: When I was at school, I had a _____ on a film star.
A. love B. crush C. passion D. keen
Question 441: She has a soft _____ for Richard - he can do anything.
A. knot B. course C. spot D. sport
Question 442: I've had the _____ for him ever since he came to college.
A. hots B. hot C. heat D. heating
Question 443: Roger fell head over _____ in love with Maggie, and they were married within the
month.
A. reels B. kneels C. kneels D. heels
Question 444: After having a blazing _____ with his wife, he stormed out of the room and banged the
door behind him.
A. row B. quarrel C. argument D. debate
Question 445: On February 12th he put up _____ sale a second tranche of 32 state-owned companies.
A. on B. for C. out D. at
Question 446: We will have to _____ war on the rebels if they advance over our border.
A. announce B. tell C. declare D. wages
Question 447: Most of London's gates had been demolished by the end of the eighteenth century.
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However, by a _____ of luck, the last of them was preserved.

A. flash B. flock C. bust D. stroke
 English collocation and idioms – MS Huyen

Question 448: I blushed with _____ when the teacher caught me not paying attention in class and
yelled at me.
A. embarrassment B. shame C. shyness D. anger
Question 449:Their baby bears a resemblance to its grandfather.
A. takes up B. takes after C. takes on D. takes off
Question 450:These prices bear no resemblance to the ones I saw printed in the newspaper.
A. bear responsibility B. bring back
C. be immediately obvious D. are completely different
from
Question 451: _____ my reckoning, we should arrive in ten minutes.
A. For B. In C. By D. On
Question 452: _____ calculations have shown that the earth's resources may run out before the end
of the next century.
A. Raw B. Blunt C. Rude D. Crude
Question 453: He was presented with a gold watch in recognition of his years as club secretary.
A. to show respect for B. in favor of C. in charge of D. to gain recognition
Question 454: I didn't want her to jump to the conclusion that the divorce was in any way her fault.
A. hurry B. rush C. leap D. fly
Question 455: A woman had a _____ escape when the car came round the corner.
A. narrow B. close C. near D. limited
Question 456: Margaret Thatcher _____ history when she became the first female British prime
minister.
A. created B. made C. changed D. did
Question 457: Paul was transferred to our head office in Chicago.
A. headmanager B. headleader C. headquarter D. headmaster
Question 458: After years of not speaking, Janie finally made _____ with her sister.
A. fun B. allowance C. use D. peace
Question 459: I feel completely exhausted when I've listened to Marion for half-an-hour.
A. absolutely B. extremely C. exceedingly D. very
Question 460: You __ me by surprise when you showed up at my office with flowers this afternoon!
A. took B. made C. caused D. did
Question 461: I have a sweet ________ , I can't say no to cookies.
A. mouth B. tongue C. tooth D. taste
Question 462: He plays the part of a tough cop on TV who really has a heart of gold.
A. drops a hint B. does him good
C. raises his voice D. has kind and generous character
Question 463: When you choose to gamble, you do so at your own _____.
A. expense B. risk C. stake D. danger
Question 464: Mary was lost for words when she was awarded the prize.
A. surprised B. annoyed C. happy D. amused
Question 465: If you tell him the truth, you _____ the risk of hurting his feelings.
A. lead B. take C. run D. drive
Question 466: If you have a _____ conscience, you feel guilty about something because you know it
was wrong. If you have a _____ conscience, you do not feel guilty because you know you have done
nothing wrong.
A. criminal/peace B. brutal/green C. guilty/clear D.
crude/clean
Question 467: I wanted to _____ amends for the worry I'vecaused you.
A. give B. do C. take D. make
Question 468: She felt a warm _____ of happiness when he embraced her.
A. heat B. glow C. flame D. fire
Question 469: The only reason why Dave's joke about my love life bothered me so much is because
there wasn't a _____ of truth to it.
A. speck B. grain C. dot D. drop
Question 470: Leaflets giving details are available _____ request.
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A. on B. in C. at D. of
Question 471: The city council is discussing a detailed _____ plan for maintaining clean beaches and
 English collocation and idioms – MS Huyen

parks.
A. activity B. action C. measure D. approach
Question 472: To _____ green is to practise simple green lifestyles, which helps save the planet for
further generation.
A. go B. act C. make D. get
Question 473: Many companies do not want to spend too much on waste _____ as the cost is really
high.
A. discharge B. release C. rid D. disposal
Question 474: Sometimes people just focus on the _____ benefits without thinking of the
environmental risks of certain economic activities.
A. long-term B. short-lived C. immediate D. potential
Question 475: Soot comes from the _____ combustion of fossil or other fuels.
A. completion B. complete C. incompletion D. incomplete
Question 476: Many students opted for English _____ to History.
A. with respect to B. with reference to C. in preference to D. in view of
Question 477: The students were split into five groups according their abilities.
A. to B. at C. of D. in
Question 478: Well, apart from his long nose he is rather good-looking, isn't he?
A. In addition B. Besides C. Aside from D. Moreover
Question 479: All schools had to be closed temporarily on account of heavy snowfall.
A. as a result B. as a result of C. thanks to D. in favor of
Question 480: I am not absolutely sure about when the projects starts, but to the best of my
knowledge it will be on June 16.
A. according to me B. on my opinion C. with my pleasure D. as far as I know
Question 481: Unfortunately, some politicians often hit the belt to discredit their opponents.
A. below B. under C. over D. above
Question 482: Max's health has been improving since he came out of hospital, if only by degrees.
A. little by little B. gradually C. step by step D. all are correct
Question 483: Recently, with exports and sales decreasing, their outlook has _____ noticeably
changed for the A. better B. worse C. nicer D. more
Question 484: If you had been working on your project from scratch, you would realize how much
these results mean to us.
A. for B. in C. at D. with
Question 485: Doctor Murphy is always on call, even at night and at the weekend.
A. on duly B. on time C. in time D. at times
Question 486: These days, most young people would like to look for _____ jobs rather than secure
ones.
A. long-term B. well-paid C. fast-growing D. long-lasting
Question 487: More and more people are moving to live in the city in search of better _____
prospects.
A. occupation B. job C. career D. work
Question 488: People migrate to urban areas on a massive _____ for many reasons.
A. scale B. level C. extent D. number
Question 489: The rural areas are said to suffer from the lack of natural resources as well as
_____weather conditions.
A. rigid B. extreme C. poor D. worsened
Question 490: The manager threw a party _____ the group of computer experts from the
United States.
A. in honour of B. in favour of C. in welcome of D. in celebration of
Question 491: He doesn't have a lot of time to look for accommodation. He just stays in that rough
and _____ flat near his office
A. cough B. rough C. tough D. ready
Question 492: I don't understand what you are saying. What a load of _____.
A. crap B. drap C. tab D. rab
Question 493: We're just met. Don't you think you are _____ the gun to be talking about marriage
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now?
A. catching B. jumping C. cratching D. chasing
 English collocation and idioms – MS Huyen

Question 494: Sara bought in a lot of business last month; she should ask for a pay rise while she's
still on a _____.
A. roam B. roll C. rush D. run
Question 495: We run a very tight ship here, and we expect all our employees to be at their desks
by eight o'clock and take good care of their own business.
A. have a good voyage B. organize things efficiently
C. run faster than others D. manage an flexible system
Question 496: Many get a financial aid package which may include grants, scholarships and loans
because of the fear of having large debts placing considerable pressure on students.
A. putting B. forcing C. emphasizing D. giving
Question 497: It is quite common for students to gather at the canteen and shoot the breeze during
the break.
A. enjoy fresh air B. check the homework
C. gossip about unimportant things D. fight with each other
Question 498: We have discussed this problem at some _____ , but have not found out the solution.
A. time B. energy C. length D. distance
Question 499: My friends have just moved to a new flat in the residential area on the _____ of
Paris.
A. side B. outskirts C. suburbs D. outside
Question 500: People should _____ a green lifestyle to help conserve the natural
resources.
A. adapt B. adjust C. adopt D. adjoin
Question 501: My brother is an authority _____ Chinese cuisine.
A. over B. at C. in D. on
Question 502: The benefits of the Internet of social media are _____ .
A. enormous B. huge C. large D. gigantic
Question 503: After making a_________ of England, the band is coming again.
A. time B. chance C. tour D. date
Question 505: All staffs are not allowed to use their personal mobile phones during _____ hours.
A. office B. official C. officer D. officer's
Question 506: I didn't think Larry and Patricia had anything in , but they talked all evening.
A. in contrast B. particular C. common D. fact
Question 5 0 7 : I have meetings all day, so please _____ the lead on this project, Joan.
A. give B. do C. make D. take
Question 508: The fox tried in vain to reach the grapes.
A. was unsuccessful in reaching B. was successful in reaching
C. was incapable of reaching D. was unable to reach
Question 509: The personnel officer gave him her _____ that she wouldn't tell anyone that he had
been in the prison.
A. word B. world C. work D. worm
Question 510: The story he told us was _____.
A. beyond a joke B. beyond repair
C. beyond a shadow of a doubt D. beyond belief
Question 511: I could not keep in touch with him because I had lost his phone number.
A. get B. have C. bring D. take
Question 512: My boss received over ten letters of complaint from the customers this morning and
he really went up the wall.
A. hit the roof B. saw red C. hit the ceiling D. all are correct
Question 513: Be careful what you say - she's in a _____ mood today.
A. blue B. green C. black D. gray
Question 514: He was as sick as a _ when he realised he had thrown away his lottery ticket.
A. carrot B. parrot C. idiot D. rabbit
Question 515: When her son went missing, she was _____ herself with worry.
A. beside B. besides C. in D. of
Question 516: She felt a little _____ when she lost her job.
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A. black B. brown C. grey D. blue

Question 517: When she left him, he was down in the dumps for a couple of weeks.
 English collocation and idioms – MS Huyen

A. unhappy B. frustrated C. embarrassed D. irritated

Question 518: There is a factory near the college where we study and the noise from it gets on our
nerves.
A. surprises us B. annoys us C. cheats us D. amuses us
Question 519: Things went _____ in the second game when we lost 38-0.
A. from now then on B. from time to time C. from bad to worse D. from memory
Question 520: As the manager of a local company, he enjoys being a big _____ in a small pond.
A. shrimp B. frog C.crab D. fish
Question 521: All the other children in the school had rich, middle-class parents, and she was
beginning to feel like a fish out of water.
A. feel silly B. feel uncomfortable C. feel ashamed D. feel
miserable
Question 522: He seems to be a/an _____ fish but he is really just a normal guy.
A. ugly B. big C. odd D. old
Question 523: The success of our local theater has put our city on the map .
A. made our city famous B. changed our city
C. put pressure on our city D. turned our city into a palace
Question 524: The company's president went on and on about how they value every customer's
individual experience, but we all know he was just putting on an act as a normal part of PR.
A. tending B. pretending C. intending D. sending
Question 525: The bank robbers made a getaway in a stolen car.
A. escaped B. disappeared C. elapsed D. depleted
Question 526: Everybody took the Mickey out of him because he had his hair cut so short.
A. complimented B. praised C. laughed at D. criticized
Question 527: The local council has _____ the blame on mass tourism for the cause of environmental
problems.
A. taken B. had C. made D. put
Question 528: Don't _____ to conclusion that learning English is easy.
A. come B. get C. reach D. go
Question 529: We cannot make any comparison _____ her sacrifice.
A. at B. with C. to D. for
Question 530: Every nook and cranny of the house was stuffed with souvenirs of their trips abroad.
A. part B. section C. corner D. angle
Question 531: Do you make lists of pros and cons and carefully consider all the options?
A. advantages and disadvantages B. success and failure
C. strength and weakness D. agreement and disagreement
Question 532: Do you often _____ your intuition and then _____ a choice based on your feelings?
A. believe/give B. trust/make C. follow/have D. do/make
Question 533: When I have to make an especially _____ decision, I often ask my mother for
_____ advice.
A. hard/good B. difficult/perfect C. quick/thorough D. tough/sound
Question 534: When you make a decision very quickly, we call it a snap decision.
A. an arbitrary decision B. a wise decision
C. a spur-of-the-moment decision D. a tough decision
Question 535: A ____ document shows that the U.S. is planning to build additional military bases in
Central America.
A. disclosed B. escaped C. revealed D. leaked
Question 536: A lot of people believe the completely ______ claims they read on the internet, and
never actually research the issue.
A. impossible B. malicious C. unfounded D. uninvolved
Question 537: My cousin wanted to give me a job at his restaurant, but I _____ the offer.
A. denied B. refused C. repelled D. deleted
Question 538: That university is _____ acknowledged to be the best place in the world to study law.
A. hugely B. unjustly C. widely D. largely
Question 539: The human resources manager _____ the allegations that the
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company hired illegal immigrants.

A. defends B. denies C. denounces D. acclaims
 English collocation and idioms – MS Huyen

Question 540: My grandfather is a __ fan of his old college basketball team.

A. lifelong B. permanent C. forever D. lasting
Question 541: Her parents refused to give their_____ to her marriage to a man from a different
culture.
A. thanksgiving B. blessing C. grace D. honor
Question 542: I_____ support the campaign for humane treatment of farm animals.
A. animatedly B. forcefully C. enthusiastically D. warmly
Question 543: My son is my parents' only grandchild, so of course they think the _____ of him.
A. globe B. earth C. world D. space
Question 544: Some men will do anything to _____ the approval of the woman they love.
A. catch B. stand C. have D. win
Question 545: That course seems excellent - everyone who takes it speaks very _____ of it.
A. deeply B. highly C. greatly D. ill
Question 546: The article made some _____ criticisms of the corruption in the country's political
system.
A. grudging B. scathing C. burning D. violently
Question 547: A new TV show has sparked _____ by showing the positive side of dropping out of
college.
A. controversy B. argument C. contention D. debate
Question 548: A _____ of disappointment came over me when I heard that the show had been
canceled.
A. flood B. roll C. wave D. storm
Question 549: The city's efforts to cut down on pollution are finally fruit.
A. making B. producing C. growing D. bearing
Question 550: My grandmother remembers the _____ days of the civil war.
A. black B. dark C. shady D. gray

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