Idioms and Phrases c. resolved d.

changed
1. The project advanced by leaps and bounds. 9. I take exception to your statement that I am
bad tempered.
a. rapidly b. slowly
a. feel offended b. feel unhappy
c. sharply d. simply
c. object d. feel angry
2. His speech fell short on the audience.
10. His friends beat the boy to pay off old scores
a. Had no effect b. moved the audience
a. To punish someone b. to take revenge
c. Impressed the audience d. was quite short
c. to force him to be a scorer in a match
3. The officer called for an explanation form the
cashier for the shortage of cash. d. because he had not scored well earlier
a. Asked b. begged 11. She is too fond of her own voice.
c. served a notice d. demanded a. loves singing b. very selfish
4. He took his father’s advice to heart. c. very talkative
a. casually b. patiently d. does not listen properly to anyone else
c. seriously d. quietly 12. Some people do not grease anybody’s palm on
any account.
5. He is so innocent that he wears his heart on
his sleeve. a. Bribe b. flatter c. cheat d. fight
a. Wears dress that does not match 13. I was so disappointed when my close friend
left me in the lurch.
b. Express his feelings openly
a. Went away without waiting for me
c. Wears colourful dresses
b. Helped me in difficult times
d. Express his feelings with the shape of a heart
printed on his sleeve. c. Abandoned me when I needed help
6. She denied point-blank her involvement in the d. Stopped helping me in emergency
crime. 14. He was on the brink of disaster.
a. Directly b. desperately a. At the top of b. at the point of
c. stubbornly d. rudely b. On the side of d. on the back of
7. The poor subordinates are made scapegoats 15. The boy felt like a fish out of water.
by their superiors.
a. Disgusted b. uncomfortable
a. Punished for others’ misdeeds
c. disappointed d. homeless
b. Developed poor relations
16. His speech was all Greek to me.
c. Treated humbly and respectfully
a. strange b. incomprehensible
Scolded with arrogant reactions
c. inaudible d. uninteresting
8. The matter has been sorted out.
a. revised b. supported
Page No. 1
17. The poor man moved from pillar to post to get 25. She rejected his proposal point-blank.
money. a. directly b. pointedly
a. went to pillars b. tried his best c. abruptly d. briefly
c. went to money lenders 26. At Christmas, even the elderly people paint
d. moving from one place to another aimlessly the town red.
18. Raju was left alone to face the music. a. indulge in rioting b. to have a lively time
a. to bear the criticism c . Paint the houses red d. spill red wine
b. to listen to a favourable comment 27. Sumit had to look high and low before he
could find his scooter key.
c. to run away d. to compensate
a. Everywhere b. nowhere
19. They were offered six months’ rent in lieu of
notice to vacate the building. c. always d. somewhere
a. Inspite of b. in place of 28. Ram was left high and dry by his friends
when he lost all his money.
c. despite of d. in addition to
a. Isolated b. rejected
20. The possession of Kashmir is a bone of
contention between India and Pakistan. c. wounded d. depressed
a. a subject of peace b. a subject of trade 29. We should know the pros and cons of a thing
c. a subject of dispute d. a subject of exports before taking the final decision.
21. My friend turned a deaf ear to my tale of loss a. for and against a thing b. foul and fair
and refused to help me. c. Ups and downs d. former and latter
a. went far away b. listened carefully 30. The co-operation and esprit de corps
c. paid no heed d. turned his ear away between the soldiers and the officers was
directly responsible for their victory.
22. Rahul fought tooth and nail to save his
company. a. bravery b. loyalty c. unity d. adjustment
a. with weapons b. with all efforts 31. His dealings are all above board.
c. using unfair means a. simple b. open c. decent d. friendly
d. with strength and fury 32. He is the sort of man who would do anything
for a consideration.
23. He has made his mark in the field of science.
a. if he were paid to do it b. out of love
a. attained notoriety b. ruined his wealth
c. if he found some time merit in it
c. acquired wealth d. distinguished
himself d. out of sympathy
24. We should guard against green-eyed friends.
a. rich b. jealous
c. handsome d. enthusiastic

Page No. 2
33. The company has been hand to the new 41. The result of the examination dashed my
masters, lock, stock and barrel. hopes.
a. Completely b. financially a. Frustrate b. kill someone
c. administratively d. partially c. failed d. bring great happiness
34. Believe me, I am all at sea. 42. Don’t rely on him. He is a fair-weather friend.
a. Out of reach b. puzzled a. friendly only in good time
c. very happy d. drowning b. a successful friend
35. Just because he had won the competition, he c. a notable friend d. a jealous friend
should not ride the high horse. 43. The leader had the lion’s share of the booty.
a. Become abnormal b. appear arrogant a. the larger part b. the worthy part
c. Hate others d. indulge in dreams c. the smaller part d. the stronger part
36. We kept our fingers crossed till the final 44. The place gives a bird’s eye view of the green
results were declared. valley below.
a. felt scared b. was annoyed a. a beautiful view b. a narrow view
c. kept praying d. waited expectantly c. an overview d. an ugly view
37. The poor women do manual labour even 45. He always does things at the eleventh hour.
when they are in the family way.
a. To early b. too late
a. In a domestic manner b. unwell
c. immediately d. at the last moment
c. injured d. pregnant
46. A red letter day
38. Never take up a fool’s errand.
a. a dangerous day in one’s life
a. To go with a message
b. A sorrowful day in one’s life
b. a useless undertaking
c. An important or joyful occasion in one’s life
c. One who takes a message
d. Both a dangerous and sorrowful day in one’s
d. an observation life
39. The child pulled a long face when the sweets 47. On the spur of the moment
were over.
a. To act impulsively
a. look disappointed b. feel good
b. to ride a horse in a race
c. retreat d. run away
c. To act deliberately
40. All his efforts ended in smoke.
d. to act at the appointed time
a. To give no practical result b. to fall
48. To eke out
c. To catch fire
a. To subtract b. to supplement
d. ended in the destruction of the building
c. to etch d. to oust

Page No. 3
49. To be in the doldrums 58. Rank and file
a. To be in low spirits b. to be within doors a. Common people b. officers
c. To praise loudly d. to be in a crisis c. People of high rank d. army personnel
50. To keep the pot boiling 59. To have a jaundiced eye
a. To maintain interest b. to show anger a. To have fever b. to have jaundice
c. To heat d. to do experiments c. To lose colour d. to be prejudiced
51. Lump in the throat 60. To flog a dead horse
To be hoarse b. wind-pipe a. To whip a dead horse
c. food of the low type b. attempt to do the impossible
d. a highly emotional state c. Waste one’s efforts
52. In vogue d. to take advantage of a weakness
a. Total absence b. smooth 61. To die in harness
c. fair d. in fashion a. Premediated murder
53. A wild goose chase b. dying young in an accident
a. A violent chase b. to hunt c. To die while in service
c. Foolish and useless enterprise d. to be taken by surprise
d. to run fast 62. To feather one’s nest
54. To draw the long bow a. To make a residential house
a. To shoot b. to exaggerate b. something that lasts for a short time
c. to criticize d. to admire c. To profit in a dishonest way
55. Count on d. to take advantage
a. As a result of b. ceremonially 63. To steal the show
c. Depend on d. to wait for the benefactor a. Disappeared form the show
56. A bird of passage b. won everybody’s praise
a. A flying bird c. Crept into the show
b. one who stays for a short time d. stole something from the show
c. A unreliable person d. bed time 64. Turn down
57. Pyrrhic victory a. Sent back b. twisted around
a. Permanent victory b. defeat c. refused d. handed over
c. Easy victory d. victory at high cost

Page No. 4
65. To take to one’s heels c. To be idifferent d. to disclose a secret
a. To walk slowly b. to run away 74. To beat the bush
c. to march forward d. to hop and jump a. Wander across the words
66. To drink life to the lees b. speak in a haphazard manner
a. To have the best of fun and fortune c. Speak in a round-aabout manner
b. To enjoy a life of drinking and dancing d. make use of irrelevant reference
c. To have a life full of adventures 75. To strain every nerve
d. To have the best of life a. To make utmost efforts
67. Down in the mouth b. to feel weak and tired
a. Very weak b. unable to speak c. To be a diligent worker
c. very depressed d. very confused d. to be methodical in work
68. To smell a rat 76. A forlorn hope
a. To smell foul b. to see a rat a. A plan which has remote chances of success.
c. To chase a rat d. to be suspicious b. hope of a single person
69. In cold blood c. Hope of a silly person
a. Angrily b. deliberately d. Hope about unforeseeable fortune
c. excitedly d. slowly 77. Raw deal
70. To give up a. Unripe fruit
a. To stop b. to learn ‘ b. early stage of business
c. to continue d. to start c. Unjust treatment d. contract not finally
decided
71. Put off
78. In abeyance
a. Cancelled b. postponed
a. In absence b. in no time
c. advanced d. announced
c. in suspension d. in a nutshell
72. White elephant
79. To get at
a. Very huge item
a. To reach b. to proceed
b. costly but useless possession
c. to advance d. to escape
c. Very expensive investment
80. A fool’ s paradise
d. useful material
a. To live in the past
73. To take someone for a ride
b. to have happy dreams
a. To deceive someone
c. To live in illusions
b. to give a ride to someone
d. paradise of idiots
Page No. 5
81. An axe to grind 90. With might and main
a. To indulge in evil conspiracies a. A big blow b. a hard blow
b. To catch a fish in disturbed water c. With full vigour d. penetrating
c. To make a personal profit out of a situation 91. An iron will
d. To aggravate the situation a. Strong enemity b. strong determination
82. To bell the cat c. To try one’s best d. vigilant
a. To tie bell to a cat’s neck 92. Uphill task
b. To take lead in danger a. Easy task b. difficult task
c. To be alert of the enemy d. To make noise c. interesting task d. peaceful task
83. Rainy days 93. To turn the tables
a. Late hours of the night b. Unlucky time a. To expose
c. Critical time in any situation b. To change the situation completely
d. Small hours of the morning c. To escape d. To profit in a dishonest way
84. The alpha and the omega Q94. Turn a blind eye
a. The beginning and the end b. A nice act (a) Not able to see the obvious truth
c. Assorted items d. Very costly (b) Hide the ugly truth from someone
items (c) Pretend not to notice
85. Lay bare (d) Stay away from bad habits
a. Expose b. take off all clothes Q95. Up a blind alley
c. destroy d. exploit (a) Hiding something intentionally from another
86. Stem from person
a. Kill b. induce (b) Not warning a person who is in danger
c. originate d. ruin (c) One can enjoy thrills only if one takes risk
87. Stir up a hornet’s nest (d) Following a course of action that is certain to
lead to an undesirable outcome
a. Money laid by b. create trouble
Q96. Blood is thicker than water
c. Neighbourhood d. well-mannered people
(a) Relations are more important than merit
88. To get along
(b) All crimes are not equal so punishment for
a. To manage to b. to go with
murder is not same as that of theft
c. To leave d. work helplessly
(c) Family relationships and loyalties are the
89. Make up strongest and most important ones
a. Get about b. leave (d) Deceit from a family member hurts more than
c. reveal d. reconcile being cheated by strangers
Page No. 6
Q97. The squeaky wheel gets the grease (b) One is discharged from a hospital or mental
asylum
(a) The most noticeable problems are the ones
most likely to get attention (c) One can leave
(b) One unfortunate child always keep getting (d) One is free of imprisonment
punished Q103. There’s no such thing as a free lunch
(c) The person who complains the most is hated (a) It isn’t possible to get something for nothing
the most
(b) There is no genuine kindness is this world
(d) The favourite child or student gets the most
attention (c) Even a mother will expect something for her
love
Q98. Run out of steam
(d) Those who are tempted by free things, end up
(a) To lose impetus or enthusiasm spending more
(b) To work quickly like a machine Q104. Beating about the bush
(c) To give up easily (a) Not accepting the real issue and solving
(d) No more money to spend minor problems
Q99. To go for broke (b) To avoid getting to the point of an issue
(a) To risk everything in an all-out effort (c) To run around in circles and never
accomplishing results
(b) Failure in relationship or partnership
(d) Avoiding coming face to face with a problem,
(c) Losing all money in an effort to revive a
escaping
failing business
Q105. To beat a dead horse
(d) To start again after failing in a business
(a) To revive interest in hopeless issue
Q100. To sleep with the fishes
(b) A cruel master will expect a slave to work
(a) Always be in a dream world
even after his death
(b) To make absurd excuses
(c) To extract everything from a resource till it
(c) To sleep peacefully (d) To be dead fails
Q101. To go down like a lead balloon (d) Doing a cruel act
(a) Losing all the money while gambling Q106. To chew someone out
(b) An idea on which one has a lot of hope, but it (a) To bore someone by talking ceaselessly
falls
(b) To discourage someone who is going to start
(c) Failure in business or venture a new venture
(d) A speech, proposal, or joke that is poorly (c) Reprimand someone severely
received
(d) To save someone
Q102. To get one’s walking papers
(a) One has the right to entry within a country or
community
Page No. 7
Q107. To chip on his shoulder (d) To climb on a rope
(a) To have huge responsibilities on one’s Q114. On tiptoe
shoulders (a) Greatly excited (b) To be disappointed
(b) Uniform decorated with stars and medals (c) To be in a confusing state
(c) Wearing your battle scars like medals (d) To be doubtful
(d) Holding a grudge or grievance that readily Q115. Have kittens
provokes a fight
(a) To pet kittens (b) Be worried
Q108. To shoot the breeze
(c) To have a successful outcome
(a) To do random acts hoping one will be
successful (d) To be carefree

(b) To have a casual conversation Q116. While away

(c) To release stomach gases (a) Spend time uselessly

(d) To brag about some mild achievement (b) To utilize time efficiently

Q109. Get someone’s goat (c) To be on time (d) To be late

(a) To improvise (b) To annoy someone Q117. Turn up

(c) To do something special for someone (a) Disappear (b) Appear

(d) To explain something to someone in a very (c) To take a right side (d) To get lost
clear way with details Q118. By a long chalk
Q110. Spick and Span (a) Majority (b) Occasionally
(a) High and Low (b) Dark and Light (c) Suddenly (d) A case of emergency
(c) Neat and Clean (d) Happy and Sad 119. A purple weight –
Q111. The thin end of the wedge A. a dark spot
(a) In strict vigilance B. a blemish in otherwise good work
(b) Start of harmful development C. multicolored decoration
(c) Be aware of the trick D. ornate portion in a literary work
(d) Not a worthy possession 120. A pyrrhic victory –
Q112. Get your walking papers A. a victory which is not possible
(a) Compromise (b) Get fired from the job B. devastating victory
(c) To be received gracefully C. a victory that brings more loss than gains
(d) To sign on papers D. a quid pro quo
Q113. Know the ropes
(a) Unable to understand (b) Main support
(c) To understand the details
Page No. 8
121. A quid pro quo – 128. Fights shy of –
A. Something done in revenge or retaliation A. afraid of B. frightened
B. give up C. avoids from a feeling of mistrust
C. selfless service D. quarrels bitterly with
D. selfish act of revenge 129. Sink or swim
122. Under a cloud – a) Start a swimming training
A. experiencing cloudy weather b) Stay dead or alive
B. enjoying favourable luck c) Fail or succeed entirely by one’s own efforts
C. under suspicion D. under observation d) To live or die
123. Flogging a dead horse- 130. Know the ropes
A. repeating our request a) Have a lot of knowledge about threads
B. making him see reason b) Remain silent in one’s comfort zone
C. beating about the bush c) Get involved in an avoidable fight
D. wasting time in useless effort d) Be informed about the details of a situation or
task
124. Face the music –
131. cut the mustard
A. get finished B. get reprimanded
a) Operate in a satisfactory manner
C. feel sorry D. listen to the music
b) Achieve goals in unconventional ways
125. Sweeping statement-
c) Expand the horizon with a broader perspective
A. rash statement
d) Look out for minute details
B. unpremeditated statement
132. Vote with one’s feet
C. thoughtless statement
a) Cover a good distance by one feet
D. generalized statements
b) Participate in elections by hook and crook
126. To a hair –
c) To show one’s displeasure by walking out
A. vaguely B. to some extent
d) Get engulfed in a lot of activities at the same
C. exactly D. not the like of
time
127. Let the grass grow under one’s feet –
133. Bell the cat
A. to accept responsibility
a) Deprived of basic fundamental rights
B. to engage in useless talk
b) To undertake a risky or impossible task
C. to be trifled with
c) To behave cruelly with cat
D. to remain idle
d) Love someone’s cat

Page No. 9
134. Touch and go d) Participate in an unconventional way
a) A desired outcome possible but very uncertain 140. To pour oil on troubled waters
b) A venture started secretly a) To initial conversation with a stranger
c) Participate in time restraining activities b) Sideline someone because of understanding
d) Waste of time c) Spread the existing dispute
135. A Benjamin’s portion d) To make peace on a dispute or disagreement
a) A scientific part 141. Open Pandora’s Box
b) Leftover part after use a) Build momentum to wave path for immediate
success
c) A large portion
b) Ruling out the myths about a mystery
d) Curse someone
c) To find a source of great troubles and
136. To put one’s hand to plough
problems
a) Start an agricultural venture
d) To everyone happy by distributing the share
b) Take care a lot many things at the same time equally
c) To participate in a fun event 142. Give cold shoulder
d) To set to work a) intentionally ignore someone
137. Reading between the lines b) Had a monstrous fight with someone
a) Nerd’s paradise c) To spread a false rumor about someone
b) Look for a meaning that is implied rather than d) To accept defeat without even trying
explicitly stated
143. Break the ice
c) Be present at the right moment in a meeting
a) Point out someone’s fault deliberately
d) Enhance your skill set in an unconventional
b) Point out distress among a specific community
way
c) To initiate a social conversation or interaction
138. Beating about the bush
d) To make arrangement for a feast
a) Avoid the main topic
144. It takes two to tango
b) To disclose a secret
a) Restrict the movement
c) Remove obstacle from your way
b) Went on a trip in a group of two
d) Being dedicated towards a greater goal
c) To hear rumors about something or someone
139. To move heaven and earth
d) Actions and communications need more than
a) Sway the momentum to turn the table
one person
b) To do everything you can to achieve something
c) Rely on preconceived notions to get the work
done

Page No. 10
145. Icing on the cake d) To make something using forest based raw
materials.
a) To learn something formally
151. Be in the black
b) An attractive but inessential addition or
enhancement. a) To be sick.
c) To follow the rules strictly b) To get involved in a legal hassle.
d) To make something useful by using waste c) To attend a funeral.
products d) To make more than the expenditure
146. Devil’s advocate 152. Give stick
a) An accomplice in crime a) To help b) To praise
b) Someone who presents a counter-argument c) To punish d) To criticize
c) Someone who supports a criminal 153. Chew the fat
d) A cruel person a) To eat tasty food
147. Blessing in disguise b) To chat or gossip for a long time
a) Something good that isn’t recognized at first c) To work hard d) To engage in a quarrel
b) A talented person c) A kindhearted 154. Bread and butter
person
a) Edible items b) Itemized deductions
d) Something which was not expected
c) Start afresh d) Main source of income
148. Cat got your tongue
155. Bury the hatchets
a) Speechless b) One who talks a lot
a) Risk your integrity to get the work done
c) One who is scared of very small things
b) Assign significant importance to someone
d) One who is daring to take risks
c) End a conflict and become friendly
149. Read the riot act
d) Kill an enemy
a) To reprimand someone harshly.
156. Bed of thorns
b) To learn something formally.
a) Full of difficulties b) Extreme patriotism
c) To ask someone to know the rules properly
before making a comment. c) Supporting anti-incumbency movements

d) To follow the rules strictly. d) Work half-heartedly towards a definite goal

150. Out of the woods 157. Back on one’s feet

a) Lacking in knowledge. a) Venturing into different avenues

b) To have passed a dangerous phase b) To be healthy again after sickness

successfully. c) Portray sophisticated tantrums
c) To be reduced to a shadow of one’s former d) Early taste of success
self.

Page No. 11
158. Bronx cheer b) A talented person who is chained by his
circumstances.
a) To cheer with vigour
c) A person who is considered a doyen in his
b) To punish someone
field.
c) To cheer sarcastically
d) A person whose capabilities are limited to a
d) To cheer for an opponent team recognizing particular field.
their play
164. Run helter-skelter
159. Neck of the woods
a) Risking life for unnecessary adventures
a) A thickly forested area
b) Dream about tidy situations
b) To be in deep trouble
c) Reaching the venue at the last moment
c) Just the beginning of something
d) A carelessly hurried situation
d) A neighbourhood
165. Throw out of gears
160. Beet red
a) Get excited about unplanned adventures
a) To thrash someone mercilessly
b) Lose control overgrowth
b) To be embarrassed or angry
c) Disturb the working of the existing system
c) To be saddened by a bitter experience
d) Speed up the growth
d) To beat the opponent by a good margin
166. Turn the tables
161. Kitty corner
a) Get into an argument b) Reverse the
a) A place where useless stuff is stored. situation
b) A place assigned to someone who is c) Showing aggressive characteristics
important.
d) Disturbing the working of the existing system
c) A place that is diagonally opposite to the given
167. Quite the thing
place.
a) Very fashionable and popular
d) A place that is isolated and located far away.
b) Friendly attitude towards relatives
162. Get the boot
c) Audacious mind
a) Join the Military
d) Significant importance
b) Get promoted
168. All mouth no trousers
c) Get fired
a) A poor man
d) Do the preparatory work for a task to be
accomplished b) To talk boastfully without any intention of
acting on one’s words
163. Ace in the hole
c) An empty threat
a) A crucial resource that is hidden till its use is
required. d) A responsible man

Page No. 12
169. Be in the air (c) The most important aspects or practical
details of a subject or situation
(a) Harmful gaseous effluents from a factory.
(d) Some people are born tough
(b) To fly like a bird or a plane.
175. To quit on someone
(c) When an emotion or idea is on everyone's
mind. (a) To fire someone from a job.
(d) To be likely to happen. (b) To cheat with someone.
170. Children should be seen and not heard (c) To give up on a difficult person.
(a) The voice of children is often drowned in (d) To stop helping someone, especially when,
company of adults. the support is needed.
(b) Some children will seek attention by crying. 176. Excuse my French
(c) Children should not speak in the presence of (a) Used to apologize for swearing.
adults. (b) Said when one cannot speak the language of
(d) Those children are likable who dress neatly. the other person correctly.
171. Ease somebody's mind (c) Used to make a flimsy excuse.
(a) Alleviate someone's anxiety. (d) Used when you give up easily.
(b) Listen to somebody's grievances. 177. Chicken out
(c) Have the capacity to understand the other (a) Quickly move from one position to another in
person's thoughts. a game of chess or war.
(d) Keep thinking about some person. (b) Be a lover of non-vegetarian delicacies.
172. An axe to grind (c) Be easily confused over small issues.
(a) One cannot cut wood with a blunt axe. (d) To decide not to do something because you
are too frightened.
(b) To have important jobs to do.
178. A bad hair day
(c) Have an ulterior motive.
(a) A day which has a bad start will eventually
(d) A weapon is useful only when it is sharp.
become better.
173. At the eleventh hour
(b) A day on which everything seems to go
(a) At the last moment (b) Very late at night. wrong.
(c) At a very odd time. (c) Don't worry over hair loss or else you lose
(d) Luckily have sufficient time to wrap up things. more.

174. The nitty-gritty (d) A day when you forget to comb your hair.

(a) The low level dirty job which is left to the

lowermost subordinates.
(b) Those with grit and determination will not be
defeated

Page No. 13
179. A penny for your thoughts 184. A fool's paradise
a. A way of asking what someone is thinking. (a) An average person appears smart in
company of fools.
b. Another way of saying pennywise pound
foolish. (b) A state of happiness based on a person's not
knowing about potential trouble.
c. An idea is less worth a penny unless it is
executed successfully. (c) A paradise is ruined when fools enter it.
d. Willing to share a secret only at a price. (d) Pretending that everything is going fine when
actually all is being lost.
180. All in a day’s work
185. Get on somebody's nerves
a. Even in routine work one can find instances of
fun. (a) To calm an anxious person (b) To be an
irritant
b. Something unusual or difficult accepted as
part of someone’s normal routine. (c) Be angry with yourself but take out the anger
on somebody else.
c. A lot of work which is done in just one day.
(d) To crack jokes at somebody’s expense.
d. Work all day on a job that you love.
186. Eyebrow raising
181. Blessing in disguise
(a) Pretend to like something or someone even
a. Good fortune always follows bad; that is the
when you dislike.
way of fate.
(b) Look up in defiance as a show of rebellion.
b. An apparent misfortune that eventually has
good results. (c) A person finally getting due punishment.
c. If a curse makes one stronger than it is a (d) Something which surprises, shocks, or
blessing. offends people.
d. A life of hardship does wonders for a person’s 187. Be glad to see the back of
character. (a) Be always welcome whenever you go bad
182. A picture paints a thousand words. (b) Talk bad about somebody you hate behind
a. An image of a subject conveys its meaning their back.
more effectively than a description does. (c) Be happy when a person leaves.
b. No words can do justice to masterpiece. (d) Feel happy that you backed off from a
c. A great poem or script recreates a completer fruitless plan.
imagery. 188. With bated breath
d. Your mind will create fanciful images. (a) In dispute
183. To bid defiance (b) In anxiety
a. To disregard recklessly b. To apologize (c) In full detail
c. To act in a like manner d. To bribe (d) In happy mood

Page No. 14
189. Add insult to injury 194. Level playing field
(a) To further a loss with mockery or to worsen a. A game played where the weaker side is given
an unfavourable situation. an advantage to make it a fair fight.
(b) A disgrace becomes worse when friends and b. A situation in which everyone has a fair and
family disown you. equal chance of succeeding.
(c) The world usually slanders a fallen person c. A game where you progress level by level.
rather than help him. d. A game which appears unfair but is actually
(d) A suffering is compounded if you are hurt at fair.
the same place again. 195. To gird up the loins
190. Tie the knot (a) To be unable to decide
(a) Get into a fight. (b) Get angry. (b) To one's liking
(c) Get more complicated. (d) Get married. (c) To be at strife (d) To prepare for hard work
191. Easier said than done 196. Evil twin
(a) A task which is expected to be difficult turns (a) Getting punished for the deeds of another,
out to be easy.
person who is just like you.
(b) Intentionally tell some one that a difficult task (b) An imaginary double humorously invoke to
is easy. explain or excuse uncharacteristic or
(c) Be more easily talked about than put into reprehensible behaviour.
practice. (c) When two people are alike then one will be
(d) Once a difficult task is done it feels easy. good and the other evil.
192. A red rag to a bull (d) To show behaviour which randomly switches
between good and evil.
(a) A few inspirational words can do wonderful
things. 197. Be in the red
(b) An object, utterance, or act which is certain to (a) Be the top performer
provoke someone. (b) To be in a loss or debt
(c) A signal or symbol used to warn a person. (c) Be in the list of people who are never invited.
(d) All prepared and waiting for the signal to s (d) Be in the bad books of a person.
tart.
198. In cahoots with
193. Be under no illusions
(a) A marriage made in heaven.
(a) Not be duped by a cheater.
(b) A group of criminals
(b) Get out of a magic spell.
(c) With lot of determination
(c) Don't have the habit of daydreaming.
(d) In an alliance or partnership with
(d) Be fully aware of the true state of affairs.

Page No. 15
199. Come True B. To keep people at a distance
a. Pray hard for your wished C. To interfere in someone’s affairs
b. To happen in the way you had hoped. D. To regret in vain that can’t be undone.
c. Day dream about success. 206. Pass the buck
d. He finally proved that you were right. A. To tell people about someone’s secrets
200. Catch red-handed B. To pass the blame
a. Apprehend someone in the course of C. Everyone gets a chance eventually
wrongdoing D. Once in a life-time
b. Successfully accomplish a difficult 207. Put a brave face
c. Catch someone with colour on his hands A. To work hard and stay up very late night
d. Be warned of imminent danger. B. To feel very sad
201. Spill the beans C. To act confident in a difficult situation
A. To tell people about someone’s secrets D. To commit a fraud
B. As a low priority
208. Take a back seat
C. Everyone gets a chance eventually A. An agreement without conditions
D. Once in a life-time B. Enjoy different opportunities at a single time
202. To feel blue C. Take a subordinate position
A. To work hard and stay up very late night D. Worried for frivolous things
B. To feel very sad 209. A Hobson’s choice
C. To have faith in god A. Something is better than nothing
D. To commit a blunder
B. To give credit to a disagreeable person
203. No strings attached C. The only choice
A. An agreement without conditions D. To sniff something wrong
B. Enjoy different opportunities at a single time 210. To lose ground to somebody/something
C. To be judged as acceptable A. An skeptical person
D. Worried for frivolous things B. To keep people at a distance
204. A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush C. To interfere in someone’s affairs
A. Something is better than nothing
D. To lose a sustained share/position
B. To give credit to a disagreeable person
C. Only just D. To sniff something wrong
205. A doubting Thomas
A. An skeptical person
Page No. 16
211. To kick the bucket 217. Going to the dogs
A. To pass away A. Reaching a bad state
B. To keep people at a distance B. Reaching success after much efforts
C. To interfere in someone’s affairs C. Very annoyed
D. To lose a sustained share/position D. To sniff something wrong
212. A long face 218. A storm in a tea-cup
A. Something is better than nothing A. To see signs of plague epidemic
B. To look disappointed for something B. To get back to previous state without results
C. The only choice C. To hide oneself
D. To sniff something wrong D. Worried for frivolous things
213. Make someone the scapegoat for something 219. A fly in the ointment
A. To make to bear the sins for others A. To bring good luck
B. Enjoy different opportunities at a single time B. To rush for something
C. Take a subordinate position C. To speak indirectly or evasively
D. Worried for frivolous things D. A spoilsport
214. Icing on the cake 220. A leopard can’t/doesn’t change its spots
A. Getting extra than expectations A. Hard to live alone
B. To feel very sad B. Hard to change a character
C. To act confident in a difficult situation C. Impossible to get success
D. To commit a fraud D. A situation of lawlessness
215. Keep your chin up 221. Take something with a pinch of salt
A. To tell people about someone’s secrets A. Believing something with a doubt
B. To encourage someone in his bad times B. To keep people at a distance
C. Everyone gets a chance eventually C. To interfere in someone’s affairs
D. Once in a life-time D. To lose a sustained share/position
216. To poke one’s nose into someone’s affairs 222. To cut corners
A. More people are required to finish a difficult A. Something is better than nothing
task
B. To look disappointed for something
B. Scarcely available C. To take short-cuts
C. To interfere in someone’s affairs D. To sniff something wrong
D. Wining everything coming your way

Page No. 17
223. From the horse’s mouth 229. To burn the candle at both ends
A. To make to bear the sins for others A. To work hard and stay up very late night
B. From an authoritative or dependable source B. To contribute money for a party
C. Take a subordinate position C. To have faith in god
D. Worried for frivolous things D. To commit a blunder
224. On the rocks 230. Every dog has its day
A. likely to fail A. Almost too late B. As a low priority
B. To feel very sad C. Everyone gets a chance eventually
C. To act confident in a difficult situation D. Once in a life-time
D. To commit a fraud 231. die in harness.
225. To go overboard A) die with honour B) die on a horse back
A. To tell people about someone’s secrets C) die while still working D) die in the battle
field
B. To encourage someone in his bad times
232. take people in.
C. To do too much of something
A) amuse people B) understand people
D. Once in a life-time
C) cheat people
226. Bend over backwards
D) accommodate guests
A. To try very hard to do something, especially
for someone 233. Rift in the lute.
B. To keep people at a distance A) brought about disharmony
C. To interfere in someone’s affairs B) brought about a disciplined atmosphere
D. To regret in vain that can’t be undone. C) caused unnecessary worries
227. A blessing in disguise D) caused a pleasant atmosphere
A. A favourable situation under the pretense of 234. Beat about the bush.
an unlucky one A) Put any blame on others
B. To give credit to a disagreeable person B) pretend to be unaware of the matter
C. Only just D. To sniff something wrong C) approach the matter in a round about way
228. Best of both worlds D) try to impress me with your arguments
A. To win a victory over 235. Making a mountain of a molehill.
B. Enjoy different opportunities at a single time a) Exaggerating b) boasting
C. To be judged as acceptable C) taking undue advantage of a favourable
D. Worried for frivolous things opportunity
D) giving great importance to tries

Page No. 18
236. Has no bearing D) share the responsibility
A) Has no relationship with 244. It is high time
B) is not affected by A) auspicious moment B) desired occasion
C) provides no evidence to C) appropriate time D) already late
D) has no impact on 245. At the eleventh hour
237. Take the rough with the smooth. A) one hour before twelve B) right at the end
A) be tough in order to be successful C) at the last minute D) when in
trouble
B) use pleasant words to make things smooth
246. red tape.
C) accept unpleasant as well as pleasant things
A) accepting bribes B) formal procedures
D) make unpleasant things better
C) corruption D) dishonesty
238. came to a head
247. like a fish out of water.
A) reached a crisis B) settled amicably
A) disappointed B) frustrated
C) took a turn for the better
C) uncomfortable D) homeless
D) resulted in a senseless violence
248. backseat driving.
239. over head and ears
A) teasing others
A) secretly B) openly
B) offering advice without responsibility
C) completely D) sufficiently
C) interfering in others affairs
240. see through the design
D) being critical of the work being done by others
A) learn the aim B) know the antecedents
249. bee in bonnet.
C) know the secret D) be aware of the trick
A) crazy/obsessed with one thing
241. to a hair.
B) ambitious C) overconfident
A) not at all B) vaguely
D) frustrated
C) to some extent D) exactly
250. hard of hearing.
242. in a nutshell
A) inaudible
A) as objectively as possible
B) disinterested
B) in a simple and brief manner
C) deaf D) insensitive
C) an actual experience described vividly
251. a real white elephant.
D) to take into consideration
A) an expensive one B) a big one
243. carry the can.
C) a useless one D) a rare one
A) get into trouble B) accept the blame
C) face the repercussions

Page No. 19
252. chequered career C) ideal seeking D) genuine effort
A) indulged in odd jobs (261) Leave no stone unturned
B) a career which helped him make lot of money (a) Search for the hidden treasure
C) a variety of jobs and experiences (b) Do a futile task
D) is jobless (c) Be known for achieving a tremendous feat
253. carried off his feet. (d) Try every possible course of action in order to
achieve something
A) became delirious B) danced on his toes
262. I am fed up with his false promises.
C) was dizzy D) surprised
a) Furious b. disgusted
254. in a flutter
c. pleased d. hopeful
A) frightened B) very angry
263. Many people in our country like to feather
C) in a jovial mood D) in a state of nervousness
their own nest form the money they raise for
255. ended in smoke. social work.
A) Fructified gradually B) came to nothing A) Provide comforts in one’s house
C) were discarded B) Enrich oneself by dishonest means
D) were partially carried out C) Achieve something and be proud of it
256. turned the tables D) Make one’s family comfortable
A) behaved hospitably towards 264. Don’t take it seriously. He was simply pulling
B) hit your leg.

C) created obstacle for A) speaking in a harsh tone

D) changed possible defeat into victory B) playing a joke with someone

257. held in camera. C) trying to comfort someone

A) a secret B) in strict vigilance D) scolding someone for nothing

C) not open to the public D) amidst great 265. He has set up his business now as he knows
security the ins and outs of it.

258. prodigal son a. difficulties b. usefulness

A) given into bad habits B) poor and miserly c. importance d. details

C) extravagant D) step-son 266. After getting the news of his promotion, he

was in high spirits.
259. tight corner
a. drunk b. joyful
A) in a closed room B) in a small house
c. hopeful d. mad
C) in a difficult situation D) in a meadow
260. wild goose chase.
A) fruitful hunting B) futile search
Page No. 20
267. A friend is no friend if he leaves you in the d. to handle a difficult situation
lurch. 274. get out of hand
a. make a fool of someone a. to act irresponsibly
b. leave someone in a helpless condition b. to become uncontrollable
c. take advantage of someone c. to lose courage d. to be indecisive
d. leave for one’s own work 275. to give the slip
268. Take heart
a. to hide b. to hit someone
a. to rebuke b. to feel grieved c. to escape d. to keep low
c. to assess the situation d. to take courage 276. In a nutshell
269. get a gold star a. in serious trouble b. in disgrace
a. to compliment someone c. in control d. in short
b. to earn a merit point for doing well 277. A fish out of water
c. to get killed in war a. in the absence of something b. feeling sick
d. to obtain possession of something
c. in unfamiliar circumstances d. ready to die
270. Donkey’s years 278. a sea change
a. having long ears b. a very long time a. a fast change b. a radical change
c. instantly d. once in a while c. a nominal change d. a slow change
271. the icing on the cake 279. A stone's throw
a. something that delays action a. a short distance b. an easy task
b. Something that is essential but difficult c. a faraway place d. a memorable place
c. something that makes one happy
280. a lot on your plate
d. something that makes a good situation even a. having a large meal
better
b. having many responsibilities
272. The whole nine yards
c. having something which causes envy
a. An act of kindness
d. having wealth in abundance
b. an enjoyable situation
281. a safe pair of hands
c. An essential part
a. a person who does many jobs
d. the entirety of something
b. a happy person
273. hit the nail on the head
c. a person who guards someone
a. to assess the situation immediately
d. a reliable person
b. to make the precisely correct point
c. to hit someone on the head

Page No. 21
282. A hot potato a. to state something clearly
a. an offensive remark b. a tasty snack b. to make something unsubstantial
c. a memorable thing d. a controversial issue c. to consume only the fleshy part
283. to leave no stone unturned d. to reveal the hidden structure
a. to comprehensively arrange things 289. A wolf in sheep’s clothing
b. to make all possible efforts a. A celebrity dressed as a commoner
c. to completely renovate an old building b. A scholar learning how to act as the fool
d. to fully revise something produced c. A dangerous person pretending to be
harmless
284. to pigeon hole
d. A cunning man in a leather coat
a. to blindly accept someone
290. Flash in the pan
b. to typecast someone
a. Gold discovered only once during panning
c. to call someone names
b. An early promise that fails to materialize
d. to hurriedly reject someone
c. Something that offers hope, like a light in a
285. to hold a brief for
tunnel
a. to support someone's cause
d. Sudden discovery or a surprise element
b. to write a speech for someone
291. Keep under one's hat
c. to wait for someone
(a) Keep all your wealth in your home
d. to upset someone's campaign
(b) To keep something a secret
286. to blow hot and cold
(c) Steal and hide something
a. to exhale heat and inhale cold
(d) Take care of somebody else's valuables given
b. to show favour and disfavour alternately to you for safe keeping
c. to work like bellows and blow air 292. Hit the nail on the head
d. to be friendly and unfriendly at the same time a. drive a nail into a wall
287) Get up on the wrong side of the bed b. hurt a person by telling the truth
(a) Make a wrong decision and regret it for the c. say or do something exactly right
rest of the life
d. punish someone for a heinous crime
(b) Start the day in a bad mood, which continues
293. Back seat driving
all day long
a. Commenting on players from the sidelines
(c) Have a sleepless night especially due to
worries b. Interfering in affairs without having knowledge
(d) Suffer an uncomfortable stay at an unfamiliar c. Instructing husbands over the phone about
pl ace what to buy
288. to make no bones about d. Attempting to teach a cab driver how to drive.
Page No. 22
294. Carry a chip on one's shoulder d. to politely ask for someone's headphones
a. Carrying multiple stars over the lapel 299. Get down to brass tacks
b. Entertaining a grudge over a past event a. come back to the tracks and start again
c. Having a plate inserted to fix the collar bone b. become angry about something that is not
done
d. Moving daintily across rooms
c. start taking up the most important facts of a
295. “If it’s not one thing, it’s another.
situation
a. when one thing goes wrong. then another, and
d. examine the thumb tacks used to fix a notice
another
300. Go against the grain.
b. when we entertain one guest, then there are
many more coming a. Something that is ugly and unpopular
c. when we know a cause, then there isn’t b. Something in conflict with one's value system
another to be looked for c. Something that we can accept with difficulty
d. when a machine is not functional, it makes d. Something done deliberately
others also malfunction
301. To beat a dead horse
296. Don't count your chickens before they
hatch’’. a. A significant effort

a. do not count on something that is not going to b. A futile effort

happen c. A deliberate effort
b. do not wish for something that has not yet d. A joint effort
happened
302. Bite the bullet
c. do not count on a good timing that has not yet
a. to restrain yourself from doing something
happened
unpleasant
d. do not expect something good to happen
b. to force yourself to do something unpleasant
297. finding their feet
c. to amuse yourself by doing something
a. beginning to understand the work and feeling unpleasant
confident
d. to dislike yourself for having done something
b. getting comfortable and getting a good salary unpleasant
c. buying and using comfortable foot wear 303. Caught red-handed
d. making people fall at their feet, accepting a. To discover a murderer using the clues
defeat
b. To catch a thief who steals red paints
298. Lend me your ears.
c. To catch someone doing something illegal
a. to politely ask for someone's hearing-aid
d. To try to arrest someone without any evidence
b. to politely ask for someone's speakers
c. to politely ask for someone's full attention

Page No. 23
304. Always a bridesmaid never a bride 311. got the green light
a. Someone who always comes second 1. Got energy and motivation to do something
b. Someone who is born unlucky 2. Got the work started
c. Someone who fulfills his or her potential 3. Got fired for doing something
d. Someone who does not deserve to win 4. Got permission to go ahead with something
305. It's Greek to me 312. looking for a needle in a haystack.
a. incomprehensible b. incredible 1. Making a big deal of a small thing
c. intangible d. inevitable 2. Doing something impossible
306. to give someone the cold shoulder 3. Doing something secretly
a. ignore or show indifference 4. Doing something unimportant
b. deny someone comforting clothes 313. took heart.
c. serve cold meat to someone 1. Gathered courage 2. Felt depressed
d. bury someone in freezing cold 3. Overcame problems 4. Acted promptly
307. put one's cards on the table 314. with open arms.
a. to be able to continue b. to be honest 1. Warmly 2. Honourably
c. to accept defeat d. to deal a game of cards 3. Harmoniously 4. Promptly .
308. be the Devil’s advocate 315. Up in arms
a. to present a counter argument just for the 1. to be angry 2. to be nervous
sake of it 3. to be defensive 4. to be rude
b. to present an argument in favor of a well- 316. Work against the clock
known evil man
1. work with concentration
c. to represent an accused in a murder trial
2. work against all problems
d. to represent the devil as an advocate in witch
trials 3. work in great hurry

309. get a taste of your own medicine 4. work late in the night

a. be given the medicine meant for others 317. Run around in circles

b. be treated by the same doctor 1. to keep doing something without achieving

much
c. be given the same treatment that you have
given to others 2. to keep running to set a record

d. make, taste and take medicines for others 3. to work excessively hard by keeping two jobs

310. Off and on 4. to remain busy with your work

1. Periodically 2. Immediately
3. Rarely 4. Seldom
Page No. 24
318. Left out in cold 2. She was involved in many activities
1. to be ignored 2. to stand out 3. She had made a lot of risky investments
3. to be indecisive 4. to be criticized 4. She was suffering from many ailments
319. Bed of roses 326. for good.
1. An unforgettable moment 1. for a while 2. for new opportunities
2. A state of perplexity 3. for better income
3. An enjoyable state 4. forever
4. A difficult situation 327. fell flat.
320. Make a beeline for 1. could not be heard clearly
1. Make a line for honey 2. Go for freebies 2. appealed to the sentiments of the audience
3. Stand in a queue 4. Go straight to 3. impressed a lot 4. failed to make an impact
321. Touch and go 328. carried the day
1. Unchanging 2. Undoubted 1. acted as hosts
3. Unimportant 4. Uncertain 2. won a victory
322. above board. 3. made a guest appearance 4. participated
a. honest and frank 329. made a clean breast of it.
b. exceptionally talented 1. confessed his crime
c. bold and reckless 2. asked for a fresh shirt
d. smart and deceptive 3. took off his shirt
323. close shave. 4. blamed his companion
a. to lose all possessions 330. getting out of hand
b. to have no livelihood 1. not growing fast enough
c. nothing to eat 2. not in control anymore
d. a narrow escape 3. going to be handled soon
324. to die in harness 4. can be passed on to someone else
1. to continue occupation till death 331. To be thrown in at the deep end
2. to lead a life of comfort 1. need to do one thing at a time
3. to live in perpetual slavery 2. try to do too many things at the same time
4. to keep one's belongings safe 3. unable to do the given work
325. too many irons in the fire. 4. learn to do the difficult things too soon
1. She had too many clothes to iron

Page No. 25
332. The festival expenses are bound to ______ in 4. even though he has put on weight
my pocket. 338. Be left in the lurch
1. be out of the blue 2. give a clean chit 1. be tired of doing the same thing over and over
3. be upfront 4. make a dent again
333. To read between the lines 2. keep repeating something till it is accepted
1. to understand the implied meaning 3. be deserted when one is in trouble
2. to completely misunderstand the meaning 4. be sent to do work which one doesn't enjoy
3. to read with great difficulty 339. Go down in flames
4. to critically analyse a piece of writing 1. fail completely 2. get hit by a burning
cracker
334. To blaze a trail
3. get completely burnt 4. crash land an
1. to initiate something new
aeroplane
2. to act impulsively
340. Looking for a needle in a haystack.
3. to set fire to something
1. Doing something impossible
4. to complete a project
2. Making a big deal of a large thing
335. the last straw;.
3. Doing something secretly
1. she picked the last option available for her
4. Doing something unimportant
2. last straw available for anyone to pick up
341. Off and on
3. final irritant that made the situation
1. Rarely
unbearable
2. Seldom
4. only one straw was available for drinking the
juice 3. Immediately 4. Periodically
336. to steal her brother's thunder 342) Left out in cold
1. take away her brother's opportunities for jobs 1. to be ignored 2. to be criticised
2. pick up her brother's lucky charms to win 3. to stand out 4. to be indecisive
prizes 343) Work against the clock
3. get a big reward from her brother for her 1. work late in the night 2. work against all
achievement problems
4. get more recognition than her brother for their 3. work in great hurry 4. work with
success concentration
337. through thick and thin. 344. Playing with fire
1. when there was a lot of work to be done 1.taking a grave risk 2.lighting candies
2. in times of good and bad fortune 3.smoking a cigarette 4.provoking the crowd
3. on occasions when he had a lot of money

Page No. 26
345. All ears.
1.very attentive 2.talking loudly 353. through thick and thin.
3.covering their ears 4.making a lot of noise 1.under all circumstances 2.in happy moments
346. Swollen-headed. 3.in difficult times 4.in different
weathers
1.well-connected 2.unwell
354. ended in smoke.
3.conceited 4.famous
1.exceeded the budget 2.was delayed
347. Out of the woods.
3.yielded no result
1.discharged from hospital
4.was successfully completed
2.released from prison
355. keep the wolf from the door.
3.out of danger 4.out of the forest
1.avoid starvation 2.live on charity
348. Speaks volumes
3.keep wild animals away 4.be safe in her house
1. gives enough proof 2. boasts a lot
356. smelt a rat.
3. publicly announces 4. showers praise
1.detected something wrong
349. put the cart before the horse.
2. felt very pleased
1.perform many task simultaneously
3.became complaisant
2.postpone till the last moment
4.behaved arrogantly
3.do things spontaneously
357. a square peg in a round hole
4.do last things first
1.in a favourable situation
350. blow his top
2.unhappy and regretful
1.dismiss from job
3.a misfit in the environment
2.be very embarrassed
4.in a financial crisis
3.be very angry 4.attack fiercely
358. cut to the quick
351. walk the tight rope
1.imprisoned 2.severely punished
1. be very nervous 2. be very cautious
3.hurt intensely 4.dismissed
3. be well trained 4. be an expert
359. bolt from the blue
352. the sword of Damocles
1.a thunderstorm 2.an unexpected disaster
1. strict rules and regulations
3.a windfall 4.an ominous warning
2. an ill omen of death
360) Lend an ear
3. a constant threat
1.to pay attention to 2. to not make trouble
4. threat of physical harm
3.to force someone to listen
4.to not tell someone something
Page No. 27
361) On tenterhooks 370) Pull someone’s leg
1.unhappy 2.angry 1.trust someone 2.joke with someone
3.anxious 4.happy 3.get upset with someone
362) Lock, stock and barrel 4.tell someone a secret
1.immediately 2.partly 371) Actions speak louder than words
3.rarely 4.completely 1.take up a task that you cannot finish
363) In the pink 2.what you do is more important than what you
say
1.in pink dress 2.in the limelight
3.do something without planning
3.in a happy mood 4.in good health
4.look for solution in the wrong place
364) Out of the woods
372) Get out of hand
1.no longer in trouble 2.no longer in sight
1.get out of control 2.to complete a task
3.no longer famous 4.no longer young
3.give up something 4.get upset
365) Butterfly in the stomach
373) Costs an arm and a leg
1.being excited 2.being nervous
1.easy to obtain 2.rarely available
3.being angry 4.being hungry
3.nothing to lose 4.very expensive
366) Lead someone by the nose
374) At daggers drawn
1.to do the right thing
1.deceiving somebody 2.without hope
2.to force someone to take the blame
3.friendly with each other
3.to dominate someone
4.bitterly hostile
4.to quarrel with someone
375) To play ducks and drakes
367) Couch potato
1.to use recklessly 2.to change places
1.a person who sleeps all day
3.to be friendly 4.to act cleverly
2.a person who watches too much television
376. with open arms
3.a person who remains relaxed and calm
1. Honourably 2. Promptly
4.a person who is simple in nature
3. Warmly 4. Harmoniously
368) Pull yourself together
377. took heart
1.go to sleep 2.calm down
1. Gathered courage
3.try to understand 4.do a good job
2. Felt depressed
369) Give someone the cold shoulder
3. Overcame problems
1.ignore someone 2.give away a secret
4. Acted promptly
3.do something pointless 4.pamper someone

Page No. 28
378. to his heart’s content 386) Make a beeline for
1.only upto his legs 1. Make a line for honey 2. Go straight to
2.till he was completely sick 3. Stand in a queue 4. Go for freebies
3.as much as he wanted to 387) Till the cows come home
4.avoiding getting to wet 1. For a large part 2. For a long, long time
379) been nipped in the bud 3. In the evening 4. Till the work is finished
1.encouraged strongly 2.changed completely 388) Touch and go
3.dropped at an early stage 1. Unimportant 2. Undoubted
4.included somewhere else 3. Uncertain 4. Unchanging
380) in the running 389) Bed of roses
1. contesting the seat. 2. teaching yoga 1. A state of perplexity
3. giving speeches 4. jogging everyday 2. An unforgettable moment
381) turned a deaf ear 3. An enjoyable state
1. acknowledged 2.neglected 4. A difficult situation
3.a ccepted 4.presented 390) a close shave.
382) Handle with kid gloves 1. to have no livelihood 2. a narrow escape
1. to show someone your creativity 3. nothing to eat 4. to lose all
possessions
2. to accomplish something too ambitious
391) in the teeth of tough resistance.
3. to remove all hurdles to start something
1. in a state of uncertainty
4. to treat someone with extreme care
2. in direct opposition to
383) Run around in circles
3. in collaboration with
1. to remain busy with your work
4. in a short span of time
2. to keep running to set a record
392) at sea
3. to work excessively hard by keeping two jobs
1. in shock 2. confused
4. to keep doing something without achieving
much 3. sure 4. committed
384) Up in arms 393) above board
1. to be angry 2. to be rude 1. smart and deceptive
3. to be nervous 4. to be defensive 2. honest and frank
385) At the drop of a hat 3. bold and reckless
1. Instantly 2. Normally 4. exceptionally talented
3. Frequently 4. Usually
Page No. 29
394) made off 3. unable to do the given work
1. squandered 2. ran away with 4. try to do too many things at the same time
3. discovered 4. transferred 402) To read between the lines
395) for good. 1. to completely misunderstand the meaning
1. for better income 2. to read with great difficulty
2. for new opportunities 3. to critically analyse a piece of writing
3. for a while 4. forever 4. to understand the implied meaning
396) fell flat 403) To blaze a trail
1. failed to make an impact 1. to initiate something new
2. impressed a lot 2. to set fire to something
3. appealed to the sentiments of the audience 3. to complete a project 4. to act impulsively
4. could not be heard clearly 404) A dark horse
397) had too many irons in the fire. 1. an unknown genius
1. She had made a lot of risky investments 2. a horse of a fine breed
2. She was suffering from many ailments 3. a well kept secret
3. She was involved in many activities 4. an expected outcome
4. She had too many clothes to iron 405) Of the first water
398) to die in harness 1. of favorable opinion 2. of ancient origin
1. to keep one's belongings safe 3. of the best quality 4. of no significance
2. to live in perpetual slavery 406) To make castles in the air
3. to continue occupation till death 1. to be very ambitious
4. to lead a life of comfort 2. to create impossible dreams or hopes
399) made a clean breast of 3. to accomplish difficult tasks
1. confessed his crime 2. took off his shirt 4. to show signs of cowardice
3. blamed his companion 4. asked for a fresh 407) steal her brother's thunder
shirt 1. take away her brother's opportunities for jobs
400) Come rain or shine 2. get more recognition than her brother for their
1. when it does not rain 2. in the monsoon success
3. whatever happens 4. in bad weather 3. get a big reward from her brother for her
achievement
401) To be thrown in at the deep end
4. pick up her brother's lucky charms to win
1. learn to do the difficult things too soon
prizes
2. need to do one thing at a time
Page No. 30
408) through thick and thin. 3. to be very lazy 4. to feel giddy
1. when there was a lot of work to be done 415) Green Thumb
2. on occasions when he had a lot of money 1. to have talent in gardening
3. even though he has put on weight 2. to be envious
4. in times of good and bad fortune 3. to be angry
409) the last straw 4. to have talent in painting
1. she picked the last option available for her 416) To grease the palm
2. only one straw was available for drinking the 1. to give support 2. to bribe someone
juice 3. to cheat someone
3. last straw available for anyone to pick up 4. to give a massage
4. final irritant that made the situation 417) To bark up the wrong tree
unbearable
1. to be wrong about the reason for something
410) Be left in the lurch
2. to bury money under a tree and forget the
1. be tired of doing the same thing over and over place
again
3. to be mistaken about the name of a tree
2. be deserted when one is in trouble
4. to eat an unpalatable fruit by mistake
3. be sent to do work which one doesn't enjoy
418) To take the bull by the horns
4. keep repeating something till it is accepted
1. to face danger boldly 2. to escape unhurt
411) Go down in flames
3. to act foolishly
1. crash land an aeroplane
4. to enjoy risky sports
2. get hit by a burning cracker
419) Gift of the gab
3. fail completely
1. receive a precious gift
4. get completely burnt
2. achieve sudden greatness
412) Feather your own nest
3. have the ability to adapt
1. make money unfairly 2. win a competition
4. have the talent to speak well
3. be in a comfortable position
420) Turn a deaf ear
4. disturb others in their work
1. to pay attention 2. to listen carefully
413) Be an old hat
3. to make someone deaf 4. to pay no heed
1. an superstitious 2. be outdated
421) Take to task
3. be crazy 4. be foolish
1. to assign work 2. to rebuke
414) Head in the clouds
3. to praise 4. to give an award
1. to daydream 2. to be very tall

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422) Have one’s hands full 3. avoiding too much closeness
1. to be very rich 2. to be very clumsy 4. using one’s arm to measure length
3. to be very busy 4 to be very generous 431) Acid test
423) Face the music 1. a malicious way of taking revenge
1. face the enemy 2. enjoy the harmony 2. a test that shows how to harm someone
3. get appreciation 4. face the criticism 3. proof that an attack has been made
424) Pass the hat 4. definitive proof of truth or falsehood
1. to sell something 2. to collect money 432) Dark horse
3. to play a game 4. to avoid work 1. someone who is fond of horse racing
425) As the crow flies 2. some who has a wheatish complexion
1. to be uncertain 2. a long winding path 3. someone who breeds race horses
3. the shortest route 4. to be directionless 4. someone who unexpectedly succeeds
426) In a pickle 433) Hand in glove
1. in great pain 2. in jubiliation 1. working together in the same office
3. in trouble 4. in deep sorrow 2. wearing gloves while working
427) Red letter day 3. in partnership for something dishonest
1. a very special day 2. a very hot day 4. doing work in the garden
3. a frightful day 4. a very cold day 434) Late in the day
428) Through thick and thin 1. too old to work 2. too ripe to eat
1. to be scared of small dangers 3. too dark to see anything
2. passing through a thick forest 4. too delayed to be of any use
3. support under all circumstances 435) Draw a blank
4. to be hard- hearted in times of loss 1. be unsuccessful
429) Rule the Roost 2. be happy about something
1. to make all the decisions 3. be unable to sketch
2. to be prosperous but generous 4. be luck in a game
3. to frequently pick a quarrel 436) Bolt from the blue
4. to blindly follow others 1. winning after losing a game many times
430) At arm’s length 2. something sudden that happens unexpectedly
1. checking the length of fabric 3. someone who runs fast and wins a race
2. as close as one can touch 4. locking the doors to keep the rain out

Page No. 32
437) Left- handed compliment 1. one about whom it is easy to know everything
1. praise that is given directly 2. one who advises others to be frank and
unsecretive
2. insulting someone in front of others
3. one who is fond of reading even when
3. insulting remark appearing as praise
travelling
4. making fun of someone to tease them
4. one who has written an examination without
438) Put your best foot forward preparation
1. take care to dress well 445) Cross the bridge
2. walk very cautiously 1. deal with something only when necessary
3. try as hard as one can 4. check every step 2. not even think about the problem
439) At snail’s pace 3. not deal with the problem at all
1. do something very carefull 4. let someone else deal with the problem
2. be very persistent 446) Get a taste of your own medicine
3. do something very slowly 1.make, taste and take medicines for others
4. keep your moves secret 2.be treated by the same doctor
440) Beat around the bush 3.be given the medicine meant for others
1. avoid the topic 2. hide behind a bush 4.be given the same treatment that you have
3. make excuses 4. accept defeat given to others

441) Make no headway 447) Be the Devil’s advocate

1. check if the head can pass through 1.to present a counter argument just for the sake
of it
2. unable to progress ahead
2.to present an argument in favor of a well-
3. unable to overtake anyone
known evil man
4. forced to fix a new goal
3.to represent the devil as an advocate in witch
442) Make short work of something trials
1. reduce the size 2. dispose of quickly 4.to represent an accused in a murder trial
3. edit carefully 4. shorten some dress 448) Put one’s card on the table
443) In a nutshell 1.to be able to continue
1. add nuts into something 2.to deal a game of cards
2. put everything in a shell 3.to be honest 4.to accept defeat
3. packed very tightly 449) It’s Greek to me
4. express very briefly 1.incomprehensible 2.intangible
444) Be an open book 3.inevitable 4.incredible

Page No. 33
450) To give someone the cold shoulder 3. faced them boldly 4. prepared to fight
1.dry someone comforting clothes 458) When Rahul told everyone that he had
resigned his job, all the members in the family
2.ignore or show indifference
were at their wits’ end .
3.serve cold meat to someone
1. very serious 2. quite angry
4.bury someone in freezing cold
3. quite perplexed 4. absolutely satisfied
451) bell the cat
459) full of beans
1.tame some animals 2.warm the owners
1. being upset 2. lively and energetic
3.do the impossible task
3. full of crazy ideas 4. in good health
4.ring the bells regularly
460) This is strictly ______ but some changes are
452) is a hard nut to crack, going to happen in the company in the near
1.involves breaking nuts future.

2.is not interesting enough 1. off the rails 2. off the key

3.is difficult to solve 3. off the mark 4. off the record

4.needs a lot of work 461) For a long time he kept his wife in the dark
about the true nature of his job.
453) run into rough weather
1. in high position 2. in a dark place
1.experienced difficulties
3. in ignorance 4. in a locked room
2.brought cool breeze and rains
462) Pie in the sky
3.become stronger and firmer
1. something very small
4.become pleasant and cordial
2. something not possible
454) build castles in the air
3. difficult to find 4. an easy situation
1.make unfaithful friends 2. talk irresponsibly
463) sell like hot cakes
3.have unrealistic ideas
1. to face hardship 2. to sell quickly
4.make unplanned buildings
3. to agree fully 4. to deal with a
455) hit the sack
problem
1.Left work 2.went to bed
464) In the same boat
3.accepted defeat 4.kicked the sack
1. at the centre of attention
456) face the music.
2. in a superior position
1.accept the blame 2.put on earphones
3. in the same situation
3.listen to the songs 4.sing popular songs
4. in disgrace
457) The trouble makers took to their heels when
they saw the police coming.
1. hid themselves 2. ran away
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465) Now that Mr. Krishna Murthy has retired 3. A well-wisher 4. Difficult to find
from the company, his daughter is ______. 473) Spill the beans
1. in the doghouse 2. in the driver’s seat 1. Waste money 2. Perform magic
3. in the lap of luxury 4. in the pink 3. Give away a secret 4. Work hard
466) Rohit was ______ when he took important 474) Blow one's own trumpet
decisions without consulting the family.
1. Condemn others 2. Follow others
1. cutting the red tape
3. Praise oneself 4. Be self-reliant
2. told to get a new lease of life
475) Dead heat
3. in the same boat
1. Close contest that ends in a tie
4. told to fight his own battles himself
2. A strong heat wave
467) Radha is unable to continue working in this
office. Hard work is ______ on her health. 3. A deadly blast of hot air

1. making her meet both ends 4. Strong opposition to one's ideas

2. blowing hot and cold 476) Back to square one

3. keeping an eye 4. taking a toll on 1. Draw a square 2. Come to the original point

468) Get on the nerves 3. Move ahead 4. Neglect something

(a) To be an irritant (b) To lose confidence 477) To throw a fit

(c) To become very sensitive; cry easily 1. Become unconscious 2. Faint and fall down

(d) To become very strong emotionally 3. Express extreme anger

469) To take French leave 4. Caution someone about fitness

1. Acknowledge the host 478) The bee’s knees

2. Leave with written permission 1. Problematic 2. Extraordinary

3. Welcome the host 3. Observant 4. Foolish

4. Leave without any intimation 479) Hold water

470) A hard nut to crack 1. To be busy 2. To be valid

1. Easily disappointed 2. Not restrained 3. To be fickle 4. To be deep

3. Easily encouraged 4. A difficult problem 480) Bring to light

471) On shank's mare 1. Praise in public

1. On foot 2. On an elephant 2. Cheer someone

3. On a bicycle 4. On a lion 3. Reveal clearly

472) A snake in the grass 4. Brighten up

1. A good friend 2. A secret enemy

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481) A bed of roses 1. Suddenly 2. By any means
1. A valley full of flowers 3. Gradually 4. On the whole
2. An easy and happy situation 489) See eye to eye
3. A pleasant perfume 4. A difficult path 1. See clearly 2. Be suspicious
482) A close-fisted person 3. Stare at someone
1. A miserly person 2. A strong person 4. Agree with someone
3. A cruel person 4. A kind person 490) Pull a fast one
483) To flog a dead horse 1. Progress fast 2. Take quick action
1. To accept the challenge 3. Trick someone 4. Believe someone easily
2. To make the best use of resources 491) Like a dying duck in a thunderstorm
3. To complete the work 4. To waste the effort 1. Daring 2. Confident
484) To take the bull by the horns 3. Dejected 4. Comfortable
1. To handle difficulties 2. To murder someone 492) To paddle one's own canoe
3. To surrender to the enemy 1. To act in a childish way 2. Depend on oneself
4. To speak arrogantly 3. To exercise hard 4. To take rest
485) To add fuel to the fire. 493) Look down upon
1. Exploit someone 1. To look for something under ground
2. To make a bad situation worse 2. To consider someone inferior
3. Simplify the problem 3. To be full of guilt 4. To look down from a
height
4. Calm down the situation
494) Keep abreast of
486) Hobson's Choice
1. Keep ahead of
1. To be in an aggressive mood when facing a
challenge 2. Keep oneself updated
2. To exercise the choice to surrender before the 3. Keep up the good work
enemy 4. Keep a watch on
3. To challenge an unworthy opponent 495) Give a piece of one's mind
4. An apparently free choice where there is no 1. To share one's ideas
real alternative
2. To donate something valuable
487) Chicken-hearted
3. To rebuke someone strongly
1. Selfish 2. Generous
4. To advise someone
3. Miserly 4. Cowardly
488) By and by

Page No. 36
496) Come to the point 503) To take a back seat
1. To speak plainly about the real issue 1. To go through a short but unpleasant period of
time
2. To get reconciled to something
2. To lecture or criticise the person who is
3. To unravel a mystery
actually in control of something
4. To meet at a designated place
3. To be less successful in one’s efforts
497) The people were scared because the
4. To become less important or to give up control
burglar was "at large".
over things
1. very dangerous 2. very famous
504. A wild goose chase
3. not caught 4. behind bars
(a) Fruitful search (b) Timely search
498) Cut and dried
(c) Useless search (d) Wrong decision
1. Dead and gone 2. Badly hurt
(505) A moot point
3. Very old 4. Already decided
(a) Agreeable (b) Disputed
499) Make off with
(c) Unclear (d) Unknown
1. To understand 2. To run away
(506) Will-o-the wisp
3. To discover 4. To transfer
(a) Something that is impossible to get or
500) Kill two birds with one stone achieve.
1. To plan two murders simultaneously (b) To keep off an unwanted and undesirable
2. To be an expert shooter person.

3. To try something impossible (c) To spend recklessly.

4. To achieve two results with a single effort (d) Accept or leave the offer.

501) The acid test (507) To go through fire and water

1. A fact, event or situation that proves something (a) To scold someone

2. A critical situation or crisis (b) To experience many dangers in order to

achieve something
3. An unpleasant or offensive test
(c) To act without restraints
4. Throwing acid on someone’s face
(d) Something which hurts
502) Blind alley
(508) To put a spoke in one's wheel
1. A state of deep thought
(a) To be advantageous at the time of difficulty
2. A person who comes to meet occasionally
(b) To maintain under all circumstances
3. A situation in which no further progress can
be made (c) To blame the other party

4. Taking first step after somebody’s approach (d) To put a difficulty in the way of progress

Page No. 37
(509) At loggerheads (516) Mealy-mouthed
(a) To suffer (b) In conflict with someone (a) Ill-tempered (b) Soft-spoken
(c) To face tough competition (c) Enthusiastic (d) Afraid to speak frankly
(d) To be in do or die situation (517) By fits and starts
(510) Adam's ale (a) Occasionally (b) Totally
(a) Gift (b) Food (c) Finally (d) Irregularly
(c) Water (d) Belongings (518) Chicken-hearted
(511) At one's wits end (a) Coward (b) Short tempered
(a) A man of ability (b) At the last moment (c) Composed (d) Bold
(c) To get puzzled (d) Undecided controversy (519) Red letter day
(512) To go to somebody's head (a) Starting day (b) Holiday
(a) To have a huge ego (c) Significant day (d) Ending day
(b) To complain to the highest authority (520) To have a finger in every pie
(c) To make someone dizzy or slightly drunk (a) To Fight with everybody
(d) To make the person think that they are very (b) To be involved in a large and varied number
important that makes them less pleasant person of activities or enterprises
(513) To make amends (c) To make fun of everybody
(a) To make new friends (d) To leave every job unfinished
(b) To feel guilty for something you have not done (521) To make up one's mind
(c) To compensate (a) To be prepared for unfavourable outcomes
(d) To make flimsy excuses (b) To make a decision; decide
(514) Go for a song (c) To overcome intense grief
(a) One's favourite music (d) To psyche oneself into believing that the task
at hand is not impossible
(b) Happy go lucky attitude
(522) Spick and Span
(c) Sold cheaply
(a) High and low (b) Dark and light
(d) Something which is prohibitively expensive
(c) Neat and clean (d) Happy and sad
(515) Make an ass out of
(523) To draw the longbow
(a) Cause someone or oneself to look foolish or
stupid (a) To nullify (b) To exaggerate
(b) Work very hard like a donkey (c) To underrate (d) To demarcate
(c) Be smart but act dumb
(d) Make a mistake

Page No. 38
(524) All agog (c) In anxious suspense (d) Speak quickly
(a) Avoid (b) Contentment (532) Ended in a fiasco
(c) Amazed (d) Unsystematically (a) A complete failure (b) A successful event
(525) Not to mince matters (c) Changed one completely
(a) To be at ease (b) To not confuse others (d) Twisted around
(c) To not interfere in others affairs (533) Sow wild oats
(d) To speak out politely (a) To make someone fool
(526) Live from hand to mouth (b) To make space to red
(a) Filthy rich people (c) To take revenge
(b) To be dependent on others (d) To waste time by doing foolish things
(c) To have enough money to live on and nothing (534) The thin end of the wedge
extra (a) In strict vigilance
(d) Living in miserable conditions. (b) Start of harmful development
(527) To face the music
(c) Be aware of the trick (d) Not a worthy
(a) To bear the consequences possession
(b) To disparage someone (535) To accept the gauntlet
(c) To be hard of hearing (a) To accept challenge
(d) To enjoy a musical concert (b) To accept defeat
(528) To steal a march (c) To accept what is written in fate
(a) To act in a foolish way (d) To be able to grasp the hidden meaning
(b) To break something (536) Pillar to post
(c) To outshine (d) To see a hidden meaning (a) Main support of an object
(529) In a jiffy (b) One place to another
(a) Fail to win appreciation (c) To be reluctant
(b) In an appropriate manner (d) To incite others
(c) Something that is done very quickly (537) Hobson's choice
(d) To fall in love (a) To choose first in row
(530) Herculean task (b) To make a careful choice
(a) Important task (b) Motivating (c) No real choice at all
(c) Optional to do (d) Very difficult task (d) To seek all favourable alternatives to choose
from
(531) On tenterhooks
(a) Flattery (b) in a disorganized manner
Page No. 39
(538) To Have bitten off more than you can chew (544) To hit the nail on the head
(a) To eat voraciously and then fall sick (a) To take out frustration by beating a person
(b) To behave disrespectfully towards elders and (b) To make a wrong decision
then repent the act (c) To find exactly the right answer
(c) To have tried to do something which is too (d) To unwittingly fall into a trap
difficult
(545) On thin ice
(d) To have missed a golden opportunity and
after that willing to put twice the effort to (a) To keep failing after repeated efforts
recover the loss (b) To endure a harsh winter
(539) Out of print (c) To keep one's cool even in a tough situation
(a) Not able to print due to being short on paper (d) In a precarious or risky situation
(b) A book no longer available from the publisher (546) To have something on the brain
(c) Intentionally not mention some items in the (a) To be obsessed with something
article or book
(b) To be ready with an immediate smart witty
(d) All publishers refuse to publish your book reply
(540) Kick the bucket (c) To unable to solve a particularly difficult
(a) Loose temper (b) To delay a little longer philosophical problem

(c) To die (d) To meet with an accident (d) To think wistfully about past life

(541) An axe to grind (547) Not one's cup of tea

(a) To act bravely (b) To act like a fool (a) To stop having breakfast

(c) To have a selfish motive (b) To accept defeat even before attempting to
take up the challenge
(d) To take risk
(c) to be satisfied with less
(542) Bear the palm
(d) Not one's choice or preference
(a) To face the consequences
(548) In bad taste
(b) To meet death
(a) Not suitable or offensive
(c) To be able to predict future
(b) To be a bad cook
(d) To win
(c) To have a poor choice of fashion style
(543) To give the devil his due
(d) To express honest harsh opinion about
(a) To punish the wrong person
someone or something
(b) To give credit to even a notorious person
(c) To let the enemy learn the lesson on his own
(d) To stand in the way of the devil

Page No. 40
(549) Once and for all (b) To punish a person severely for his arrogance
(a) Now and for the last time; finally (c) To quarrel over trifles
(b) To be successful in the first attempt (d) To keep away from extreme poverty
(c) To do a charitable act for the benefit of (555) Make one's flesh creep
everybody (a) To confuse someone (b) To flatter someone
(d) To speak for the majority (c) To abuse someone
(550) To heave a sigh of relief
(d) To frighten someone
(a) To become very tired with routine or boring (556) Damp squib
work
(a) Complete failure (b) Complete knowledge
(b) To suddenly feel very happy because
something unpleasant has not happened or has (c) To motivate (d) To squander money
ended (557) Rise like a phoenix
(c) To Feel extremely sad over someone else's (a) Something memorable
misfortune
(b) Time to answer for one\'s action
(d) To Feel silent anger over real or perceived
(c) To become successful again
injustice
(d) To make people happy
(551) To be on cloud nine
(558) In black and white
(a) To extremely happy
(a) Be colour blind
(b) To feely lucky
(b) Not able to appreciate the finer things in life
(c) To experience the feeling of being intoxicated
(c) Be excessively prejudiced against something
(d) To make one last attempt
or someone
(552) Give somebody a ring
(d) very clear choice that causes no confusion
(a) Propose marriage
(559) Out of date
(b) Inform about the death of a loved one
(a) Not have time; very busy
(c) Call someone on the telephone
(b) Not stick to the schedule
(d) Trap somebody in a difficult relationship
(c) Fail to find a partner (d) Old-fashioned
(553) Learn by heart
(560) It goes without saying
(a) To memorize something
(a) To Silently bear the injustice
(b) Love something terribly
(b) Something which is implied to be obvious
(c) Learn a lesson by making a mistake
(c) There is no point in doing something after you
(d) Learn to control or hide your true feelings are told to do it
(554) To wrangle over an ass's shadow (d) Break long relationship with someone
(a) To waste money over trifles

Page No. 41
561. To let someone off (d) To waste time on silly or trivial things.
(a) To let someone fall (567) To make a fuss about
(b) To leave someone in his present state (a) To be extremely delighted
(c) To release someone from blame (b) To work hard for eventual success
(d) To refuse to answer (c) To be very strict or have very high standards
(562) Barking up the wrong tree (d) An excessive display of attention or activity
(a) Scolding the one who is innocent. (568) To keep the wolf from the door
(b) Expecting a favour from a heartless person. (a) Avoid starvation (b) Crack the deal
(c) Looking in the wrong place. (c) Entry prohibited (d) Have a pleasant
tour
(d) Requesting but in an arrogant manner.
(569) Teething problems
(563) Call it a day
(a) Oral problems
(a) To start a job wishing for success.
(b) Problems at the start of a new project
(b) To take a break or a holiday.
(c) Problems for quite a long time in adjus ting in
(c) Assign different days to different tasks.
the new place
(d) To declare the end of a task.
(d) Problem of having good dentist
(564) Get the message
(570) Rat race
(a) Understand what is implied by a remark or
(a) Make others fight for scraps and get sadistic
action
pleasure out of it
(b) Communicate using a secret language
(b) Be an oppressive boss and treat employees
(c) Find it difficult to understand a different like animals
language
(c) A way of life in which people are caught up in
(d) Fire someone from a job a fiercely competitive struggle for wealth or
(565) Keep at bay power

(a) Keep your problems to yourselves (d) Play games with the lives of other people and
see them run aimlesly
(b) to control something and prevent it from
causing you problems (571) Spin one's wheels

(c) Not share a secret (a) Keep bagging about oneself

(d) Maintain a long distance relationship (b) Try your luck

(566) To go off the air (c) Expel much effort for little or no gain

(a) To remove ventilator of a patient on his death (d) Start a long journey
bed
(b) To not eat food for a long period of time
(c) To stop broadcasting a radio or TV program
Page No. 42
(572) The alpha and the omega (d) A person who is respected even by his
enemies.
(a) Happy and sad
(578) Achilles' heel
(b) The beginning and the end
(a) A fatal weakness in spite of overall strength.
(c) The love and the hatred (d) Truth and dare
(b) A secret weapon to be used as a last resort.
(573) Throw up the sponge
(c) A past deed which one is trying to hide.
(a) To attack (b) To laugh at someone
(d) The person who is blamed if anything go es
(c) To surrender (d) To talk loudly
wrong.
(574) At the drop of a hat
(579) Beat around the bush
(a) Without any hesitation; instantly.
(a) To treat a topic, but omit its main points, often
(b) Show outward respect to someone you hate. intentionally.
(c) Forcibly let go of something which is very (b) Talk bad about a person, often in the absence
personal to you. of that person .
(d) A mistake which is of not much consequence. (c) Spend a fun jovial time.
(575) Beat a dead horse (d) It is wise to ignore hard ships and continue
(a) Show extreme level of cruelty especially to with your task.
animals. (580) Gnash your teeth
(b) Exploit someone to the point of killing (a) Express rage (b) Brush your teeth
him/her.
(c) Laugh hysterically (d) Take a big bite
(c) To uselessly dwell on a subject far beyond its
Q581. Tempt providence
point of resolution.
A) To punish someone
(d) To continue playing a game knowing very well
that you are going to lose. B) To take reckless risks
(576) Ball is in your court C) To have God’s favor
(a) Put the blame on the other person. D) To make publicly known
(b) Request someone to return your belonging. Q582. Within an ace of
(c) It is up to you to make the next decision or A) Very near to B) Very far from
step. C) Very cheap D) Very expensive
(d) To tell someone politely about his/her Q583. Beyond the pale
mistake.
A) Productive
(577) Best of both worlds
B) Penniless
(a) Two best teams compete with each other.
C) Unacceptable
(b) A situation wherein someone has the
privilege of enjoying two different opportunities. D) Defeated

(c) Gods who rule heaven and earth.

Page No. 43
Q584. The royal road A) To admit that one has been wrong
A) An easy way B) A troublesome way B) To correct someone else for their wrong
doings
C) A grand idea D) A luxurious life
style C) To defend oneself on being caught red-handed
Q585. Whiter than white D) To run away from punishment
A) Completely foolish B) Completely blank Q592. Behind the eight ball
C) Customary D) Completely honest A) Visit a pleasant place
Q586. On the bum B) Improve to do better
A) To take for granted C) To be advantageous
B) To live wandering life D) At a disadvantage
C) To refer to Q593. A ghost of a chance
D) To raise objections A) Commonplace
Q587. For days on end B) Become more important or popular
A) Travelling days B) Memorable days C) To be in a hurry
C) For many days D) For forgettable D) A very small possibility
days Q594. To bring to heel
Q588. On the button A) To be successful
A) To come into contact with B) Roughly B) To force someone or something to obey
C) To do unimportant things first D) Precisely C) To wish someone good luck
Q589. The tip of the iceberg D) To confine or trap
A) The best quality of people which makes them Q595. Long in the tooth
memorable for a long time
A) To speak (or write) too much
B) Superficial evidence of a much larger problem
B) To be elderly or aging
C) A repeating situation in which one problem
causes another problem C) To take a long route

D) To allow something to be done that is not D) To live long

usually allowed Q596. The salt of the Earth
Q590. Tide over (a) To expect something in return
A) To leave in difficult time (b) Very good & honest/kind
B) To perform brilliantly (c) To support someone (d) Neat and clean
C) Support through a difficult period Q597. Feel blue
D) To expect more than one actually deserves (a) Feeling ecstatic (b) In trouble/depressed
Q591. Stand corrected (c) An easy achievement (d) comfortable
Page No. 44
Q598. Flies off at a tangent (c) To be idle (d) To object at something
(a) Self praising (b) To boast Q607. Balloon goes up
(c) Start discussing something irrelevant (a) To be attentive
(d) Well informed (b) A situation turning unpleasant/serious
Q599. Going places. (c) A happy occasion (d) Get up early
(a) To go to the home back Q608. Part and Parcel
(b) Talented and successful (a) To take an initiative
(c) To go on a visit (d) To be angry (b) To do a task completely
Q600. Get the sack (c) Important part (d) To surprise someone
(a) Getting promotion (b) Dismissed from Q609. Gate Crasher
(c) To get a surprise (d) To get a leave (a) Invited friend (b) Uninvited guest
Q601. Of no avail (c) A drunk person (d) A murderer
(a) In favour with (b) Useless Q610. As daft as a brush
(c) Useful (d) To be utterly lost (a) Extremely silly (b) Extremely kind
Q602. Bone to pick (c) Extremely sick (d) Extremely old
(a) Appear suddenly (b) To reject 611. Ended in smoke.
(c) Cause of quarrel (d) To accept readily a) To catch fire b) No ending
Q603. To call it a day c) To give no practical result
(a) To conclude proceedings d) To fall
(b) To grieve over 612. Of his own accord.
(c) To surrender (d) To be suspicious a) Unwillingly b) Willingly
Q604. Pull someone up on something c) At his desire d) By forcible action
(a) To agree on something (b) To Criticize 613. A fool’s paradise.
(c) To bring out a change (d) None of the above a) Living in illusions b) Live happily
Q605. Point blank c) To live in the midst of idiots d) With happy
ideas
(a) Rarely (b) Very definite and direct
614. Dashed her hopes
(c) At a last moment
a) Bring failure b) Disappointed
(d) Leave quietly
c) Frustrate d) Bring harmony
Q606. A cut above
615. In abeyance
(a) Rather superior to
a) Secret b) Open to all
(b) Tough situation
c) In no time d) In suspension
Page No. 45
616. Beef up D) On the back of ruin
a) Weaken b) To strengthen 625. A man of letters.
c) To care d) Aimlessly A) Of wide contacts
617. Blow hot and cold B) An excellent letter dictator
a) Permanent b) Temporary C) A great writer of letters
c) To be constantly changing d) To develop D) Proficient in literary art
618. Catch one’s breath 626. In the red
a) Shock or amazement b) Stop breathing A) Making money B) Losing money
c) Happy mood d) Fearful thoughts C) In danger D) Spending money
619. Look one’s goose 627. A white elephant.
a) Experience b) include A) Very huge item
c) to put an end to one’s hopes B) Costly and useless possession
d) cause destruction to C) Very expensive investment
620. Do away with D) Useful material
a) Destroy b) Explode 628. Playing to the gallery.
c) Remove d) Eradicate A) Adopting cheap tactics
621. Give me a hand B) Befooling the common man
A) Keep a watch on B) Handle C) Fighting for votes D) Appeasing the
masses
C) Provide me with D) Help me with
629. Trumped up
622. To drink life to the lees.
A) Translated
A) To have the best of fun and fortune
B) Sang with the music of a trumpet
B) To enjoy a life of drinking and dancing
C) Concocted D) Copied
C) To have a life full of adventures
630. A close shave
D) To have the best of life
A) To share one’s brand B) Very risky
623. Looked blank
C) Narrow escape from danger D) To be happy
A) Was without any emotion
631. Scapegoats
B) Was puzzled and surprised
A) Punished for others’ misdeeds
C) Was uninterested D) Was
unhappy B) Developed poor relations
624. On the brink of disaster. C) Treated humbly and respectfully
A) At the top of ruin B) At the point of ruin D) Scolded with arrogant reactions
C) On the side of ruin
Page No. 46
632. Stole the show. 640. On good terms
A) Stole something from the show A) Kept terms and conditions B) Was friendly
B) Crept into the show C) Followed the rules
C) Won everybody’s praise D) Agreed with them
D) Disappeared from the show 641. To beat about the bush.
633. Put off A) Wander across the words
A) Cancelled B) Postponed B) Speak in a haphazard manner
C) Advanced D) Announced C) Speak in a round-about manner
634. A man in the street D) Make use of irrelevant reference
A) An ordinary person B) An illiterate person 642. Set forth
C) An unknown person D) A stranger A) Stated B) Accepted
635. Passed himself off C) Contradicted D) Printed
A) Described himself B) Deceived everyone 643. Hadn’t a leg to stand on.
C) Disguised himself D) Was regarded A) Had been injured in an accident
636. Gave the game away B) Was lame
A) Lost the game B) Gave out the secret C) Did not have much hope of getting it
C) Gave away the gift D) Would have to wait for some time
D) Withdrew from the plan 644. Show the white feather
637. Gone down the drain. A) Show signs of cowardice
A) Was lost forever B) Act arrogantly
B) Dropped in the drain C) Show intimacy
C) Got washed away D) Act impudently
D) Her money was safe 645. To give it a shot.
638. Fell short A) Click a picture B) Try something
A) Had no effect C) Pose for a picture D) Injure someone
B) Moved the audience 646. Eat one’s words
C) Impressed the audience 1. forgive and forget
D) Was quite short 2. become less acceptable
639. Sorted out 3. retract what one has said
A) Revised B) Supported 4. oppose sternly
C) Resolved D) Changed

Page No. 47
647. Rose-coloured glasses 3. a high-priced and expensive thing
1. a positive outlook on life 4. someone or something new and refreshing
2. a difficult situation 654. Take exception
3. an outdated attitude 1. appreciate 2. object to
4. a belief not based on facts 3. care for 4. deny
648. On the spur of the moment 655. To call the shots
1. deciding after a lot of thinking 1. to be the person in charge
2. acting impulsively without thinking 2. to be blissfully happy
3. waiting nervously for something 3. to be in debt 4. to lack control
4. being extremely careful 656. She felt like a fish out of water at her new
649. One track mind job.

1. thinking of another point of view 1. angry and hurt 2. comfortable and relaxed

2. using a well-known path 3. uncomfortable and restless

3. always thinking of only one thing 4. happy and free

4. waiting anxiously for something 657. Information technology has developed by

leaps and bounds.
650. On the double
1. at a rapid pace 2. very gradually
1. on the verge of collapse
3. through unfair me 4. in far off places
2. at a fast pace 3. out of order
658. Her success as a singer was a nine days’
4. between two undesirable things wonder.
651. Over one’s head 1. a proud achievement 2. an impossible feat
1. something totally unexpected 3. eternal fame
2. being at a disadvantage 4. a short-lived sensation
3. unable to function as before 659. His comments cast a slur upon the integrity
4. beyond one’s capability to understand of his manager.
something 1. redeemed 2. praised
652. A fair weather friend 3. improved 4. damaged
1. an unreliable friend 2. a dependable friend 660. If the audit report shows anomalies, the
3. a friend turned into an enemy finance manager will be brought to book.
4. a jealous friend 1. given a promotion 2. rewarded suitably
653. Breath of fresh air 3. supported fully 4. held accountable
1. a peaceful and relaxing place
2. someone with a pleasant voice
Page No. 48
661. If we lay our heads together, we will surely 3. To blame others 4. To regret uselessly
find a solution. 670. First and foremost
1. rest for a while 1. Most important aspect 2. Most difficult task
2. work in consultation 3. After everything else 4. Far from the truth
3. work in isolation 4. take a break 671. Apple of one’s eye
662. up to the mark 1. Very clean 2. Very easy
1. lacking in maturity 3. Very rosy 4. Very dear
2. up to the required standard 672. Behind one’s back
3. of the desired height 1. In one’s absence 2. In everyone’s knowledge
4. more than expected 3. Confronting somebody
663. The threat of the pandemic is not just a cry 4. Openly supporting someone
in the wilderness.
673. A red letter day
1. mourning for the loss 2. spreading rumours
1. A day full of sorrows
3. an unheeded warning 4. tears of sorrow
2. A day when everything goes perfect
664. The news of a leopard in the city spread like
wild fire. 3. A joyful day 4. A memorable day

1. caused damage 2. caused fear 674. To take French leave

3. spread slowly 4. spread rapidly 1. Leave with written permission

665. Do a good turn 2. Leave without any intimation

1. Render a service 2. Wait for a turn 3. Acknowledge the host

3. Return a gift 4. Make a profit 4. Welcome the host

666. Blow one’s own trumpet 675. On shank's mare

1. Rely on oneself 2. Criticise others 1. On an elephant 2. On foot

3. Praise oneself 4. Respect others 3. On a lion 4. On a bicycle

667. Carry the day 676. A snake in the grass

1. Win a victory 2. Lift a heavy load 1. A well-wisher 2. A secret enemy

3. Bear the burden 4. Lead an army 3. A good friend 4. Difficult to find

668. Eye-wash 677. Back to square one

1. An operation 2. A consideration 1. Neglect something

3. A deception 4. An inspiration 2. Draw a square

669. Cry over spilt milk 3. Move ahead 4. Come to the original point

1. To find a solution 2. To shout slog

Page No. 49
678. At one’s beck and call a. See clearly b. Stare at someone
1. Move behind 2. Leave a place c. Agree with someone d. Be suspicious
3. Move ahead 688. At daggers drawn
4. To be ready to obey someone’s order a. deceiving somebody b. bitterly hostile
679. The bee’s knees c. without hope
1. Problematic 2. Foolish d. friendly with each other
3. Extraordinary 4. Observant 689. Get out of hand
680. To throw a fit 1. give up something
1. Faint and fall down 2. get out of control
2. Become unconscious 3. to complete a task 4. get upset
3. Express extreme anger 690. Costs an arm and a leg
4. Caution someone about fitness 1. rarely available 2. easy to obtain
681. Bring to light 3. nothing to lose 4. very expensive
1. Reveal clearly 2. Cheer someone 691. Pull yourself together
3. Brighten up 4. Praise in public 1. go to sleep 2. try to understand
682. Hold water 3. do a good job 4. calm down
1. To be fickle 2. To be valid 692. Give someone the cold shoulder
3. To be busy 4. To be deep 1. do something pointless
683. A close-fisted person 2. ignore someone
a. A strong person b. A kind person 3. pamper someone
c. A miserly person d. A cruel person 4. give away a secret
684. Chicken-hearted 693. Lead someone by the nose
a. Selfish b. Cowardly 1. to quarrel with someone
c. Generous d. Miserly 2. to dominate someone
685. By and by 3. to do the right thing
a. On the whole b. By any means 4. to force someone to take the blame
c. Suddenly d. Gradually 694. Throw up the sponge
686. Pull a fast one 1) To attack
a. Trick someone b. Believe someone easily 2) To laugh at someone
c. Progress fast d. Take quick action 3) To surrender
687. See eye to eye 4) To talk loudly

Page No. 50
695. To put a spoke in one's wheel 702. Sow wild oats
1) To be advantageous at the time of difficulty 1) To make someone fool
2) To maintain under all circumstances 2) To make space to read
3) To blame the other party 3) To take revenge
4) To put a difficulty in the way of progress 4) To waste time by doing foolish things
696. Spick and Span 703. Live from hand to mouth
1) High and low 2) Dark and light 1) Filthy rich people
3) Neat and clean 4) Happy and sad 2) To be dependent on others
697. All agog 3) To have enough money to live on and nothing
extra
1) Avoid 2) Contentment
4) Living in miserable conditions.
3) Amazed 4) Unsystematically
704. To face the music
698. Not to mince matters
1) To bear the consequences
1) To be at ease 2) To not confuse others
2) To disparage someone
3) To not interfere in others affairs
3) To be hard of hearing
4) To speak out politely
4) To enjoy a musical concert
699. Will-o-the wisp
705. Pillar to post
1) Something that is impossible to get or achieve.
1) Main support of an object
2) To keep off an unwanted and undesirable
person. 2) One place to another
3) To spend recklessly. 3) To be reluctant
4) Accept or leave the offer. 4) To incite others
700. To go through fire and water 706. To steal a march
1) To scold someone 1) To act in a foolish way
2) To experience many dangers in order to 2) To break something
achieve something 3) To outshine
3) To act without restraints 4) To see a hidden meaning
4) Something which hurts 707. In a jiffy
701. Ended in a fiasco 1) Fail to win appreciation
1) A complete failure 2) A successful event 2) In an appropriate manner
3) Changed one completely 3) Something that is done very quickly
4) Twisted around 4) To fall in love

Page No. 51
708. The thin end of the wedge 714. To let someone off
1) In strict vigilance 1) To let someone fall
2) Start of harmful development 2) To leave someone in his present state
3) Be aware of the trick 3) To release someone from blame
4) Not a worthy possession 4) To refuse to answer
709. To accept the gauntlet 715. Ball is in your court
1) To accept challenge 1) Put the blame on the other person.
2) To accept defeat 2) Request someone to return your belonging.
3) To accept what is written in fate 3) It is up to you to make the next decision or
step.
4) To be able to grasp the hidden meaning
4) To tell someone politely about his/her
710. To wrangle over an ass's shadow
mistake.
1) To waste money over trifles
716. Best of both worlds
2) To punish a person severely for his arrogance
1) Two best teams compete with each other.
3) To quarrel over trifles
2) A situation wherein someone has the privilege
4) To keep away from extreme poverty of enjoying two different opportunities.
711.Make one's flesh creep 3) Gods who rule heaven and earth.
1) To confuse someone 2) To flatter someone 4) A person who is respected even by his
3) To abuse someone enemies.

4) To frighten someone 717. Give somebody a ring

712. To have something on the brain 1) Propose marriage

1) To be obsessed with something 2) Inform about the death of a loved one

2) To be ready with an immediate smart witty 3) Call someone on the telephone

reply 4) Trap somebody in a difficult relationship
3) To unable to solve a particularly difficult 718. Leave no stone unturned
philosophical problem
1) Search for the hidden treasure
4) To think wistfully about past life
2) Do a futile task
713. It goes without saying
3) Be known for achieving a tremendous feat
1) To Silently bear the injustice
4) Try every possible course of action in order to
2) Something which is implied to be obvious achieve something
3) There is no point in doing something after you
are told to do it
4) Break long relationship with someone

Page No. 52
719. Get the message 725. Blow his top
1) Understand what is implied by a remark or 1. Dismiss from job
action 2. Be very embarrassed
2) Communicate using a secret language 3. Be very angry
3) Find it difficult to understand a different 4. Attack fiercely
language
726. In a pickle
4) Fire someone from a job
1 in great pain 2 in jubiliation
720. Keep at bay
3 in trouble 4 in deep sorrow
1) Keep your problems to yourselves
727. Cross the bridge
2) to control something and prevent it from
causing you problems 1 deal with something only when necessary

3) Not share a secret 2 not even think about the problem

4) Maintain a long distance relationship 3 not deal with the problem at all

721. To go off the air 4 let someone else deal with the problem

1) To remove ventilator of a patient on his death 728. By the skin of one’s teeth
bed (a) To hurt someone
2) To not eat food for a long period of time (b) Teeth show health of an animal or a person
3) To stop broadcasting a radio or TV program (c) Dental hygiene is critical for good health
4) To waste time on silly or trivial things. (d) A very narrow margin
722. To make a fuss about 729. Pull the plug
1) To be extremely delighted (a) Make a firm refusal
2) To work hard for eventual success (b) Save a situation by acting in the nick of time
3) To be very strict or have very high standards (c) To waste away somebody’s effort
4) An excessive display of attention or activity (d) Prevent something from continuing
723. To go to somebody's head 730. Wag the dog
1) To have a huge ego (a) To divert attention from something of greater
2) To complain to the highest authority importance to something of lesser importance

3) To make someone dizzy or slightly drunk (b) To be nice to someone if you want that
person’s loyalty
4) To arrive at the central point of the topic
(c) To praise someone to get that persons love
724. To make amends
(d) A small favour to a person who loves you
1) To make new friends matters a lot to that person
2) To feel guilty for something you have not done
3) To compensate 4) To make flimsy excuses
Page No. 53
731. Water under the bridge 737. To knock off
(a) To create solutions to overcome any problem (a) To maintain outward show
(b) Past events are no longer important (b) Stop working
(c) Young days can never be brought back again (c) A false praise (d) To be sluggish
(d) Time keeps flowing endlessly 738. To keep the powder dry
732. Saved by the bell (a) To be ready for any work
(a) When time is in your favour (b) To make a great noise
(b) Saved at the last moment (c) To create disturbance
(c) The bell rings at the most opportune time (d) To arrive at a conclusion soon
(d) Prayers are answered when the church bell 739. In the wake of
rings (a) To be in fashion (b) As a result of
733. Down to the wire (c) As a summary (d) Prevalent
(a) Removing the bondage that is keeping on 740. To hold a candle to
down
(a) To take the remarks seriously
(b) The last second before the bomb explodes
(b) To be comparable to the other
(c) To denote a situation whose outcome is not
decided until the very last minute (c) To be burdened with a task

(d) Finishing all of one’s resources to the last (d) To interfere unnecessarily
penny 741. To be hoisted with one’s petard
734. Eat one’s words (a) To talk continuously of the same matter
1. forgive and forget (b) Secret and underhand
2. become less acceptable (c) To be killed with one’s sword
3. retract what one has said (d) To raise a great cry
4. oppose sternly 742. To give a slip
735. To the letter (a) To prepare oneself for a work
(a) Completely (b) To escape
(b) To verify (c) To appeal (d) To judge something
(c) Watch carefully 743. To fizzle out
(d) To be lucky (a) Failed out gradually
736. Neck and neck (b) To pay the bill
(a) To have jealousy (b) Side by side (c) To insult (d) To increase excitement
(c) To compensate (d) Up and down

Page No. 54
744. Dress down C. A trainer D. Clumsy
(a) To neglect (b) Put in better condition 753. Rises with the lark
(c) To scold (d) To worry excessively A. At midnight B. Very late
745. To bring to book C. Very early D. After sunrise
(a) To punish the guilty 754. As daft as a brush
(b) To gift someone a book A. A liar B. Very funny
(c) Fascinate or attract C. Really silly D. Unreliable
(d) To think deeply 755. Go dutch
746. At the outset A. Drive together B. Pay for each other’s meal
(a) Right in the beginning C. Go together D. Divide the costs
(b) Not under any control 756. Keep a level head
(c) In perfect order A. Was impulsive B. Was sensible
(d) In the power of C. Was crazy D. Was self-centred
747. At home in 757. Go for the jugular
(a) Without a break (b) To be comfortable A. Forfeit the match
(c) To be on bad terms (d) To go home back B. Give easy opportunities to the opposite team
748. A beehive C. Give reserve players a chance
A. A busy place B. A secure place D. Attack all out
C. A sweet place D. A costly place 758. To set the Thames on fire
749. To win laurels A. Do a heroic deed
A. To be victorious in a game B. To memorise B. Do something to suit one’s own purpose
C. To be disappointed C. To burn someone alive
D. To earn great prestige D. Destroy with fire
750. Play ducks and drakes 759. Finish with something
A. Lent B. Spent lavishly A. Be thorough B. Be satisfied
C. Did not spend D. Borrowed C. Be exhausted D. Be through
751. Made a beeline 760. A vexed question
A. Went online B. Rushed A. Controversial
C. Were doubtful D. Refused B. Highlighted
752. All-thumbs. C. Important D. Confused
A. Lazy B. An expert

Page No. 55
761. A golden mean 766. Don't know the first thing about it
A. Comfortable and easy work A) To have no knowledge about something.
B. Middle course between two extremes B) The time that you can no longer change your
mind, or when you have to do what you are doing
C. A sudden sad event
now.
D. A subject of contention
C) To use all your strength and ability to achieve
762. TO MIND ONE’S P’s and Q’s something, or to be in very vicious combat.
(a) To have an illegible handwriting D) To say you will deal with a problem when you
(b) To overdress need to and not before.

(c) To be careful and polite 767. Drew on his fancy

(d) To remember poetry by heart A. Used his understanding

763. Look out for number one B. Used his imagination

A) To have difficulty doing something, or to C. Used his aptitude D. Used his skill
experience a difficult period. 768. Rest on their laurels.
B) To help someone with something. A. Be unhappy B. Be impatient
C) To do something so that you will get all the C. Be motivated D. Be complacent
benefit.
769. Made no bones about
D) To be difficult to find, or to be very isolated
A. Did not have any hesitation in
and remote.
B. Demanded compensation for
764. Lick your wounds
C. Did not have any faith in
A) To swear a lot.
D. Had problems in
B) To go away and recover from a bad
experience or defeat. 770. Sum and substance
C) A way to ask someone what they are thinking (A) summary (b) explanation
about. (C) result (d) effect
D) To start to do something before all the 771. A drug in the market
preparation has been finished.
(A) rarely available (b) Saleable products
765. Stand on ceremony
(C) commodities not in demand
A) To expect that everything is done in the proper
and very formal way. (d) available at cheap rates

B) To finish something or to give it away so that it 772. Mealy-mouthed

is no longer your responsibility. (A) ill—tempered (B) circumlocutory
C) To say that having different experiences (c) Soft voice (D) ambitious
makes life fun and interesting.
D) To do something slowly.
Page No. 56
773. Give a wide berth (b) To submit the false report
(A) keep away from (B) publicly condemn (c) To be dishonest (d) To conceal the facts
(C) give publicly to (D) not sympathise 782. Queer somebody's pitch
with (a) Upset one's plan (b) Reprimand him
774. By fits and starts (c) Check him (d) Work him up
(A) consistently (B) irregularly 783. To make the grade
(C) in high spirits (D) enthusiastically
(a) To fail in a task
775. Clinched the issue (b) To get good marks in an examination
(A) dosed (B) decided (c) To come out successful
(C) finished (D) started (d) To make good one's previous loss
776. Threw cold water over 784. To be up and doing
(A) encouraged (B) discouraged (a) To recover from illness
(C) cleared (D) rejected (b) To be actively engaged
777. A lady's man
(c) To progress satisfactorily
(a) A woman-tailor (d) To be expressive and explicit
(b) A lover of Woman Company 785. To take somebody for a ride.
(c) A man working as per a lady's directions (a) To provide entertainment
(d) A timid husband (b) To keep the company
778. To throw dust in one's eyes (c)To deceive or cheat someone
(a) To defame (b) To make blind (d) To exploit a person cool one's heels
(c) To harm someone (d) To deceive
786. By the rule of thumb
779. To be rolling in money (A) the use of force
(a) Wasting a lot of money (b) Very rich (b) By the use of trickery
(c) Borrowing money liberally (c) By cheating and deception
(d) Spending more than his income (d) By practical experience which is rather rough
780. To get into hot waters 787. To foam at one's mouth
(a) To be impatient A) to brush properly
(b) To suffer a huge financial loss
B) to get very angry
(c) To get into trouble C) to salivate on seeing food
(d) To be in a confused state of mind D) To cheat
781. To give a false colouring
(a) To misrepresent
Page No. 57
788. To burn a hole in the pocket (c) To live in a modest manner
A) to steal from someone's pocket (d) To have to apologise
B) to destroy other's belongings 795. ODDS AND ENDS
C) to be very miserly (a) Quarrelsome persons
D) money that is spent quickly (b) Various intentions
789. Elbow room (c) Mixture of different things
A) opportunity to perform well (d) Nonsense
B) special room for the guest 796. TO PICK UP THE GAUNTLET
C) to give enough space to move or work in (a) To accept felicitations
D) to add a new room to the house (b) To accept a challenge
790. To play fast and loose (c) to accept bribe (d) To accept a senior post
A) to be quick 797. TO COOL ONE’S HEELS
B) to be playful (a) To give a cold treatment to somebody
C) To behave in a careless ,irresponsible or (b) To be kept waiting for sometime
deceitful way (c) To go for a holiday
D) to be efficient (d) To settle a controversial issue
791. While away 798. TO CUT THE GORDIAN KNOT
(a) Spend time in a relaxed way (a) To perform an opening ceremony
(b) To utilize time efficiently (b) To solve a difficult problem
(c) To be on time (d) To be late (c) To get a sharp injury
792. FABIAN POLICY
(d) To go for mountaineering
(a) Dictatorial policy 799. AN OLIVE BRANCH
(b) Democratic policy (a) An offer of peace
(c) Market policy (b) An idea
(d) Policy of using gradual and slow reforms (c) A lady
793. TO KICK THE BUCKET (d) A wicked person
(a) To start an account 800. THE PRIMROSE PATH
(b) To start a sea journey
(a) A modern marketplace
(c) To die (d) To start agricultural activity (b) The pursuit of pleasure
794. TO EAT HUMBLE PIE (c) Right of self-determination
(a) To eat slowly (d) Process using high technology
(b) To have an excellent dish
Page No. 58
801. LEAD SOMEBODY TO THE ALTAR 809. Led by the nose
(a) To make somebody to learn games A) to control someone completely
(b) To marry somebody B) Follow what others suggest
(c) To arrest somebody (d) To pass judgment C) Be afraid to the consequences
802. TO GO FOR THE JUGULAR D) Be led by physical desires
(a) To play a music instrument 810. To catch somebody on the hop
(b) To make a destructive attack A) To defeat B) To catch somebody off guard
(c) To go to watch a circus C) To punish heavily
(d) To go for hunting D) To demand a very high price
803. IN PAWN 811. Make mark
(a) To feel better (b) Confused A) Attained notoriety
(c) Very busy (d) Pledged B) Ruined one's wealth
804. TOUCH-AND-GO C) Acquired wealth
(a) A weak person (b) Uncertain as to the result D) Distinguish himself
(c) To catch a thief (d) A tough competitor 812. Jump down your throat
805. Something up one's sleeve A) Make a joke
A) A grand idea B) Have an alternate plan B) Scold/ speak angrily to someone
C) A profitable plan D) Something important C) Forced to eat
806. The Alpha and Omega D) Run away
A) Beginning and end 813. A close shave
B) A Shakespearean play A) A clean shave
C) A Greek song B) A narrow escape
D) A Swiss watch C) To gamble
807. To take off D) To start something new
A) To remove B) Urge 814. Struck a chill to the heart
C) Enjoy D) Have a nap A) To arouse anger
808. Leave no stone unturned B) To cause relief
A) To take rest C) To make somebody afraid
B) To confess without reserve D) Awakened bitterness
C) To try every possible way
D) To hold the difficulties and dangers in check

Page No. 59
815. To cast pearls before a swine D. To spend time on relevant matters
A. To take responsibility of a loss embedded 822. A snake in the grass
business A. A secret opportunity
B. To offer a thing to someone which he cannot B. An awakening indication
appreciate
C. Hidden enemy D. A hint
C. To reprimand someone
823. To take a leap in the dark
D. To take charge of a useless thing
A. To bribe B. To take risk
816. To bring one”s egg to bad market
C. To threaten someone
A. To humiliate someone in public
D. To do a hazardous thing without any idea of
B. To fail in an attempt because you took help of the result
a wrong person
824. The salt of the Earth
C. To disclose one”s secret
(a) To expect something in return
D. To approach someone in a disrespectful
manner (b) Very good & honest/kind

817. No love lost (c) To support someone (d) Neat and clean

A. cold war B. intense friendship 825. Feel blue

C. Indifference D. intense dislike (a) Feeling ecstatic

818. Clear as mud (b) In trouble/depressed

A. debatable B. not difficult (c) An easy achievement (d) Feeling annoyed

C. Confusing / not easy to understand 826. Flies off at a tangent

D. Deliberate (a) Self praising (b) To boast

819. Streak of bad luck (c) Start discussing something irrelevant

A. Something bad for business (d) Well informed

B. Continuous unfortunate situations 827. Going places.

C. Evil attempt (a) To go to the home back

D. Unworthy of something (b) Talented and successful

820. Make mountains out of molehills (c) To go on a visit (d) To be angry

A. Over excited B. Underestimate 828. Get the sack

C. Get emotional D. Exaggerate something (a) Getting promotion (b) Dismissed from

821. To split hours (c) To get a surprise (d) To get a leave

A. To devote equal amount of time 829. Of no avail

B. To focus on trivial things (a) In favour with (b) Useless

C. To fix time for something (c) Useful (d) To be utterly lost

Page No. 60
830. Bone to pick 838. As daft as a brush
(a) Appear suddenly (b) To reject (a) Extremely silly (b) Extremely kind
(c) Cause of quarrel (d) To accept readily (c) Extremely sick (d) Extremely old
831. To call it a day 839. To cut the Gordian Knot
(a) To conclude proceedings a) To perform a difficult task
(b) To grieve over b) To cut a piece of cloth
(c) To surrender (d) To be suspicious c) To perform an easy task
832. Pull someone up on something d) To do a job perfunctorily
(a) To agree on something (b) To Criticize 840. Bee hive
(c) To bring out a change (d) To get prepared a) A busy place b) A secure place
833. Point blank c) A sweet place d) A costly place
(a) Rarely (b) Very definite and direct 841. Draw the line
(c) At a last moment a) Put the screw on b) Fix a limit
(d) Leave quietly c) Aim at the sky d) Turn the tables
834. A cut above 842. In the soup
(a) Rather superior to a) Preparing soup b) Drinking soup
(b) Tough situation c) Distributing soup d) To be in trouble
(c) To be idle (d) To object at something 843. To win laurels
835. Balloon goes up a) To be victorious in a game
(a) To be attentive b) To memorise
(b) A situation turning unpleasant/serious c) To be disappointed
(c) A happy occasion (d) Get up early d) To earn great prestige
836. Part and Parcel 844. All our might and main
(a) To take an initiative a) Full force b) Complete trust
(b) To do a task completely c) Exceptional skill d) Full unity
(c) Important part 845. Nailed their colours to their mast
(d) To surprise someone a) Put up a colourful mast
837. Gate Crasher b) Refused to cease or surrender
(a) Invited friend (b) Uninvited guest c) Took over the ship
(c) A drunk person (d) A murderer d) Decided to abandon the ship

Page No. 61
846. Batten down the hatches (a) Greater share
a) Stay in – door (b) All of a sudden
b) Prepare for a difficult situation (c) Completion of work
c) Go somewhere safe d) Face the obstacles (d) Everyone without distinction
847. Files off at a tangent 854. To worship the rising sun :
a) Gets carried away (a) To honour a man who is coming into
office/power
b) Starts discussing something irrelevant
(b) To honour to promising people
c) Loses her temper easily
(c) To indulge in flattery
d) Does not really understand anything
(d) To welcome the coming events
848. Go at equal speed
855. To have brush with
a) Get away from b) Put up with
(a) To start painting
c) Keep up with d) Race against
(b) To have good and pleasing terms
849. To take with a grain of salt :
(c) To be impressed
(a) To take with some reservation
(d) To have a slight encounter/conflict with
(b) To take with total disbelief
856. To pull one’s socks up
(c) To take whole heartedly
(a) To face
(d) To take seriously
(b) To try hard
850. To talk through one’s hat :
(c) To get ready
(a) To speak fluently (b) To talk nonsense
(d) To depart
(c) To talk wisdom (d) To speak at
random 857. Dog in the manger :
851. To give/get the bird : (a) An undersized bull almost the shape of a dog
(a) To show derision/ to be dismissed (b) A dog that has no kennel of its own
(b) To have good luck (c) A person who puts himself in difficulties on
account of other people
(c) To send away
(d) A person who prevents others from enjoying
(d) To get the impossible
something useless to himself
852. To flog a dead horse :
858. To set the people by ears
(a) To act in a foolish way
(a) To box the people
(b) To waste one’s efforts
(b) To insult and disgrace the people
(c) To revive interest in an old subject
(c) To punish heavily
(d) To revive old memories
(d) To excite people to a quarrel
853. All and sundry :
Page No. 62
859. To give chapter and verse for a thing 865. To carry the coal to new castle
(a) To produce the proof or tell all the details of (a) To work hard (b) To finish a jab
a thing (c) To do unnecessary things
(b) To eulogize the qualities of a thing (d) To do menial jobs
(c) To make publicity of a thing 866. A baker’s dozen :
(d) To attach artificial value to a thing (a) Twelve (b) Charity
860. To plough the sands :
(c) Thirteen (d) Allowance
(a) To work hard to achieve one’s aim 867. A bull in a china shop :
(b) To afford hope or ground for expecting a (a) A person who is very ugly but loves the
good result beautiful things of life
(c) To busy oneself in a way which cannot lead (b) A person who takes a sadistic delight in
to any profitable result harming
(d) To advance one’s position in life innocient people
861. To take umbrage : (c) A person who becomes too excited where no
(a) To feel depressed (b) To be offended excitement is warranted
(c) To be satisfied (d) To be pleased (d) A person who is rough and clumsy where
skill and care are required
862. To fight to the bitter end :
868. Hard-pressed :
(a) To fight with poison-tipped arrows
(a) Bewildered (b) Insulted
(b) To fight to the last paint of enemy position
(c) Hard discipline (d) In difficulties
(c) To die fighting
869. To be at one’s finger’s end :
(d) To carry on a contest regardless of
consequences (a) To be hopeless
863. To give a false colouring : (b) To be highly perplexed
(a) To misrepresent (c) To be completely conversant with
(b) To submit the false report (d) To count things
(c) To be dishonest (d) To conceal the facts 870. To pull strings :
864. To take the wind out of another’s sails (a) To exert hidden/personal influence to get
advantage
(a) To manouevre to mislead another on the high
seas (b) To tease someone
(b) To cause harm to another (c) To speed up
(c) To defeat the motives of another (d) To start something
(d) To anticipate another and to gain advantage
over him

Page No. 63
871. To be old as the hills : (b) To do a work with increased pace
(a) To be very ancient (c) To tip the office-boy
(b) To be wise and learned (d) To revive old enmity
(c) To be old but foolish 879. To live fast :
(d) Not being worth the age (a) To lead a life of dissipation
872. To mind one’s P’s and Q’s : (b) To accomplish a purpose
(a) To be cautious (c) to do a task hurriedly
(b) To be accurate and precise (d) To use up one’s income as fast as it comes in
(c) To be careful of one’s accounts 880. To take a leaf out of somebody’s book :
(d) To be careful of one’s personality (a) To take him as a model
873. As duck takes to water (b) To steal something valuable
(A) like taking the duck to water (c) To follow the dictates of someone
(B) like bursting out suddenly (d) To copy /imitate someone
(C) like dropping the duck in the water 881. To set the thames on fire :
(D) like easily and naturally speaking (a) To do something remarkable
874. Made away with (b) To try to do the impossible
(a) earned (b) ran away with (c) To burn something to ashes
(c) squandered (d) saved (d) To fling ironical remarks
875. Feel his pulse 882. To have one’s heart in one’s boots :
(a) find his views (b) enlighten him (a) To be deeply depressed
(c) argue with him (d) guide him (b) To be frightened
876. Like a bull in a china shop (c) To get angry (d) To keep a secret
(a) a felicitous person (b) a clumsy person 883. To strike one’s colours :
(c) a tactful person (d) a no-nonsense person (a) To fight vigorously
877. Swan-song : (b) To work hard
(a) Music as sweet as a song of birds (c) To surrender (d) To make a rude gesture
(b) A melodious song in praise of someone 884. To ride hell for Leather :
(c) Praise of a woman by her lover (a) To ride with furious speed
(d) Last work of a poet or musician before death (b) To adopt false means to succeed
878. To oil the knocker : (c) To work hard for a small accomplishment
(a) To instigate a person to do a job (d) To earn money by all means

Page No. 64
885. To speak daggers : 893. To carve out a niche
(a) To abuse someone (a) became a sculptor
(b) To indulge in trivial talks (b) did the best he could do
(c) To speak to a person harshly (c) destroyed his career
(d) To encounter (d) developed a specific position for oneself
886. Be in the mire : 894. Cock and Bull Story
(a) Be under debt (b) Be in love A. A adventurous story with animals used as
metaphors
(c) Be in difficulties (d) Be uneasy
B. an improbable or unbelievable story given as
887. To give a rap on the knuckles :
an explanation or excuse
(a) To eulogise (b) To help
C. A story of morality for teaching values to
(c) To beat (d) To rebuke children
888. To cry wolf. D. A story of amity among animals
(a) To listen eagerly (b) To give false alarm 895. Hand in glove
(c) To turn pale (d) To keep off starvation a. Not volunteering to work
889. To drive home. b. Helping someone
(a) To find one’s root c. Work in close association with someone
(b) To return to place of rest d. Work secretly
(c) Back to original position 896. Tall order
(d) To emphasise a. Big ambitions b. Crowded place
890. Halcyon days c. Expensive place d. Difficult work
(a) hard days (b) of mental pressure 897. To take to task
(c) happy days (d) days of preparation A. Forgave him
891. Fell on stony ground. B. Slapped him
(a) was counter productive C. Gave him extra work
(b) had a strong impact D. Reprimanded him
(c) made on stubborn 898. Cut a sorry figure
(d) had little success/ to be ignored A. Did not stand straight
892. Has all his ducks in a row B. Apologised for his remarks
(a) has everything ready (b) is well organised C. Created a wrong impression
(c) always scores a zero D. Made a poor impression
(d) never gets confused

Page No. 65
899. Bad blood 907. Put up the shutters
A. war a. To close business for the day or permanently
B. ill feeling b. Experienced a downside
C. threatening attitude c. Sold off assets d. Changed ownership
D. in an infected state of being 908. Call in question
900. Over egg the pudding a. Summon as a witness b. Doubtful
A. To try so hard to improve something that you c. Prove a theory d. Challenge
spoil it 909. Weal and woe
B. fill the pudding excessively with egg. a. Friends and enemies b. Be in danger
C. add details in order to make something more c. Adversity
exciting.
d. Good times and bad times
D. add important details to the content of a story.
910. Cheek by jowl
901. Every dark cloud has a silver lining
a. Very close together b. Arguing
A. Every unpleasant situation has to wait
c. Teasing one another d. Avoiding one
B. Every unpleasant situation has a positive side another
C. Every dark cloud is upsetting 911. Carry the ball
D. Cloud with dark and silver lining is good a. Decorate the ball b. Be in charge
902. Turn turtle c. Take the decision d. Be the hostess
A. Slow like a turtle B. Turn like a turtle 912. Butt in
C. Overturn D. A game turtles play a. Record b. Impose
903. Donkey’s years c. Improvise d. Interrupt
a. A decade b. A long time 913. Hard of hearing
c. A century d. Since school days a. To be disturbed
904. Button one’s lip b. To be confused
a. Tell us more b. Stop talking c. To be deaf
c. Invite us too d. Enjoy herself d. To be dumb
905. Evening of life 914. Old head on young shoulders
a. Old age b. A party a. To be intelligent when old
c. Holiday d. Childhood b. To be old and yet look young
906. Strain every nerve c. To be wise beyond his years
a. Try all tricks b. Work very hard d. To be smarter with age
c. Beg before others d. Spend a large amount

Page No. 66
915. A house of cards c. A poor account of something
a. An insecure scheme b. A gambling house d. A description of a beggar
c. A plan with high stakes 923. Play truant
d. A place where cards are printed a. Play a tyrant b. Stay away from duty
916. A cuckoo in the nest c. Be responsible d. Be alert
a. One who likes to stay at home 924. Assume airs
b. A view from a high place a. Take tight b. Remain calm
c. An unwelcome intruder c. Act innocent d. Pretend superiority
d. One who is chosen as the leader of the group 925. Brown study
917. Drive home a. Sleep b. Dream
a. Find one’s roots b. Emphasise c. Fear d. Reverie
c. Refer d. Draw 926. Bone to pick
918. Scot free a. Be angry b. Selfish motive
a. Unlimited b. Unpunished c. Selfless motive d. Desire
c. To freedom d. Unrepentant 927. Breathing down the neck.
919. Selling like hot cakes a. Shouting loudly at him
a. To have a good season b. Giving him strenuous work
b. To become as planned c. Abusing and ill-treating him
c. To have a very slow sale d. Watching all his actions closely
d. To have a very good sale 928. Keep body and soul together
920. All moonshine a. Maintain his health
a. Glowing b. Far from reality b. Continue with his work
c. Celestial d. About the moon c. To have just enough to sustain
921. Hope against hope d. Be physical and spiritual
a. Think wishfully from time to time 929. Do a roaring trade
b. Hoped with good reason a. In the animal business b. Highly successful
c. Nurture an impossible hope c. In the habit of shouting at others
d. Pretend to hope d. Extremely reluctant
922. Beggar description 930. Blue blooded
a. Cannot be described a. Inferior b. Of noble birth
b. Something described by a beggar c. Of unknown origin d. Unhealthy

Page No. 67
931. A storm in a teacup d. A man who is generous
a. Steam while having tea 939. To clip one’s wings
b. Something which encourages A. to stop one from flying B. to trim the leaves
c. Big fuss over a small matter C. to deprive one of power D. to hurt a bird
d. Special positions 940. To nip in the bud
932. Mare’s nest A. to stop something at the start
a. Phenomenal discovery b. Worthless thing B. to trim the flowers
c. Joyful event d. Huge mistake C. to pluck the flowers D. to steal from
933. Throw in the towel 941. Get the sack
a. Fight with vigour b. Acknowledge defeat A. Look for a sack B. Find a sack
c. Get success d. Concentrate more C. Get a call back D. Be dismissed
934. Too many chiefs and not enough indians. 942. Wet behind the ears
a. A proud gathering A. Skillful
b. An inefficient situation B. Young and rich with experience
c. An anti-national meeting C. Young and without much experience
d. A top-level meeting D. Hearing impaired
935. The seamy side 943. Pick to pieces
a. On the right side b. Unpleasant aspect A. Study something superficially
c. Visible aspects B. Complete a work entirely
d. On the left side of something C. Analyse critically D. Select only what you need.
936. Go to rack and ruin 944. Put two and two together
a. A state of utter chaos b. A state of despair A. Bad at mathematics
c. A condition of exhilaration B. Poor financial condition
d. Get into a bad condition C. Reason logically
937. Lose face D. Forget something
a. Become embarrassed b. Feel angry 945. To be in a fix
c. Get injured d. Feel surprised A. In pain
938. A gentleman at large B. In distress
a. A man in the crowd C. Depressed
b. A man without a job D. In a difficult situation
c. A man who runs around

Page No. 68
946. To keep in abeyance B. Become extremely tired after working very
hard
A. In a state of permanence
C. Do something that makes it impossible to
B. In a state of emergency
return to the previous situation
C. In a state of suspension
D. Want to spend money as soon as you get it
D. In a state of revision
954. Beside the mark
947. Curry favour
A. Perfect B. Not to the point
A. Seek impartial judgement
C. Relevant D. Charming
B. Seek favourable attention
955. ill at ease
C. Prepare a dish D. Attract attention
A. Unwell B. Irritated
948. Straw in the wind
C. Uneasy D. Confused
A. A light-weight object B. A lucky charm
956. Throw caution to the winds
C. A game that kids play
A. To be fearful
D. An indication of what might happen
B. To warn others not to travel
949. In the blues
C. To behave recklessly
A. Cheerless and depressed
D. To behave with care and caution
B. Violent and angry
957. Bark is worse than his bite
C. Wearing blue badges D. Singing sad songs
A. Threat is worse than the action taken.
950. Cap in hand
B. Temper cannot be controlled
A. Defiant B. Screaming
C. Ferocious scolding hurt more than his action.
C. Well quickly D. In a respectful manner
D. Anger is always justified.
951. Catch a tartar
958. A chip off the old block
A. To catch a dangerous person
A. Reminds them of one’s father
B. To deal with a person who is more than one’s
B. To remind of one’s son
match
C. Reminds them of one’s son
C. To trap a wanted criminal with great difficulty
D. Reminds of previous memories
D. To live carefully and cautiously
959. Be down with
952. Dressing-down
A. Suffering from B. In grief with
A. Apply bandage B. Wear an expensive gown
C. In pain with D. Aching with
C. Give a scolding D. Pretend
960. Gall and wormwood
953. Burn your boats
A. A problem B. Hateful
A. Have a burning desire to win
C. Useless D. Hard to digest

Page No. 69
961. Every inch a gentleman A. To fit snugly
A. Somewhat B. Partly B. Something tight and sticky
C. Entirely D. Calculatively C. Soft and easy to wear D. Difficult to hold
962. Made light of 970. To angle
A. Did not hear B. Treated it lightly A. To measure the river breadth
C. Blew away D. Carried with him B. To fish with a net
963. With one voice C. To fish D. To sit and watch the river
A. By one man B. By one community 971. Going against the grain
C. Unanimously D. In disharmony A. Doing things differently from what you usually
do
964. Pale into insignificance
B. Doing things against the wishes of your close
A. Seemed less important
relations
B. Was less exciting
C. Doing things which you never heard of
C. Was less hectic
D. Doing things which no one else has ever done
D. Was dull and pale till now
965. For keeps 972. Let the chips fall where they may
A. Escape B. Away A. Let your sacrifices in life be known to
C. Forever D. Hid everyone

966. Mend your ways B. Let the difficult situations in life come to an
end regardless of the results
A. Happy with one’s behaviour
C. Let the joys of life take precedence over your
B. Sad with one’s behaviour
sorrows
C. Destroy one’s behaviour
D. Let something happen without bothering about
D. Improve one’s behaviour the consequences
967. Cat nap 973. Whole bag of tricks
A. Take a long sleep B. Sleep like a cat A. Make use of the best resources from the ones
C. Make a snoring sound while sleeping that are available

D. To sleep briefly B. Make use of all the possibilities or techniques

to achieve something
968. Pull a long face
C. Make use of all opportunities that cross your
A. To make fun B. To look sad
path
C. To irritate someone
D. Make use of all tricks to win the hearts of
D. To pull someone’s face people
969. Fit like a glove

Page No. 70
974. Square peg in a round hole D. To involve someone in a crime
A. Understanding B. Misfit 982. God’s acre
C. Competent D. Most fit A. Church B. Aisle
975. Between the horns of a dilemma. C. A churchyard D. Altar
A. A difficult situation/choice 983. Shake off
B. A challenging situation A. Forget B. Remember
C. An unknown problem C. Imagine D. To get rid off something
bad
D. A combative situation
984. Hold water.
976. Whole nine yards
A. Seem rejectable B. Seem logical
A. Long clothing B. Till last minute
C. Seem approvable D. Seem acceptable
C. Counting length D. Everything
985. To shun evil company.
977. In harness
A. To kick out. B. To let loose.
A. In office B. To hold on
C. To give up. D. To put off.
C. Gripping D. In silence
986. Seamy side
978. Dog eat dog
A. The unpleasant aspects
A. Very vigilant
B. The gentler aspects C. The softer aspects
B. Steady manager
D. The pleasanter aspects
C. Ruthlessly competitive
987. A sacred cow
D. Hostile and unhelpful
A. A person or thing above criticism
979. Bald as a cue ball
B. A saintly person
A. Partially bald B. Not bald
C. A helpful person D. A very religious person
C. Completely bald D. Crazy
988. A dog’s breakfast
980. All hat and no cattle
A. A breakfast for the dogs.
A. One who puts others in trouble
B. An accurate summary.
B. One who is hardworking
C. A total mess.
C. One who doesn’t want to spend his own money
D. A breakfast being served by the dogs.
D. One who is full of big talk but lacks substance
and action 989. Sail in the same boat
981. To beat the rap A. Be in the same situation.
A. To destroy stereotypes B. Suspect something uncanny.
B. To be more successful than others C. Suspect something wrong
C. To avoid or escape punishment D. Be in a different situation.
Page No. 71
990. To be in a quandary
A. To be in a confusing situation 996. A dog in a manger
B. To be in an unenviable position A. Cold B. Selfless
C. To be on the alert C. Selfish D. Warm
D. To be in a commanding position 997. Chapter and verse.
991. Gnomes of zurich. A. Spoke like a preacher
A. Witchcraft of Zurich B. Foreign leaders B. Taught like a teacher
C. Swiss bankers C. Referred to religious books
D. Guardians of treasure D. Provided minute details
992. The jury is out 998. Bring the house down
A. No decision has been reached. A. Passed a bill unanimously
B. A jury member is absent. B. Amused the audience greatly
C. The entire jury decides to stay out of the C. Pulled down the house
proceedings.
D. Defamed a family building
D. The jury has taken a break between hearings. 999. Give somebody/something a wide berth
993. Arm-chair critic A. Pay more attention to B. Give a larger bed to
A. Someone who gives advice based on theory C. Share her seat with D. To stay away from
not practice
1000. Kith and kin
B. Someone who gives advice based on practice
not theory A. Niece and nephew B. Father and mother

C. Someone who gives advice based on C. Relatives D. Colleagues

experience 1001. Go berserk
D. Someone who never gives advice A. To become very lazy
994. Chip of the old block. B. To become very angry
A. A person of the old generation C. To be in trouble
B. An experienced old man D. To be happy
C. A common boy of the locality 1002. Horse sense
D. Someone similar in character to one’s father A. Advice of parents
995. Vote with their feet. B. Advice of teachers
A. Kick him out B. Show their disapproval C. Advice of colleagues
C. Stop him from speaking D. Basic common sense
D. Choose him as leader

Page No. 72
1003. A shot in the arm 1011. To take a chill pill
A. Something that gives encouragement 1. To ask a doctor for medication
B. Something that is painful 2. To drink cold water
C. Something that needs attention 3. To gulp a tablet for a cold
D. Something done with a purpose 4. To calm down
1004. Catch time by the forelock 1012. Want to curl up and die
A. Speed up B. Set up clock back 1. Want to die comfortably
C. Slow down D. Seize opportunity 2. Unable to sleep well
1005. Dry run 3. Feel terribly ashamed and sorry
1. Rehearsal of an event 2. Running in a desert 4. Too tired from physical labour
3. Running without shoes 4. Jogging in a park 1013. Be at a loss for words
1006. Once and for all 1. Habituated to using difficult words
1. Out of control 2. Finally 2. Not aware of the language
3. Happily 4. Effectively 3. Not know what to say
1007. Take a cue from someone 4. Lost the urge to speak
1. treat someone as very important 1014. Full of beans
2. wait patiently to listen to someone 1. A dish made of French beans
3. be strongly influenced by someone/behave in 2. Full of cowardice
the same way as someone else 3. A storeroom full of vegetables
4. take someone’s position in the queue 4. Full of energy
1008. Raise the bar
1015. To cut a long story short
1. To grow taller 2. To raise the price 1. Like to tell long stories
3. To win a competition 4. To set higher goals 2. Like to tell short stories
1009. Bang for the buck 3. Tell something briefly
1. Dash against something 4. Tell something in a roundabout way
2. More value for money 1016. To the nines
3. Less value for money 1. To be exalted
4. A sorrowful heart
2. To be jealous
1010. To walk on air 3. To great depths
1. To feel very depressed 4. To perfection
2. To be completely free
3. To be very happy 4. To be very rich
Page No. 73
1017. Go easy on something 4. An angry and bad-tempered person
1. Fill one's plate easily 1023. Sit on the fence
2. Use only a small amount of/ to treat someone 1. Create conflicts 2. Protect something
in a gentle way 3. Avoid making a decision 4. Poke fun at people
3. Take as much as one wants 1024. Fair and square
4. Eat slowly and liberally 1. By any means available
1018. Pat on the back
2. According to the rules
1. Friendly tap to push someone 3. Beautiful in appearance 4. Calm and quiet
2. Praise or approval for doing something good 1025. A bad egg
3. Good massage for aches and pains 1. Someone who is dishonest and unreliable
4. Mild form of disapproval or blame 2. Someone who regularly makes mistakes
1019. A kick in the teeth 3. Someone who doesn't like eggs
1. Severe toothache 4. Someone who likes to break eggs
2. A grave setback
1026. Tide someone over
3. Removing tooth cavities 1. Complete a voyage successfully
4. Hitting someone hard 2. Give temporary help, usually financial
1020. A stumbling block 3. Ask someone for financial assistance
1. Putting stones along the way 4. Get a boat ready to cross a river or water body
2. An obstacle to progress 1027. To pay lip service
3. Skipping over a hurdle 1. To ask for permission 2. To be insincere
4. Removing stones on the way
3. To make loud statements
1021. Lion's share 4. To talk out of turn
1. The strongest and richest partner in a group 1028. To get the ball rolling
2. The part that must be left for the guests in a 1. To match an opponent
party
2. To keep working until late
3. The greatest and most desirable portion of
something 3. To play a ball game well 4. To begin a process

4. The sound produced by a lion when it is 1029. On the horizon

attacking a prey 1. The successful beginning of a business venture
1022. A live wire 2. A plan for the distant future
1. An influential and powerful person 3. An event that is likely to end soon
2. A very active or energetic person 4. An event that is likely to happen soon
3. A dangerous and evil person
Page No. 74
1030. On cloud nine 3. Feel seasick 4. Feel lost or confused
1. Extremely happy 1037. Twiddling one’s thumbs
2. Flying with a parachute 1. Feeling hungry 2. Feeling bored
3. Frequently flying by air 4. Extremely sad 3. Feeling angry 4. Feeling sad
1031. Draw the line at something 1038. Out of the blue
1. Agreeing to an idea 1. Beat someone black and blue
2. Accept something up to a particular point 2. Loves to wear only blue colour clothes
3. Coming to a conclusion 3. Completely honestly
4. Making pencil sketches 4. Completely unexpectedly
1032. To be light years away 1039. To fan the flames
1. An extremely long time from now in the past or 1. To resolve the issue amicably
future 2. To call for help to solve an issue
2. To be too distant for human beings to reach 3. To cool the situation
3. An unlikely event that happened suddenly
4. To make a bad situation worse
4. When something seems like it is about to 1040. To draw a bead upon
happen in the near future
A. To make prayers
1033. A square deal
B. To cause hindrance in work
1. A fair agreement 2. An unfair agreement
C. To count the benefits D. To take aim at
3. A nice decoration
1041. To come round
4. A dishonest transaction
A. To meet someone by chance
1034. On edge
B. To become conscious again
1. Keeping things safely
C. To go round and round
2. Doing exercises regularly
D. To spend a lot of time with someone
3. Nervous and unable to relax
1042. Cook the books
4. Playing a tiring game
A. To write books on cooking
1035. The gift of the gab
B. To falsify financial records
1. Loves to give gifts 2. Writes very well
C. To be a good editor D. To be a good writer
3. Used to grabbing others’ gifts
1043. On the wane
4. Talks well and persuasively
A. On the rise B. Out of control
1036. Feel at sea
C. At the peak D. On the decline
1. Feel comfortable while travelling by water
2. Feel angry

Page No. 75
1044. To strike one's colours D. Very interesting to know
A. To listen carefully B. To make a guess 1052. Keep up appearances
C. To surrender D. To be victorious A. To pretend to be happier or richer so as to
conceal the real situation
1045. Apples and Oranges
B. To spend a lot of time on appearances so as to
A. Two unlike things or people
lead the fashion world
B. People working together on a project
C. To deliberately appear shabby and not care to
C. People with similar approaches impress people
D. Two similar situations with likely results D. To waste a lot of money on mindless shopping
1046. Hale and hearty. and not bother about the consequences

A. Happy B. Superior 1053. Under the gun

C. Healthy D. Friendly A. To be cruel B. To be brave

1047. Watch one’s step C. To be killed D. To be under

pressure
A. be punished severely
1054. To burn all bridges
B. warning to someone to walk or act carefully
A. To chase all enemies B. To light a fire
C. revealing the secret information
C. To damage a path D. To destroy all relations
D. put off work for another day
1055. Bag and baggage
1048. Make ducks and drakes of
A. Very dear B. Intimate friend
A. To get angry B. To waste
C. At one’s command D. With full luggage
C. To carry D. To laugh at
1056. To tempt providence
1049. Be an open book
A. to invite punishment B. to achieve a fortune
A. Be insensitive
C. to take reckless risks
B. To be easy to understand
D. to have God's favour
C. Be the center of attraction D. Be supported
1057. In the prime of life
1050. Long and short of it
A. In the best period of life B. At open enmity
A. Hardly and suddenly B. Light and dark
C. In writing D. Blood relations
C. The summary of the matter
1058. There's nothing new under the sun
D. Day and night
A. something that existed but not found today
1051. Plain as day
B. something that has been existing for long
A. Visible only in broad daylight
C. something that exists for a day
B. Very simple and easy to do
D. something that is not pre-planned
C. Very obvious and easy to understand

Page No. 76
1059. Clamp down on C. Doing something that fails someone’s plan
A. someone very precious or dear D. Spoiling the apples in someone's cart
B. miss the chance C. raining very heavily 1066. let your hair down
D. to act strictly to prevent something A. to live a careless life
1060. Fray at the edges B. to become conscious of your looks
A. not completely perfect C. to become very uncaring about others
B. show an appropriate behaviour D. to take it easy and relax
C. to become less effective 1067. High time
D. evolve in something A. well in time for something
1061. Kick up a row B. time to fly high
A. cause a disturbance B. arrange in rows C. past the appropriate time
C. hit someone angrily D. break a queue D. time to celebrate something
1062. Grin from ear to ear 1068. Get your money’s worth
A. to make funny faces A. to be cheated in a purchase
B. to have very sharp ears B. to pay and get something of good value
C. to smile a lot because of happiness C. to buy something very expensive
D. to ridicule someone D. to get something of poor quality for free
1063. Go to the dogs. 1069. Tip of an iceberg.
A. Be taken over B. Be ruined A. Problem a ship faces on the ocean
C. Be successful D. Be profitable B. Something that has been in existence for a
long time
1064. The straw that broke the camel’s back
C. A legally punishable crime
A. To show strength and continue without a fuss
D. Something which is a small part of something
B. To be the last in a series of events leading one
much bigger
to feel that it is intolerable
1070. Reinventing the wheel
C. To undertake a difficult journey across a
desert A. Disturbing the system which has already been
in use
D. To make a wish for an escape from existing
conditions B. Examining circumstances that have already
been understood
1065. Upset someone’s applecart
C. Wasting one’s time for things that have
A. Upsetting someone by dropping the apples
already been satisfactorily done
B. Making someone angry by ruining business
D. Analysing various factors of happenings

Page No. 77
1071. Look before you leap C. said when two people have the same opinion
or make the same choice
A. Pull someone out from a disaster
D. intelligent people will think of plans to which
B. Think carefully of the consequences
everybody will say yes
C. Prepare yourself before jumping
1079. On her last legs
D. Caution others before taking a step
A. Happy and joyous
1072. Back in saddle
B. Near to death
A. Resume duty B. Put a new saddle
C. Sad and angry about life
C. Teach someone riding D. Learn how to ride
D. Anxious about other people
1073. Keep a civil tongue
1080. Give up the ghost
A. Speak with great politeness
A. to feel superior
B. Maintain silence when needed
B. to overcome one's fear
C. Express dissent mildly
C. to give encouragement D. to stop working
D. Argue with soft words
1081. Run into rough weather
1074. Hats off to someone
A. Experienced difficulties
A. Give hats to B. Make new hats for
B. Brought cool breeze and rains
C. Announce a prize for D. Congratulations to
C. Become stronger and firmer
1075. To tread on someone’s toes
D. Become pleasant and cordial
A. to be in power
1082. To throw a fit
B. to commence to fight
A. express extreme anger B. faint and fall down
C. to sacrifice one’s life D. to offend someone
C. caution someone about fitness
1076. Back to the salt mines
D. become unconscious
A. stuck in a dangerous place
1083. To paddle one’s own canoe
B. to eat salty food
A. To exercise hard B. To take rest
C. to behave badly D. back to work
C. Depend on oneself
1077. To have a jaundiced eye
D. To act in a childish way
A. to be very pleased
1084. As clear as a bell
B. to have yellowish eyes
A. to have a tinkling sound
C. to be prejudiced D. to have sore eyes
B. at a very low price
1078. Great minds think alike
C. to get fooled
A. when an evil plan is hatched criminals agree
D. readily understood
B. said to those people who don’t like each other
to make them agree
Page No. 78
1085. See the light of day C. Gives away D. Earn
A. teach someone 1093. Cross the bridge
B. finally happen/to become publicly known A. Deal something only where necessary
C. write it down D. explain to someone B. Not even think about the problem
1086. Catch on C. Not deal with the problem at all
A. Rejuvenating B. Secret affair D. Let someone else deal with the problem
C. To loose D. To become popular 1094. Run around in circles
1087. Cat's whiskers A. to remain busy with your work
A. a very easy matter B. to keep running to set a record
B. to be highly impressive C. to work excessively hard by keeping two jobs
C. to be very determined D. difficult to D. to keep doing something without achieving
understand much
1088. On the brink of 1095. Of the first water
A. to be alert B. to be near to A. of favorable opinion B. of ancient origin
C. not at all D. occasionally C. of the best quality D. of no significance
1089. You can say that again 1096. Teeth of tough resistance.
A. To challenge someone A. In a state of uncertainty
B. To express agreement B. In direct opposition to
C. To politely ask someone to repeat C. In collaboration with D. In a short span of
time
D. A favourite story
1097. Pass the hat
1090. The luck of the devil
A. to sell something B. to collect money
A. someone who creates problems
C. to play a game D. to avoid work
B. extremely lucky
1098. Explore every avenue
C. to accidentally or prematurely give out
information A. To run away B. To march forward
D. to buy something C. To look for every possible means
1091. Explore every avenue D. To be taken by surprise
A. To run away B. To march forward 1099. Go-getter
C. To look for every possible means A. one who does the right thing
D. To be taken by surprise B. a greedy person
1092. Puts by a little money every month. C. one who runs away D. a real achiever
A. Saves B. Spends

Page No. 79
1100. Bank on something 1107. Teething problems
A. To do transaction A. Problems encountered during the last stage of
a process
B. To rely on something
B. Problems encountered during the initial part
C. To be independent
of a process
D. To clear out something
C. Problems encountered during the whole
1101. Cut a sorry figure process
A. Not to stand straight D. Problems encountered during the middle part
B. Apologise for his remarks of a process

C. Create a strong impression 1108. Tongue -in -cheek

D. Make a poor impression A. Speak in an insincere/ non serious way

1102. To be pushing up daisies B. To praise wholeheartedly

A. To get up feeling fresh C. A. sensational news

B. To be dead and buried D. To say something hurtful

C. To smell like flowers 1109. Elvis has left the building

D. Once beautiful but now ugly A. when an attempt fails and it's time to start all
over.
1103. To carry all before one
B. deal with a problem if and when it becomes
A. Finish quickly B. Make a promise
necessary, not before.
C. Be free from danger D. Be completely
C. the show is over, go home.
successful
D. looking in the wrong place
1104. Ride roughshod
1110. Like a dying duck in a thunderstorm
A. Deal unkindly with/ Ignore the rights or
opinions of others A. Dejected B. Confident

B. Take for granted C. Daring D. Comfortable

C. Be ham -handed with D. Exploit willfully 1111. Teeth of tough resistance.

1105. To make a pile A. In a state of uncertainty

A. to keep at a distance B. In direct opposition to

B. to make a lot of money C. In collaboration with

C. to aggravate the situation D. In a short span of time

D. to face the risk 1112. Work like a charm

1106. Gave the game away A. to do something faster B. to delay a task

A. lost the game B. gave out the secret C. to work very well D. to do a magic trick

C. played badly D. withdrew from the game

Page No. 80
1113. To cast aspersions 1119. Wing it
A. to act as the pillar of support A. something that flies
B. to raise aspirations B. to do something without a plan
C. to make unpleasant remarks/criticise C. to book a trip D. to decline a lucrative offer
D. to dissolve all the differences 1120. To be in a pickle
1114. Melting pot A. to lead a dependent life
A. an earthen vessel B. to be in a tricky situation
B. a cooking utensil C. to eat sour foods D. to be hungry
C. an iron cauldron 1121. Be down with
D. different types of people blend together as one A. Suffering from B. In grief with
1115. To lead by the nose C. In pain with D. Aching with
A. to hit someone on the nose 1122. To lead astray
B. to completely control someone A. To take back what you have said
C. to burden someone with work B. To misguide
D. to depend totally on someone C. To achieve two results with one effort
1116. Wouldn't hurt a fly D. To apologize humbly
A. to be coward B. to be very poor 1123. Move the needle
C. to be inoffensive and harmless A. to deceive someone B. to be vigilant
D. to be indifferent C. to receive great honour
1117. Dog in the manger. D. to make a significant difference.
A. A person who puts himself in difficulties on 1124. A shot in the dark
account of other people. A. To love to go out on adventures
B. A dog that has no kennel of its own. B. To be able to work very quickly
C. A person who prevents others from enjoying C. To be very violent
something useless to himself.
D. An attempt to guess something
D. An undersized bull almost the shape of a dog.
1125. A small fry
1118. Not have a leg to stand on.
A. unimportant
A. Had been injured in an accident
B. weak
B. Was lame
C. little
C. To be in a situation in which you cannot prove
something D. to praise others trumpeting

D. Would have to wait for some time

Page No. 81
1126. Alphabet Soup 1133. Hard and fast
A. incomprehensible or confusing mix A. that is difficult to solve B. that can be altered
B. something outstandingly good C. that is very quick
C. fashionable and glamorous D. that cannot be altered
D. privileged people 1134. Merry as a cricket
1127. Pick to pieces A. To enjoy a game of cricket
A. study something superficially B. To be carefree
B. complete a work entirely C. To dance and sing
C. to criticize harshly D. To be good at sport
D. to pick the broken pieces 1135. Turn an honest penny.
1128. Pipe down A. Make a legitimate living/ to earn money
honestly
A. To ask someone to be loud
B. To distribute money to needy people
B. To ask someone to be quiet
C. Have a luxury living
C. To beat someone badly D. To assault someone
D. Become more miser
1129. Cheek by jowl
1136. A chill to the heart
A. Very close together B. Arguing
A. Caused anger B. Caused relief
C. Teasing one another
C. Aroused fear D. Awakened
D. A. voiding one another
bitterness
1130. To hail from
1137. Set their face against the invader.
A. call B. receive
A. Became enemies B. Turned away from
C. arrive D. come from
C. Faced difficult D. Opposed strongly
1131. A cuckoo in the nest
1138. Turns up her nose
A. One who likes to stay at home
A. Despises B. Loves
B. A. view from a high place
C. Sees no harm in D. Can just tolerate
C. An unwelcomed intruder
1139. Dead letter.
D. One who is chosen as the leader of the group
A. Not well thought out B. No longer effective
1132. Had gone down the drain
C. No longer available
A. was lost forever
D. Not in keeping with the changing times
B. dropped in the drain
1140. Brown study
C. got washed away
A. Reverie B. Sleep
D. her money was safe
C. Fear D. Dream

Page No. 82
1141. Not playing with a full deck 1148 . New kid on the block
A. Someone who lacks intelligence. A. New rules which are bound to fail.
B. Happens very rarely B. A junior.
C. To have no idea, do not know the answer to a C. A new social trend. D. A newcomer.
question 1149. To bait the hook to suit the fish
D. To not have enough resources A. to prepare a box to pack the fish
1142.Take a hike
B. to do things to please others
A. Get increment in salary B. Get promoted C. to look at things from other person’s point of
C. Get dismissed from job D. Get lost view
1143 . Shades of grey D. to catch fish by
A. Monotonous life 1150. Nose around
B. Dark side of something A. to ignore B. to lose
C. Not clear if right or wrong C. to explore/ to search D. to cry about
D. A story with negative morals 1151. Argus eyed
1144. Pig in a poke A. a pretence B. flatterer
A. To buy something without examining it first C. short tempered D. observant
B. To pet a pig at one’s house 1152. To take with a grain of salt
C. To thwart someone’s progress A. to view with skepticism
D. To act in reckless manner B. to take with total belief
1145. Alarums and Excursions C. to take whole heartedly
A. value for money and time D. to take seriously
B. confused activity and uproar 1153. Lean and mean
C. source of fun or amusement (a) To destroy something
D. derive excitement or pleasure from (b) To create something
1146. A drop in a bucket (c) Using only what is necessary
A. As much as possible B. Nothing at all (d) Not afraid dangerous situations
C. A handsome amount 1154. Next to nothing
D. A very insignificant amount (a) Hardly anything
1147 . Raining cats and dogs (b) To produce
A. To rain heavily B. To win a big lottery (c) Without answer
C. To get wealth beyond what one deserves (d) Reject without consideration
D. To become filthy rich by honest means
Page No. 83
1155. Every trick in the book 1163. Meet one’s waterloo
(a) Nothing Happening (b) Be optimistic (a) Waste time here and there
(c) Try every possible way (d) Forgive someone (b) Going for journey
1156. Keep your eyes peeled (c) Meet ones final end and get defeated
(a) To watch carefully (d) Begin from scratch
(b) Searching someone 1164. Hit the hay
(c) Looking forward (d) Running away (a) Go to bed (b) Go to play
1157. Get one's feet wet (c) Go to bath (d) Going to school
(a) To become serious 1165. Word of mouth
(b) To understand correctly (a) To make promise (b) Wrong information
(c) To criticize (c) To spread by talking (d) To someone happy
(d) To begin gaining experience/ become used to 1166. Bread and butter
a new situation (a) One's income (b) One's basic meal
1158. A bitter pill
(c) Very easy (d) To dislike
(a) Facing unpleasant situation 1167. Food for thought
(b) Cause of trouble (a) Something to think about seriously
(c) To reveal a secret (b) Feeling good (c) Thinking about food
(d) Not to listen to (d) Determination to solve a problem
1159. Make a name for oneself 1168. In the nick of time
(a) To gain fame (b) To disturb others (a) Just in Time (b) Reach after job done
(c) To help others (d) Escape from
(c) Reach before time (d) Doing nothing
trouble
1169. Make mouth water
1160. Throw in the towel
(a) Arguing with someone
(a) Make all possible effort (b) Using any means
(b) Make someone hungry
(c) Accept defeat (d) Ignore others
(c) Make someone angry (d) Avoid conflict
1161. To give vent to
1170. To cast aspersions
(a) Express (b) Cause Trouble
(a) To talk carefully
(c) Lose Courage (d) Circulate
(b) To talk secrets
1162. To get wind
(c) To make insulting remark
(a) To fly (b) To forget
(d) To run away
(c) Come to know (d) To tell

Page No. 84
1171. Off track (d) When the moment of decision arrives
(a) Speaking unnecessary (b) To lose focus 1179. all and sundry
(c) Make mistake (a) watchful (b) destroy
(d) Achieving impossible (c) everyone (d) final
1172. To call into question 1180. Apple-pie order
(a) To write a letter (b) To voice a strong protest (a) a sudden shock (b) perfect order
(c) To doubt (d) To scold (c) all belongings
1173. To go to the wall (d) cause of contention
(a) To be ruined (b) To be idle 1181. To put the cart before the horse
(c) To be in grave trouble (d) To go for a holiday (a) to imagine a fine future
1174. Waking up on the wrong side of the bed (b) to do things the wrong way
(a) Not Agree with someone (c) to have a private end to serve
(b) Feeling unhappy (d) to have bitter enemies
(c) Disrespect 1182. Eye-wash
(d) To make promise 1.By force 2.A pretence/ deceptive
1175. Put up with 3.Come to nothing 4.A secret
(a) to live with someone 1183. Well disposed to
(b) to express something 1. In fashion
(c) to put in a higher position 2. To look sad
(d) tolerate 3. Friendly with somebody 4. Shortage
1176. To give currency 1184. To give a good account of oneself
(a) To make publicly known 1.To act in a creditable way
(b) To misinterpret 2.To fight
(c) To bestow importance (d) To originate 3.To happen 4. To get astounded
1177. Queer Fish 1185. A blue stocking
(a) Sea fish (b) Strange person 1.An educated lady 2.A bully
(c) Fashionable Man (d) Cooked fish 3.A dead person 4.An extremely rich person
1178. When the Church comes 1186. Do not look a gift horse in the mouth
(a) When desperate 1.Poor and ruined 2.To be worthless
(b) When the Church is built 3.Don't criticize 4.To give a gift
(c) At the point of religious awakening

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1187. Beside the mark 1. Not able to prove logical
1.Outrageous 2.Dependent 2. Squander
3.Irrelevant 4.Fascinating 3. To occur to oneself
1188. Window shopping 4. To understand
1.To feel dejected 2.To appreciate 1197. Hang together
3.To look at things displayed but not buying them 1. Hopeful 2. To weaken the power
4.To buy things 3. Support one another
1189. Be down in the mouth 4. To tell a secret
1. To feel dejected 2. In brief 1198. In tune with
3. Scattered things 4. Very important 1. About to collapse 2. To praise oneself
1190. Tall stories 3. To pacify the matter 4. In agreement with
1. To get into trouble 2. To happen 1199. To be nipped in the bud
3. To write a long story 4. Exaggerated stories 1. To destroy in the very beginning
1191. A Spartans life 2. To be suspicious
1. Life of an ascetic 2. To work together 3. To abuse 4. To come to nothing
3. To continue 4. A lot of money 1200. To stand in good stead
1192. To have too many things at a time 1. To confess 2. To be helpful in need
1. To make a speech 3. To die 4. To praise
2. Doing many things at a time 1201. To give a wide berth
3. To deceive 4. To make a request 1.To disclose 2.To agree
1193. To sail under false colours 3.To value 4.To avoid
1. A hypocrite 2. To extinguish 1202. Palmy days
3. In prefect situation 1.Last creation 2.False hope
4. To listen with patience 3.Official day 4.Prosperous
1194. To be up and doing 1203. To have feet of clay
1. To be active 2. To be confused 1.Large part 2.Secrets
3. To end a conflict 4. To kill 3.Full of faults 4.Extremely happy
1195. To take to task 1204. Keep one's powder dry
1. In a dilemma 2. To be unwell A. To be fussy B. To remain cautious
3. To be hostile 4. To scold C. To be angry and violent
1196. Not hold water D. To remain unmarried

Page No. 86
1205. Between the devil and the deep sea A. Copying content of an author
A. A deep sea diver B. To be evil tempered B. Imitate or copy someone
C. In a dilemma C. leaves that are preserved in database for
research
D. A man who is drowning
D. Intervening other's business
1206. To go beyond
1214. To get bent out of shape
A. To remain neutral
A. To get perfect physique B. To get upset
B. To be busy over trifles
C. To bend the rules
C. To be unreliable D. To exceed
D. To stand alone and unique in a group
1207. Make merry
1215. Balloon goes up
A. To enjoy a game of cricket
A. To be attentive
B. To enjoy yourself
B. A situation turning unpleasant/serious
C. To get married D. To be good at
sport C. A happy occasion D. Get up early
1208. Fall through 1216. The royal road
A. Be unsuccessful B. Reduce A. An easy way B. A troublesome way
C. Tear out D. Fall down C. A grand idea
1209. A bee in your bonnet D. A luxurious life style
A. Speak succinctly B. Stay up 1217. Whiter than white
C. Go wild D. Obsessed with an idea A. Completely foolish B. Completely blank
1210. Fell all over C. Customary D. Completely honest
A. Ignored B. Clamour 1218. Going places
C. Over enthusiastic D. Tripped A. To go to the home back
1211. Reinventing the wheel. B. Talented and successful
A. Wasting time B. Construct a wheel C. To go on a visit To be angry
C. Repeating thoughts D. Growing D. An adventurous event in life
continuously 1219. Royal shaft
1212. To break the back of anything A. Royal treatment
A. Perform the most difficult part B. Royal food
B. Providing support C. Bad or unfair treatment
C. Getting into fight D. An expensive possession
D. Talking to people who are from diverse culture
1213. Take a leaf out of one's book

Page No. 87
1220. Out of whack. 1228. Gave vent to their feelings.
A. Vitiated A. To express B. To emphasise
B. Flawed C. To suppress D. To dismiss
C. Out of order/ not working properly 1229. Man in the street
D. Tired A. The homeless man B. The ordinary man
1221. To put a spanner in the works. C. The man who works on the street
A. Facilitate D. The man who repairs roads
B. Hobble / to prevent something from happening 1230. Threw down the glove.
smoothly A. Accepted B. Defeat
C. Codify D. Whip C. Rejected the prize D. Gave a challenge
1222. Give up the ghost 1231. Cut off without a shilling
A. Give up a fear B. Give up in the war A. Disinherited B. Snubbed
C. To pass away / stop working C. Gave only a shilling D. Sent away with a
D. To rest for some time shilling
1223. Thrust your nose in 1232. Turn your nose
A. Advise me about B. Be in opposition A. Despises B. Sees no harm in
C. Deal with C. Can just tolerate D. To refuse to accept
D. Meddle officiously in 1233. High and dry
1224. Yeoman‘s service A. Wounded B. alone
A. Medical help B. Excellent work C. Happy D. Neglected
C. Social work D. Slow work 1234. Currying favour
1225. Deaf ear A. Helping B. Favouring
A. Paid no heed B. Listened carefully C. Dislike
C. Turned his ear away D. Inaudible D. Ingratiating oneself / Try to make someone
like you
1226. Stand on his feet
1235. Face against
A. To be physically strong B. To be independent
A. Became enemies B. Turned away from
C. To stand erect D. To be successful
C. Faced difficulty D. Opposed strongly
1227. Making hay while the sun shines.
1236. Sharp practices
A. Taking advantage of a favourable opportunity
A. Dishonest means B. Illegal means
B. Earning money through dishonest means
C. Intelligent decisions D. Quick decisions
C. Earning money at the cost of others
D. Taking advantage of the inflationary trends
Page No. 88
1237. Shook in their shoes C. No benefit D. Not make proud
A. Stamped the ground with their shoes 1246. Helter-skelter
B. Showed signs of anger A. In great fear B. In disorderly haste
C. Trembled with fear D. Stood up to salute C. In haste D. In great sorrow
1238. Thee at thy word 1247. To run one down
A. Listen to you carefully B. Do not believe you A. To be in a hurry B. To be quick
C. Feel angry with you D. Truly believe you C. To disparage
1239. Blue-eyed boys D. Someone to run down a lane
A. Royal children B. Young boys 1248. Stave off an open battle
C. Foreigners D. Favourites A. Postpone B. Wait and see
1240. Green-eyed monster C. Allow it to take its own course
A. Anger B. Hatred D. Prevent
C. Envy D. Jealousy 1249. Pay through his nose
1241. To steer clear of A. Pay huge loans B. Pay a reasonable price
A. Drive carefully B. Avoid C. Pay an extremely high price
C. Explain clearly D. Escape D. Make a quick buck
1242. Stand-offish 1250. Out and out
A. Angry B. Hilarious A. Totally B. Simply
C. Indifferent D. Unmanageable C. Merely D. Slightly
1243. Heads will roll 1251. Token strike
A. Transfers will take place A. Total strike
B. Heads will be cut oil B. Carefully planned strike
C. People will die C. Short strike held as a warning
D. Dismissals will occur D. Sudden call of strike
1244. No bones 1252. Look down upon
A. Did not have any hesitation in A. Sympathise with B. Hate intensely
B. Did not have any faith in C. Be indifferent to D. Regard with contempt
C. Demanded compensation for 1253. Ever and anon
D. Had problems in A. True promise B. False promise
1245. Cut no ice C. Frequent D. Occasionally
A. Had no influence B. Did not hurt

Page No. 89
1254. Die-hard 1262. Charley horse
A. Very weak B. About to die A. Very rapid B. Very weak
C. Living life D. Persistent/ determined C. Stiffness D. Boldness
1255. By and by 1263. By dint of
A. Soon B. Finally A. By means of B. By grace of
C. Gradually D. Unexpectedly C. By fear of D. By blessing of
1256. Carrot and stick policy 1264. Broken Reed
A. Reward and punishment A. Continue support B. Support that failed
B. Dishonest C. Support endlessly D. Broken into pieces
C. Arrogant D. Selfish policy 1265. Brow Beat
1257. Be built upon sand A. To bully B. To respect
A. Established on insecure foundations C. To praise D. To rebuke
B. Based on inexperience 1266. Black and Blue
C. Resting on cheap material A. To put things in order
D. Resting on immature ideas B. To put things in disorder
1258. Call names C. To trust someone
A. To praise B. To abuse D. To beat very badly
C. To respect D. To order 1267. Bandy words
1259. Look sharp A. To argue B. To request
A. Be careful B. Make haste C. To give respect D. To be polite
C. Be punctual D. Be sensible 1268. Away with the fairies
1260. Cloven hoof A. Not facing reality
A. The evil intention B. On the basis of reality
B. The nice intention C. Shocking stage
C. To do something religious D. Very sad
D. To help someone silently 1269. A pig in a poke
1261. Cry for the moon A. Accept deal in a pressure
A. To wish for something impossible B. Accept deal without knowing
B. To wish for something accessible C. Accept deal after detail analysis
C. To try to have something by bad means D. Accept deal due to threat
D. To waste efforts

Page No. 90
1270. Run its course D) Someone who is a disgrace to the rest of the
group
A. Continue for a long time
1279. At one fell swoop
B. Become very popular
A) Without any doubt B) By chance
C. Develop and then come to its usual end
C) In a single action D) By mistake
D. End very soon
1280. Back of beyond
1271. A load of cobblers
A) A remote place B) Crowded place
A. Good news B. Very famous
C) Religious place D) A busy place
C. Rubbish D. Burden
1281. A bigger bang for your back
1272. Argus eyed
A) Threat to your money
A. Doubtful B. Very Confident
B) More for your efforts
C. Very Calm D. Careful
C) More for your money D) A big theft
1273. First blush.
1282. Egg on
A. First attempt B. First sight
A) To urge somebody B) To eat more eggs
C. First step D. First phase
C) Hitting the gym D) To annoy
1274. At a loss
1283. Follow suit
A. At a business loss B. At a relation loss
A) To act in a like manner
C. To be unable to decide D. To be afraid
B) To follow somebody very closely
1275. For a song.
C) To chase
A. Very cheaply B. On loan
D) To be formal
C. At a loss D. Very easily
1284. Lost in the clouds
1276. All in all
A) To imagine B) To doubt weather
A. Everything B. Particular thing
C) To feel happy D) Confused
C. same in all D. Call all at once
1285. Odds and ends
1277. In the red
A) Various items of different types and of little
A. Making money
value
B. Losing money
B) Interesting endings
C. In danger D. Pending money
C) Often mistaken
1278. A black sheep
D) Very strange
A) One who takes no share in profit
1286. Wry face
B) An ugly person
A) Disappointed look B) Burned face
C) An unlucky person
C) Black person D) Happy face

Page No. 91
1287. Rock the boat B. Cause someone else to suffer in order to save
oneself
A) To be very energetic
C. To push someone before a moving vehicle
B) To be happy always
D. To be a traveller or the one who travels a lot
C) To upset the balance
1294. Cup of Joe
D) To be quick
A. A cup with Joe printed on it
1288. Keep abreast of
B. A cup of coffee
A) To not waste time in waiting
C. A cup of tea
B) Stay up-to –date with the recent
developments D. A difficult situation for someone
C) To live within one's means 1295. Knuckle sandwich
D) None of the above A. A cheerful person
1289. Be given the axe B. A dish which is tasteless
(A) To loose job (B) To be ruined C. A delicious sandwich
(C) To die (D) To be suspicious D. A punch in the mouth.
1290. Go cold turkey 1296. Can of worms
A. To become a coward A. More easy way B. Most difficult issue
B. To stop doing or using something C. Very attractive D. Very useful
C. Abruptly and completely D. Indifferent 1297. Join the club
1291. To talk turkey A. To take revenge B. Satisfy with others
A. To have a power nap C. Excited to invite D. Sympathy to others
B. Don't give up the day job 1298. Name will be mud.
C. Not to pursue something at which they are A. Good appreciation B. Made celebrity
unlikely to be successful. C. Bad reputation D. Got award
D. To discuss something honestly and directly 1299. Hole and corner
1292. Fat chance A. Strict B. Servile
1. Very little or no possibility C. Secret D. Suspicious
2 . A great opportunity 1300. Go dutch
3 . Something likely to happen A. Divide the costs B. Pay for each other's meal
4. An unfavourable time C. Go together D. Drive together
1293. Throw someone under the bus 1301. Hanging fire
A. To make someone meet with the accident 1. Delay in taking a decision 2. Hotly debated
3. In danger 4. Ignored
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1302. Like a dog with two tails. 1311. As thick as two short planks.
A. very morose B. very enthusiastic (a) very quiet (b) very slow
C. very greedy D. very happy (c) very wooden (d) very stupid
1303. Said a mouthful 1312. Thin time of it.
A. lengthy remark B. angry remark (a) finding it difficult without friends
C. abusive remark D. precise remark (b) finding it difficult without support
1304. Cold feet (c) finding it difficult without help
A. unwell B. afraid (d) finding it difficult without money
C. hesitant D. excited 1313. Make a killing in the stock market.
1305. Clear the air (A) Lose money quickly
A. reduce pollution B. discuss openly (B) Plan a murder quickly
C. reveal feelings D. be untruthful (C) Murder someone quickly (D) Make money
quickly
1306. Laid it on the line
1314. Up to your ears
A Scold B Be disappointed
(A) To ignore (B) To forget
C Speak frankly D Resigned
(C) To be busy with or deeply involved in a thing
1307. out of the top drawer.
(D) To criticise
(a) of great wealth
1315. To be at one’s finger’s end
(b) of high social standing
(a) To be hopeless (b) To be highly perplexed
(c) of considerable education
(c) To be completely conversant with
(d) of great intellectual ability
(d) To count things
1308. Top up their grants
1316. To be old as the hills :
(a) stay with (b) keep to
(a) To be very ancient
(c) add to (d) get to
(b) To be wise and learned
1309. top dog around
(c) To be old but foolish (d) Not being worth the
(a) the most arrogant person
age
(b) the most important person
1317. To mind one’s P’s and Q’s :
(c) the most popular person
(a) To be cautious
(d) the most unusual person
(b) To be accurate and precise
1310. thin on top.
(c) To be careful of one’s accounts
(a) losing his hair (c) losing his popularity
(d) To be careful of one’s personality
(b) losing his memory (d) losing his strength

Page No. 93
1318. duck to water. (d) To be kept waiting for sometime
(a) like taking the duck to water 1326. Be in the mire :
(b) like bursting out suddenly (a) Be under debt (b) Be in love
(c) like dropping the duck in the water (c) Be in difficulties (d) Be uneasy
(d) like easily and naturally speaking 1327. to carve out a niche
1319. made away with (a) became a sculptor
(a) earned (b) did the best he could do
(b) ran away with/ escape with something stolen (c) destroyed his career
(c) squandered (d) saved (d) developed a specific position for himself
1320. let off steam 1328. to the letter.
(a) to release tension (b) to show anger (a) about writing letters
(c) to show approval (b) written in the letter
(d) to show enthusiasm (c) Exactly and precisely (d) very thoughtfully
1321. to feel pulse 1329. Along in years
(a) find views (b) enlighten (A) Getting tired (B) Getting old
(c) argue with (d) guide (C) Becoming successful (D) Long time
1322. Deadwood 1330. A babe in the woods
(a) Insensitive (b) Dead (A) Someone who is young
(c) Emotionless (B) Someone who cuts trees
(d) People or things who are no longer useful (C) Someone who is innocent/ naïve in a
dangerous situation
1323. batten down the hatches
(D) Someone in danger
(a) stay in-door
1331. A gala day
(b) prepare for a difficult situation
(A) A rainy day (B) A day of festivity
(c) go somewhere safe (d) face the obstacles
(C) A day of brief (D) A relevant day
1324. go at equal speed
1332. To Beef up
(a) get away from (b) put up with
(A) To make something stronger
(c) keep up with (d) race against
(B) To have fun
1325. To cool one’s heels :
(C) To go crazy
(a) To rest for sometime
(D) None of the above
(b) To give no importance to someone
(c) To remain in a comfortable position

Page No. 94
1333. Few and far between 1340. Chicken feed
(A) Very very distant (A) A small amount of money
(B) Far and away (B) A lot of food
(C) Few in number but closely placed (C) A group of people gathering together
(D) Both few in number and distant (D) coward
1334. Light fingered person 1341. To kick up a row
(A) A person who is soft and tender. (A) To cause a disturbance
(B) A person whose handwriting is good. (B) To live with patience
(C) A person who is a good artist. (C) To break a queue (D) To compete
(D) A person who is a thief. 1342. To wash one’s dirty linen in public
1335. himself to himself (A) To wash one’s clothes in the open
(A) To remain silent (B) To do something ugly in public
(B) Not like to talk with others (C) To abuse the passers by
(C) To be proud of oneself (D) To discuss dirty and scandalous matter of
personal nature the presence of strangers
(D) To limit one’s feelings
1343. whale of time
1336. Keep tabs on
a. To enjoy yourself very much
(A) To keep under observation
b. To enjoy life
(B) To do something
c. To enjoy leisure time
(C) To follow strictly
d. To enjoy with loved ones
(D) To steal something
1344. candle at both ends
1337. In the teeth of
A. To exhaust oneself by working too much
(A) In the end (B) Real cause
B. becoming overgenerous
(C) In the face of (D) To chase
C. To pass time
1338. To go to the dogs
D. enthusiasm
(A) To come to grief (B) To go begging
1345. strike gold
(C) To be ruined (D) To make excuses
A. To have great success with something
1339. To talk shop
B. To discover gold
(A) To bore others with one’s talk.
C. Good luck
(B) To talk of something interesting.
D. Uncover or find a valuable line of argument or
(C) To talk exclusively of one’s own business.
information
(D) To talk of relevant things.

Page No. 95
1346. run into rough weather D. law of the parliament
A. create problems 1352. tread on the toes
B. encounter difficulties A. To offend or insult someone
C. confuse matters B. To follow them grudgingly
D. makes things difficult C. To treat them indifferently D. To be kicked by
them
1347. have your cake and eat it too.
1353. worth a jew's eye
A. Enjoy forever
A. Not a worthy possession
B. Have it both ways
B. unnecessary
C. Run away from responsibility
C. A costly items
D. selfish
D. A possession of high value
1348. Salad days
1354. scream blue murder
A. The period when one is young and
inexperienced A. Someone has been murdered with some blue
liquid
B. Difficult times
B. Someone is being murdered and has become
C. Old days
blue
D. Happy days
C. Suffer from persecution complex
1349. power behind the throne
D. Make a great deal of noise and object
A. The person who had the real control and vehemently
power
1355. small talk
B. The acknowledged leader
A. whispering B. backbiting
C. The person who controlled the monarch
C. gossip D. light conversation
D. The person who advised the queen
1356. die is cast
1350. sauce for the goose.
A. project is over
A. What is thought suitable pay for a man should
B. decision is made
also be for a woman
C. death is inevitable
B. Goose and the gender eat the same sauce
D. cloth has been dyed
C. Both goose and gander should be equally
treated 1357. A Rift in the lute.
D. In a hurry A. caused unnecessary worries
1351. lynch law B. brought about disharmony
A. law of the mob C. caused a pleasant atmosphere
B. law of the underworld D. brought about a disciplined atmosphere
C. law of the constitution
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1358. Did good turn 1366. By the skin of one's teeth
A. returned my kindness A. Hardly B. In time
B. did an act of kindness C. Hurriedly D. Only just
C. improved my prospects 1367. To catch somebody on the hop
D. became suddenly good A. To give someone a surprise
1359. standing up B. To catch somebody off guard
A. Boosting the claims of C. To stand in the way of someone
B. Championing the cause of D. To catch somebody suddenly
C. Seeking help of others for 1368. To cross swords
D. Moving about with A. To fight B. To defend
1360. cut to the quick C. To kill D. To rob
A. surprised B. hurt intensely 1369. To have an easy time of it
C. annoyed D. irritated A. To take the world lightly
1361. put in a word B. To indulge in frivolities
A. introduce B. assist C. To squander away resources
C. support D. recommend D. To have no problems and difficulties
1362. rank and file 1370. To stand to one's guns
A. the official machinery A. To keep the guns close to oneself even amid
danger
B. the ordinary members
B. To persevere when hardships press
C. the majority
C. To maintain dignified and unbending attitude
D. the cabinet ministers
D. To maintain one's position
1363. Bite the dust
1371. To take a leap in the dark
A. in agreement B. angry
A. To take risk B. To hazard oneself
C. indebted D. To be killed
C. To do a task secretly
1364. Run amok
D. To do a hazardous thing without any idea of
A. Energetic
the result
B. To behave without control in a wild way
1372. To give/get the bird
C. become annoyed D. feel disgusted
A. To get the awaited B. To have good luck
1365. Figure out
C. To send away/dismissed
A. Imagine B. Give birth
D. To get the impossible
C. Understand D. Depend

Page No. 97
1373. To get into a scrape C. To make publicity of a thing
A. To get into a muddle D. To attach artificial value to a thing
B. To find oneself in an awkward predicament 1380. To turn the other cheek
C. To get into irritating circumstances A. To sulk and suffer
D. To be trapped in a conspiracy B. To respond to violence with violence
1374. To have brush with C. To respond to violence with non-violence
A. To start painting D. To be indifferent to peace overtures
B. To have good and pleasing terms 1381. To keep the ball rolling
C. To be impressed D. To have a slight encounter A. To earn more and more B. To work constantly
1375. To set the people by ears C. To keep the activity going
A. To box the people D. To make the best use of
B. To insult and disgrace the people 1382. To pull one's socks up
C. To punish heavily D. To excite people to a A. To prepare B. To try hard
quarrel
C. To get ready D. To depart
1376. To make the grade 1383. To plough the sands
A. To fail in a task A. To work hard to achieve one's aim
B. To get good marks in an examination B. To afford hope or ground for expecting a good
C. To come out successful result
D. To make good one's previous loss C. To busy oneself in a way which cannot lead to
any profitable result
1377. To tempt providence
D. To advance one's position in life
A. To invite punishment
1384. To drink like a fish
B. To achieve a fortune
A. To drink little B. To drink alone
C. To take reckless risks
C. To be a drunkard
D. To have God's favour
D. To drink in the company of others
1378. To haul over the coals
1385. Foam in the mouth
A. To put hand in a wrong task
A. Bitten by a snake B. To reveal the secret
B. To throw into the fire
C. To be furious D. To be in the extreme
C. To put to task
hatred
D. To say the wrong words
1386. To make umbrage
1379. To give chapter and verse for a thing
A. To feel depressed B. To be offended
A. To produce the proof of something
C. To be satisfied D. To be pleased
B. To eulogize the qualities of a thing
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1387. Hush money C. To do unnecessary things
A. Money overdue B. Easy money D. To do menial jobs
C. Money earned by wrong means 1394. Pin-money
D. Bribe paid to secure silence A. Bribery
1388. To disabuse one's mind B. Money paid for compensation
A. To conceal something C. Alimony
B. To remove a misapprehension D. Allowance made to a lady for her expenses
C. To banish from one's mind a thought 1395. To turn the cover
D. To proceed cautiously so as to avoid risks and A. To take a new way of life B. To work hard
dangers C. To pass the crises D. To hide the
1389. To pay one back in the same coin reality
A. To provoke a person to quarrel 1396. To run amuck
B. To offer another polite attention A. To run a race B. To run about in frenzy
C. To retaliate C. To feel exhausted
D. To give a word of encouragement or praise to D. To run to somebody's help
another 1397. To keep the wolf away from the door
1390. Queer somebody's pitch A. To ward off poverty or hunger
A. Upset one's plan B. Reprimand him B. To keep off an unwanted and undesirable
C. Check him D. Work him up person
1391. To take the wind out of another's sails C. To keep safe
A. To manouevre to mislead another on the high D. To hold the difficulties and dangers in check
seas
1398. In double-quick time
B. To cause harm to another
A. Steadily B. Very quickly
C. To defeat the motives of another
C. Gradually D. Much time
D. To anticipate another and to gain advantage
1399. A bull in a china shop
over him
A. A person who is very ugly but loves the
1392. To live in clover
beautiful things of life
A. To live in great comfort and luxury
B. A person who takes a sadistic delight in
B. To live a carefree life harming innocent people
C. To be surrounded by cares and worries C. A person who becomes too excited where no
excitement is warranted
D. To live in great difficulty
1393. To carry the coal to Newcastle D. A person who is rough and clumsy where skill
and care are required
A. To work hard B. To finish a job
Page No. 99
1400. Get down to brass tacks C. Hard discipline D. In difficulties
A. Start unravelling the mystery 1407. To play on a fiddle
B. Begin to discuss secret matters A. To play upon a musical instrument
C. Begin to talk in plain, straight forward terms B. To play an important role
D. Discuss about the important or basic facts of a C. To be busy over trifles
situation D. To be busy over important matter
1401. By fair means or foul
1408. To mind one's P's and Q's
A. Without using common sense A. To be cautious
B. Without difficulty B. To be accurate and precise
C. In any way, honest or dishonest C. To be careful of one's accounts
D. Having been instigated D. To be careful of one's personality
1402. To oil the knocker 1409. To speak daggers
A. To instigate a person to do a job A. To abuse someone
B. To do a work with increased pace
B. To indulge in voracious talks
C. To tip the office-boy C. To speak to a person with hostility
D. To revive old enmity D. To get angry
1403. Grease someone’s palm 1410. To talk shop
A. To bribe B. To talk softly A. To talk nonsense B. To talk reasonably
C. Ransom to an enemy C. To talk about business or professional affairs
D. Money for compensation D. To abuse someone
1404. To cut the cackle
1411. To get the hang of a thing
A. To humiliate B. To annoy someone A. To know a secret
C. To act in a friendly way B. To understand the technique of something
D. To stop talking and start C. To find the cause of something
1405. To rip up old sores D. To retaliate
A. To revive a quarrel which was almost 1412. To go to each other hammer and tongs
forgotten
A. To fight with weapons
B. To censure someone in strong terms
B. To argue noisily
C. To strain one's thoughts to the most
C. To hug each other
D. To preserve oneself from harm
D. To go crazy about meeting each other
1406. Hard-pressed
A. Bewildered B. Insulted

Page No. 100

1413. A man of weight 1421. person after my own heart.
A. A fat person A.an object of mockery
B. To truthful and trustworthy man B.an emotional man
C. A man of importance D. A notorious man C. a happy go lucky fellow
1414. Pell-mell D. exactly to one's own liking
A. In hurried disorder 1422. threw cold water
B. Gaiety and excitement A. encouraged B. discouraged
C. Extremely worried D. In danger C. cleared D. rejected
1415. To hold a brief for 1423. goes to dogs.
A. To reveal information B. To hurry A. goes mad B. is insulted
C. To stay on for a brief period C. is ruined D. becomes brutal
D. To defend someone 1424. To spruce up
1416. To put one on one's mettle A. to jump with enthusiasm
A. To rouse one to do one's best B. to burst out on someone
B. To ruin somebody C. to get ready fast
C. To discourage a person D. to make to look cleaner, neater, or more
attractive
D. To incite a person to fight
1425. Chicken scratch
1417. To ride hell for Leather
A. wounds due to scratch of chicken
A. To ride with furious speed
B. very poor chicken dish
B. To adopt false means to succeed
C. very poor handwriting which is difficult to read
C. To work hard for a small accomplishment
D. very messy garden
D. To earn money by all means
1426. To sleep with the fishes
1418. to rock the boat.
A. Always be in a dream world
A. create possibilities B. conspire against
B. To make absurd excuses
C. upset the balance D. agitate against
C. To sleep peacefully D. To be dead
1419. clinched the issue.
1427. To be pushing up daisies
A. closed B. decided
A. To get up feeling fresh
C. finished D. started
B. To be dead and buried
1420. hole and corner method.
C. To smell like flowers
A. obscure B. usual
D. Once beautiful but now ugly
C. underhand/ Dishonest D. clever

Page No. 101

1428. Late in the day C. To have good ideas and make decisions
quickly in a difficult situation.
A. too old to work B. too ripe to eat
D. To be able to face anything.
C. too dark to see anything
1435. In for a penny, in for a pound
D. too delayed to be of any use
A. to ask someone what they are thinking about.
1429. Draw a blank
B. To be firmly committed to a particular course
A. be unsuccessful
of action
B. be happy about something
C. A person with no value
C. be unable to sketch
D. To be convinced that something is likely to
D. be lucky in a game happen
1430. an old hand 1436. Boil the ocean
A. experienced B. aged A. keep people interested in ideas or plans.
C. weak D. forgetful B. to cause someone to be very angry
1431. Put to the sword C. try to do something difficult or impossible
A. To put the sword back in scabbard D. failure to accept, acknowledge, or act against
B. To put someone to test a problematic situation

C. To be slain or executed D. To threaten 1437. A rare bird

someone A. An exceptional person or thing
1432. On the ball B. People having similar characters, interests, or
A. To be very close to a specific outcome or beliefs
condition C. A broad perspective on something
B. Healing or getting well D. Someone who causes trouble
C. Knowledgeable and competent 1438. Hang in there
D. Exactly on time A. Continue doing something difficult with
1433. To shrug off determination.

A. To deal with something easily & successfully. B. To do something pointless

B. To dismiss, ignore, or minimize the importance C. To get upset

of someone or something. D. Ignore someone
C. To fail to understand correctly. 1439. In high dudgeon
D. To malign image of someone. A. Very ugly
1434. Think on feet B. High pride
A. To act quickly to get the things you want. C. Resentfully
B. To interpret what someone is thinking. D. Enthusiastically

Page No. 102

1440. Go to seed C. What a narrow space
A. Become inspirational for a group of people D. What a beautiful place
B. Become untidy due to a lack of care 1447. Down the road
C. Go to an unknown place to find peace A. In future B. In the past
D. Get attention C. At present D. No particular time
1441. Come unglued 1448. Raising eyebrows
A. To achieve something easily A. To show surprise/ shock
B. To visit a place again and again B. Criticize
C. To live happily C. Support D. Instruct
D. To lose one's composure 1449. Step up the plate
1442. Pull for A. Take control B. Take a job
A. To discourage C. Take a responsibility for doing something
difficult
B. To encourage
D. Take an opportunity
C. Slumber
1450. The Holy Grail
D. To be embarrassed
A. The pious place of worship
1443. Dress the part
B. An important object or goal
A. To look shabby B. To look suitable
C. A very important place
C. To do a sin
D. Someone's destination of life
D. To suffer from illness
1451. Ball is in your court
1444. Like a dog with two tails
A. Be happy at the dance / ball room
A. To work on two opportunities simultaneously
B. It's up to you to make the decision
B. To get extremely confused
C. A very powerful person
C. To not let enjoy others D. To be very happy
D. Not speaking directly about an issue
1445. Scope out
1452. Pardon my French
A. To be out of the competition
A. Forgive me for being forgetful
B. To avoid a situation
B. Excuse my inappropriate choice
C. To make a preliminary inspection
C. Repeat a statement twice
D. To go out
D. Excuse my inappropriate language
1446. What a small world
1453. You scratch my back, I'll scratch yours
A. What a coincidence
A. Mutual favour B. Mutual understanding
B. What a challenging task
C. Mutual respect D. Mutual disliking
Page No. 103
1454. Bend one’s ear C. To look shabby D. No hope at all
A. A mild punishment B. To go for a long 1462. Forty winks
walk (a) Winking forty times
C. To talk to one for a long time (b) Sleep disorders
D. To do something without any permission (c) Long sleeping hours
1455. Up and doing (d) A short sleep during the day
A. To be expressive B. Active again
1463. Life in the raw
C. To reprimand D. To fall asleep (a) Life in its natural, unembellished state
1456. To have a brush with (b) Life at its easiest
A. To ask someone to brush his teeth (c) Life that is complex
B. To start cleaning (d) A daredevil's life
C. To go through a dilemma 1464. A paper tiger
D. To nearly encounter someone (a) A person or thing that appears threatening
1457. Hang up one’s hat but is ineffectual
A. To take up residence somewhere (b) To threaten someone but do no harm
B. To accept a challenge (c) Environmental protection paper-work
C. To start deceiving a community of people (d) To speak to people in a roaring voice
D. To go on an unplanned trip 1465. Penny-wise and pound-foolish
1458. Chew the fat (a) Wise to spend each penny carefully
A. To work hard (b) Careful about small amounts but careless
about large amounts
B. To chew in an unpleasant manner
c) People who don't understand the importance
C. To gossip D. To remove a difficulty
of each penny
1459. Turn the corner
d) Careful about large amounts but careless
A. To flatter enough to gain an advantage about small amounts
B. Pass the critical point successfully 1466. Pin back your ears
C. To turn upset suddenly (a) To listen carefully to something
D. Fail to recover a difficult phase of life (b) Person or organization that pins important
1460. Heavy tidings issues

A. Bad news B. An overwhelming state (c) To keep yourself away from hearing had stuff

C. An innovative act D. Unexpected venture (d) To clean your ears with a pin

1461. Dog’s chance

A. A required opportunity B. Miserable life
Page No. 104
1467. Turncoat B. Your future depends on what choices you
make now
(a) Expert at altering coats
C. To do something using one's own experience
(b) Someone who deserts one group to join
and judgement
another
D. Nothing worthwhile can be achieved if you sit
(c) A truly dishonest person
in one place
(d) Going round and round in a court of law
1474. Curiosity killed the cat
1468. Say your piece
A. A person who constantly keeps asking
(a) Speak but don't listen stances questions is avoided by everybody
(b) Speak in a talkative manner B. Everybody has a fatal weakness
(c) Make your argument piece by piece C. Being inquisitive about other people's affairs
(d) Express your opinion may get you into trouble

1469. Top-notch D. Everyone feels like killing a nagging person

(a) The highest marking on a tree or a building 1475. Zero tolerance

(b) Person or organization that attracts only the (a) Accuracy is paramount
top (c) Of highest possible quality (b) Non-acceptance of antisocial behaviour
(d) Person of integrity (c) No return without risk (d) No problem at all
1470. Under the table 1476. Flesh and blood
(a) Work under difficult circumstances (a) a very gory murder scene
(b) Working undercover (b) a lot of hard work
(c) Working under furniture (c) loss of lives in battle
(d) Making or receiving payments surreptitiously (d) A person's physical body and their needs.
1471. At the drop of a hat 1477. To go for broke
(a) Clumsy person who drops hats everywhere (a) to risk everything in an all-out effort
(b) Suddenly and without much thought (b) failure in relationship or partnership
(c) Do something without much pressure (c) losing all money in an effort to revive a failing
(d) A happy and easygoing teen business
1472. Born to the purple (d) to start again after failing in a business
A. Born in a poor family B. Born into royalty 1478. To go the extra mile
C. Born with exceptional qualities (a) to get an unexpected bonus
D. Born to be famous (b) to make a special effort to achieve something
1473. By the seat of one's pants (c) to lose one’s way and walk aimlessly
A. When one is saved in the nick of time (d) a vehicle which is very fuel
Page No. 105
1479. Fixed in one’s ways (d) Be blind and fall into a trap
(a) not wanting to change how one does things 1484. Sow wild oats
(b) one will succeed if one does not change their (a) To make someone fool
path (b) To make space to red
(c) trapped in a particular unpleasant situation (c) To take revenge
(d) a dilemma of two different paths (d) To waste time by doing foolish things
1480. Fuddy-duddy 1485. Adam’s ale
(a) An ill mannered person that one accepts (a) Gift (b) Food
willingly because he/she is a very dear friend (c) Water (d) Belongings
(b) a person who is very old-fashioned and 1486. Damp squib
conservative
(a) Complete failure (b) Complete knowledge
(c) a shoddy work (d) a very confusing situation
(c) To motivate (d) To squander money
1481. Graveyard shift
1487. To have something on the brain
(a) to work in a very scary place
(a) To be obsessed with something
(b) a place where one is forced to work so hard
that it almost kills you (b) To be ready with an immediate smart witty
reply
(c) to work with a team where everybody else is
very lazy (c) To unable to solve a particularly difficult
philosophical problem
(d) a work shift that runs through the early
morning hours (d) To think wistfully about past life

1482. Rat race 1488. In bad taste

(a) Make others fight for scraps and get sadistic (a) Not suitable or offensive
pleasure out of it (b) To be a bad cook
(b) Be an oppressive boss and treat employees (c) To have a poor choice of fashion style
like animals
(d) To express honest harsh opinion about
(c) A way of life in which people are caught up in
someone or something
a fiercely competitive struggle for wealth or
power 1489. To have at one’s fingertips

(d) Play games with the lives of other people and (a) To be very fast on the keyboard
see them run aimlessly (b) To be adroit with a percussion musical
1483. Whistle in the dark instrument

(a) Pretend to be unafraid (c) Recall of factual information at one’s

command
(b) A ray of hope in the worst of times
(d) To carefully note down minute details
(c) See a ghost while dreaming

Page No. 106

1490. To not have a clue 1496. Make an ass out of
(a) To be extremely poor (a) Cause someone or oneself to look foolish or
stupid
(b) To fail an examination
(b) Work very hard like a donkey
(c) To lose confidence at the last moment
(c) Be smart but act dumb (d) Make a mistake
(d) To not know about something
1497. Gnash your teeth
1491. Out of date
(a) Express rage (b) Brush your teeth
(a) Not have time; very busy
(c) Laugh hysterically (d) Take a big bite
(b) Not stick to the schedule
1498. Let something slip through one’s fingers
(c) Fail to find a partner (d) Old-fashioned
(a) Lose a wedding ring
1492. It goes without saying
(b) Not be able to understand a difficult concept
(a) To Silently bear the injustice
(c) Let go of certain unpleasant things
(b) Something which is implied to be obvious
(d) to waste an opportunity to achieve something
(c) There is no point in doing something after
1499. Learn by heart
you are told to do it
(a) To memorize something
(d) Break long relationship with someone
(b) Love something terribly
1493. To let someone off
(c) Learn a lesson by making a mistake
(a) To let someone fall
(d) Learn to control or hide your true feelings
(b) To leave someone in his present state
1500. Out at the elbows
(c) To release someone from blame
(a) By all means (b) Old
(d) To refuse to answer
(c) Poor (d) Forever
1494. Call it a day
1501. A nig - nog
(a) To start a job wishing for success.
(a) Watchful (b) Very old
(b) To take a break or a holiday.
(c) A fool (d) Rich
(c) Assign different days to different tasks.
1502. Set the tone for something
(d) To declare the end of a task
(a) Right tune and harmony
1495. Get the message
(b) To establish a particular mood or character
(a) Understand what is implied by a remark or
action (c) Musical Note
(b) Communicate using a secret language (d) Orchestra in full swing
(c) Find it difficult to understand a different 1503. Fling away
language a. to have an affair b. to flare up
(d) Fire someone from a job c. to throw aside violently d. to swing
Page No. 107
1504. Stick by b. to caution someone
a. to criticise closely b. stand by someone c. to be stern d. to insult someone
c. to paste d. to pass by 1513. A swan song
1505. Wink at a. melodious song
a. to tease somebody b. to like someone b. disharmonious display
c. to pretend not to see d. to stare at c. Utterance/statement made just before death
or retirement
1506. To be on the wane
d. concocted tale
a. to complain
1514. A white elephant
b. to be sick
a. precious thing b. uncommon event
c. to be on boat d. to be diminishing
c. unprofitable possession
1507. To give a person the cold shoulder
d. a rare phenomenon
a. to offer someone ice-cream b. to be humble
1515. Knit one’s brows
c. to threaten d. to treat coldly
a. to disappoint someone b. to frown
1508. To get one’s back up
c. to have a headache d. to express
a. to become irritated b. to sit straight
discontentment
c. to act proud d. to give support
1516. To plough the sands
1509. To feather one’s nest
a. to be extremely accomplished
a. to build one’s house
b. to be resourceful
b. to enrich oneself when opportunity knocks
c. to be dejected
c. to harbor ill-feelings
d. to busy oneself in an unprofitable proposition
d. to acquire something in abundance
1517. To rip up old sores
1510. To strike oil
a. to destroy something
a. to have found an oil well
b. to act cruelly
b. to have lucky success
c. to reopen a quarrel
c. to have a close escape d. to be unsuccessful
d. to inflict pain on someone
1511. To talk shop
1518. To rate soundly
a. to talk a lot
a. to censure strongly
b. to use phrases peculiar to one’s employment
b. to acquire heavy profits
c. to like to shop d. to lie
c. to be at peace
1512. To draw a line
d. to assure somebody
a. to fix a limit

Page No. 108

1519. To run in the same groove c. to be firm about something
a. to have a pleasant time d. to do something stupid
b. to run away from somebody 1526. To hit below the belt
c. to be in the same situation 1. To hit someone boldly
d. to advance in harmony 2. To attack after warning
1520. To be no chicken 3. To hit off the mark
a. to be brave 4. To attack in an unfair manner
b. to be honest 1527. To meet one’s Waterloo
c. to be no longer young 1. To make a foolish choice
d. to be childish 2. To experience defeat
1521. To take to one’s bed 3. To meet a friend 4. To win a match
a. to be very attached to one’s belongings 1528. To have an axe to grind
b. to lie in bed due to illness 1. To have an indomitable task to accomplish
c. to fight with one’s husband 2. To have access to top levels of authority
d. to agree with someone 3. To have adequate means of subsistence
1522. To stand on ceremony 4. To have a selfish motive in doing something
a. to celebrate an occasion in a grand way 1529. Keep your head
b. to be extravagant 1. Be furious 2. Remain calm
c. to get married 3. Protect yourself 4. Respect yourself
d. to treat with cold rigid civility 1530. To turn the corner
1523. To be at sixes and sevens 1. To go back to the past
a. to be undecided b. to be a great success 2. To change one’s goal
c. to be certain d. to give away generously 3. To pass the critical stage
1524. To break the ice 4. To wait for an opportunity
a. a strong man 1531. To rise like a phoenix
b. to start a quarrel 1. To behave like a royal
c. to break the awkward silence 2. To set on fire
d. to become violent 3. To emerge with a new life 4. To be modest
1525. Put one’s foot down 1532. A square deal
a. to demand 1. An advantageous deal 2. A false claim
b. to take rest 3. A fair and honest deal 4. An unfruitful plan

Page No. 109

1533. Against one’s grain 3. not able to understand anything
1. Against one’s nature 2. Against the society 4. very boring and not at all fun
3. Against the law 4. Against one’s family 1541. Not mince words
1534. To read between the lines 1. Not to be honest
1. To criticise the writer’s style 2. Not to come directly to the point
2. To interrupt someone while reading 3. To speak in a direct way
3. To read each line carefully 4. To speak in a garbled way
4. To understand the implied meaning 1542. Read between the lines
1535. Miss the boat 1. Make a great effort to read
1. To lose an opportunity 2. Read each and every word
2. To settle down at a place 3. Discern the hidden meaning in the text
3. To do something carefully 4. Skip pages and read fast
4. To reach the end 1543. Wear your heart on your sleeve
1536. Full of hot air 1. To keep a secret
1. Talking nonsense 2. Talking proudly 2. To show your true emotions
3. Being hot tempered 4. Being too proud 3. To look attractive
1537. To take stock of 4. To love someone secretly
1. To assess 2. To discuss 1544. On cloud nine
3. To assemble 4. To modify 1. Extremely happy and excited
1538. Don’t put all your eggs in the same basket 2. Crazy and foolish 3. Knowledgeable and wise
1. Don’t share your wealth with others 4. Very far away from home
2. Don’t buy too many things at one time 1545. Feet of Clay
3. Don’t invest in loss making propositions a. Very soft feet
4. Don’t concentrate all your resources in one b. Difficulty in running
place c. Slow in actions
1539. On tenterhooks d. Hidden faults
1. Alert and enthusiastic 2. Anxious and tense 1546. Be out for the count
3. Happy and joyous 4. Neutral and
(a) Sleeping deeply
undecided
(b) Counting money carefully
1540. Not make head or tail
(c) To count each step one takes
1. very unusual and strange
(d) To be very happy
2. not find something interesting

Page No. 110

1547. Go by the book (a) Taking care of eggs to save the lives of young
chicks
(a) To buy a book of one's choice
(b) Intending to grow very fast
(b) To understand the book
(c) Making best bets in one's trade
(c) To follow someone who reads books
(d) To be careful in speech and actions
(d) To follow rules exactly
1554. A foregone conclusion
1548. Double-talk
(a) A generous gift (b) A confusing idea
(a) Interfering while someone is talking
(c) An obvious speculation
(b) Speaking with double meaning
(d) An inevitable result
(c) Speaking to confuse people and avoid truth
1555. Hole and corner
(d) Talking repeatedly and annoying people
A. strict B. servile
1549. At somebody's elbow
C. secret D. suspicious
(a) To be dominated by someone
1556. Wet behind the ears
(b) To be near someone in order to help
A. Lacking experience B. Fearful
(c) To be kept in house
C. Obedient D. Honest
(d) To make people important
1557. A wet blanket
1550. Everyone and his brother
1. A person who spoils other people's fun
(a) An individual and all his relatives
2. A person who is enthusiastic
(b) To think about universal brotherhood
3. An unwelcome guest
(c) A large number of people
4. An unpleasant experience
(d) To treat people as relatives
1558. Losing ground
1551. Feel the pinch
1. Becoming deeply engraved
(a) Being hurt and wounded by someone
2. Becoming less acceptable
(b) To remain silent on injustice
3. Acquiring power
(c) Having financial problems all of a sudden
4. Continuing as before
(d) Feeling disappointment
1559. Shed light on
1552. The feathers fly
1. To reduce weight
(a) To add more success to one's career
2. To explain a situation
(b) To fight and argue a lot
3. To disconnect electricity
(c) To lead a carefree life
4. To light a fire
(d) To get into a romantic relationship
1553. Treading on eggshells

Page No. 111

1560. Hit a brick wall 1. To be humiliated and bullied by a superior at
work
1. Use unfair tactics
2. To have a strong group of people supporting
2. Hit someone with a brick
you
3. Go to sleep
3. To be in a desperate situation with very few
4. Encounter an obstacle options
1561. Lock horns 4. To be able to successfully tackle a difficult
1. Fight with someone 2. Defeat someone task

3. Find a mate 4. Make a team 1567. Pain in the neck

1562. Be in someone’s shoes 1. To relieve someone from a painful condition

1. put on someone’s shoes 2. To be unable to deal with someone stronger

2. face the same situation as another person 3. Someone or something that is very annoying

3. buy the same brand of shoes as another 4. To suffer pain because of overexertion of neck
person muscles

4. accept someone’s shoes as a present 1568. Swim with the tide

1563. Bottom line 1. Accept your fault

1. The most important fact 2. A hidden agenda 2. Going for a swim during the high tide

3. An impossible task 3. Do something again and again

4. An awkward situation 4. Agree with the popular opinion

1564. Flex one’s muscles 1569. follow suit

1. show one’s muscular strength 1. do the same as others 2. try a costume

2. give or make a show of one’s strength 3. go after someone

3. beat someone physically with muscle strength 4. get on well with others

4. show that one has more muscles than another 1570. Come to blows

1565. On the back burner 1. Start fighting after a disagreement

1. To cook a special dish slowly by placing it on 2. Agree with someone

the back burner 3. Enjoy the cool breeze
2. To be unable to complete a task because of a 4. Not accept any responsibility
back problem
1571. lose count of
3. To temporarily not deal with some matter
1. forget the accurate total
because it is not urgent
2. something that happens rarely
4. To carry a heavy burden successfully and
without complaining 3. depend on others for help
1566. Have your back against the wall 4. waste a lot of money
Page No. 112
1572. see the light of day 2. Do something exactly right
1. come out of difficulties 3. Do something without having planned
beforehand
2. get up early in the morning
4. Do something pointless
3. be very happy 4. become publicly known
1579. Hit the sack
1573. A house of cards
1. Go to sleep 2. To harm someone
1. An insecure situation 2. A lavish lifestyle
3. Achieve something 4. Complete the task
3. A gambling casino
1580. Cissy promised to turn over a new leaf and
4. A dishonest livelihood
keep her room clean from now on.
1574. Loaves and fish
1. To accept immediately
1. To get someone drunk
2. To take a chance
2. Material interests
3. To start behaving in a better way
3. Main support
4. To tease someone
4. To act in a frenzied manner
1581. Break a leg
1575. Might and main
1. Bravery 2. Good luck
1. With all enthusiasm
3. Accident 4. Sudden attack
2. Nonsense or meaningless speech
1582. You need to be aware of argus-eyed people
3. To keep quiet, To say nothing in the organisation.
4. Approximately, almost, somewhat, to a certain 1. Angry 2. Kind
Degree 3. Content 4. Vigilant
1576. Separate the wheat from the chaff 1583. The new production targets have stirred up
1. Cooking food during famine a hornet's nest.

2. To separate the valuable from the worthless 1. To confess without reserve

3. Farming barren lands with little water 2. To preserve one’s energy

4. Harvesting crops and cooking them 3. To gain prominence

1577. To be in the driving seat 4. To raise controversy

1. To allow other people to go past yourself 1584. To win laurels

2. To be in charge or control of a situation 1. To win an easy battle

3. To be able to drive a vehicle 2. To achieve honours and glory

4. To avoid speaking up on something 3. To be fooled by others

1578. Hit the nail on the head 4. To secure a well-paying job

1. Take advantage of a good situation

Page No. 113

1585. He burnt his fingers interfering in others’ 3. To eat something unhealthy because of its
problems. taste
1. caught his fingers in fire 4. To buy ammunition because of upcoming
danger
2. was happy
1591. By the skin of your teeth
3. got in good relations with
1. To do difficult tasks
4. got into trouble
2. To get worried easily
1586. To keep a good table
3. Chewing food improperly
1. To keep good company
4. To just barely get by or make it
2. To have a luxurious home
1592. Arunima is the apple of her mother’s eye.
3. To keep one’s home organised
1. Her mother’s enemy
4. To offer sumptuous food to one’s guests
2. Annoying to her mother
1587. Grandpa often likes to sit in the balcony and
chew the fat with me. 3. A person of whom her mother is extremely
fond and proud
1. Criticise people
4. Spiteful person
2. Gossip and make small talk
1593. They got into hot water when their tricks
3. Chew meat 4. Play a game
were revealed by their neighbour.
1588. Break the ice
1. Landed in trouble
1. To talk about something that is considered
2. Made fun of
taboo
3. Were thoroughly familiar with
2. To discuss something worthless
4. Took the help of
3. To begin a conversation to relieve the tension
in an uncomfortable situation 1594. At the eleventh hour
4. To reveal a secret 1. In the evening 2. At the last moment
1589. Two peas in a pod 3. At night 4. In the morning
1. Treat people fairly 1595. Take away your breath
2. Look very similar in appearance or character 1. Astonishing 2. Falling in love
3. Talk about a problem 3. Killing 4. Exhausting
4. Make a bad situation worse 1596. By leaps and bounds
1590. Bite the bullet 1. Slowly 2. Abruptly
1. To feel powerless because of fatigue 3. Stealthily 4. Rapidly
2. To get something over with because it is 1597. Blow hot and cold
inevitable 1. Critiquing 2. Vacillating
3. Tormenting 4. Rebuking
Page No. 114
1598. Chicken hearted 2. Doing something poorly in order to save time
or money
1. Someone who is hypocritical
3. Stitching clothes with a unique design
2. Someone who is brave and courageous
4. Cutting the edges to make it small and round
3. Someone who cannot be won over
1605. Call it a day
4. Someone who lacks courage and is easily
frightened 1. Call it as a bad day
1599. The young athletes bore the palm in almost 2. Stop thinking in daytime
all the events. 3. Call it as a good and productive day
1. Fixed 4. Stop working on something
2. Lost 1606. I had a close shave this morning – my car
3. Won was hit badly by a bull.
4. Compromised 1. In a position where one might receive severe
criticism
1600. Break fresh/new ground
2. To be carrying a wild look
1. To build a new house
3. To request someone to stay calm and not get
2. To do something that was not done before
annoyed
3. To dig a well
4. A narrow escape
4. To talk to stranger
1607. Blue blood is not necessarily a guarantee of
1601. She's got a charley horse in her leg. one’s public decorum.
1. Inertness 2. Assist someone 1. A person belonging to a middle-class family
3. Cramp 4. Being very mobile 2. A person belonging to an honest family
1602. Go through fire and water 3. A person belonging to a poor family
1. To fail in all types of hardships 4. A person belonging to a high family
2. To pass through life 1608. To make matters worse
3. To pass through all types of hardships 1. No matter can become worse
4. To pass through all types of luxury 2. Sometimes situation can become worse
1603. He is the most successful businessman. 3. Make the situation worse
One of his traits is to take risk
4. Matters can be worse
1. Throw caution to the wind
1609. Heart and soul
2. Talk through his hat
1. With complete honesty
3. Fill somebody’s shoes 4. Tighten his belt
2. Front to front
1604. Cutting corners
3. With all the effort you can put
1. Investing in MNCs to get better returns and
4. Feeling sympathy for someone
exchange
Page No. 115
1610. With two toddlers to handle and no house 1616. Beside oneself
help at her disposal, Shilpa can never put her 1. Almost out of one’s senses
house in apple-pie order.
2. In the secret
1. Completely messy
3. Under all conditions
2. Smell-proof
4. To stand for one’s own fault
3. Completely arranged
1617. It was a very important meeting, but I stayed
4. Ready for guests cool as ice because I knew our product was the
1611. Be on the breadline best.
1. Having plenty of money 1. cool as a cake
2. Find a successful way of making money 2. cool as a cucumber
3. Earn a lot of money very easily 3. cool as a carrot
4. Be very poor 4. cool as a cabbage
1612. Crying wolf 1618. To give someone the cold shoulder
1. To be in pain by getting hit by something 1. To ignore someone
2. To frighten someone in your comfort zone 2. To carry the burden of everyone
3. To ask for help when you don’t need it 3. To be carried on someone’s back
4. To cry over little things that don’t matter 4. To listen to someone with empathy
1613. Belly laugh 1619. True colours
1. Mocking someone 1. Black and white 2. Light colours
2. Laughing with inhibition 3. Real character 4. Bright colours
3. A loud and unrestrained laugh 1620. He burnt his fingers by getting into others’
problems.
4. To be subjected to mockery and ridicule
1. To get rid off 2. To get rewarded
1614. When grandmother found her
granddaughter’s collection like her numismatist 3. To get into trouble 4. To burn ones
daughter’s, she knew her granddaughter is a fingers
chip off the old block. 1621. It is his first interview, so he has a nervous
1. Changed feeling.
2. A person who is similar in behaviour or 1. Butterflies in his stomach
actions to his/her parents 2. A slap on the wrist
3. Damaged 4. Getting obsessed 3. Tug at his heartstrings
1615. A mare’s nest 4. Icing on the cake
1. Deep crisis 2. Simple and interesting work
3. Complicated situation 4. Area of law

Page No. 116

1622. Salt of the earth 3. Calm 4. Busy
1. Do anything possible 1629. Some colleagues at a workplace are really
hard nuts to crack.
2. A very good and honest person
1. Hardcore traditions in a family
3. Discovered after a lot of searching
2. An inflexible person who is hard to convince
4. Choose one at random
3. Someone showing extra concern over little
1623. Rameshwar has a vision for capturing
things
beautiful pictures of nature.
4. An easy-goer who can be easily convinced
1. An eagle eye 2. A high horse
1630. He was beaming from ear to ear.
3. Cry wolf 4. A cat nap
1. Playing 2. Smiling broadly
1624. The mother-in-law deliberately rained on
the new bride’s parade when she asked her to 3. Criticising bitterly 4. Working
change the dress of her choice. 1631. At sea
1. Force traditions upon someone 1. To overcome
2. Make someone tearful out of viciousness 2. Obsolete
3. To spoil a moment 3. At a loss or perplexed
4. Save one from embarrassment 4. To blunder
1625. At the drop of a dime 1632. Select the sentence that uses the idiom
1. A way of saying that you are happy to see correctly.
someone 1. Flowers bloom under the weather.
2. Something that is not popular 2. Trees shed their leaves under the weather.
3. Something that can happen very fast without 3. She missed the exam as she felt under the
hesitation
weather.
4. Extremely easy to understand 4. Reena was walking on the lawn under the
1626. All ears weather.
1. To scold someone bitterly 1633. You get a good and comprehensive idea of
the town from the clock tower situated in the
2. To listening attentively
centre of the town.
3. To listen to everyone 4. To not be voca
1. blind date
1627. To pull someone’s leg
2. body and soul
1. To talk something bad about someone
3. bird’s eye view
2. To talk something good about someone
4. blind alley
3. To joke with someone 4. To push a person
1628. Snowed under
1. Lazy 2. Silent
Page No. 117
1634. Even when the child accused the relative of 1640. Our hearts go out to the families of the
inappropriate behaviour, the parents continued victims of this terrible tragedy.
to play perfect hosts at the party instead of 1. To receive or express praise for a job well
addressing the elephant in the room. done
1. Ignoring someone who seeks attention through 2. To feel sympathy for someone when they are
false stories distressed
2. Punishing someone for inappropriate 3. Well wishes for a deceased person
behaviour
4. To wish for things does not yield to anything
3. Revealing the secrets
1641. Toffee-nosed
4. A big problem everyone is ignoring or afraid to
talk about 1. A person who thinks he is of a high social class
and looks down on people of lower class
1635. To stand one's ground
2. A solid, respectable and respected member of
1. To maintain one’s position society
2. To fight for the same position 3. Continue to live at the same social standard
3. To stand up 4. To stand in one’s we have lived at, even though we have money
own land problems
1636. A slap on the wrist 4. A person who seems impolite/of low education
at first, but who is usually of good character
1. Punishment to an innocent.
1642. He is in high spirits today.
2. Suggest something secretly.
1. Annoying 2. Disturbed
3. A very mild punishment.
3. Drunk 4. Cheerful
4. Beating someone too much on the wrist.
1643. The evidence put forward could not confirm
1637. A lot on one’s plate
his guilt.
1. To eat a lot 2. A lot to do
1. Bring up
3. To have a serious ailment
2. Break down
4. To serve all dishes on one plate
3. Bear up
1638. To be on thin ice
4. Blow off
1. To be in faulty situation
1644. In the movie ‘Encanto’, the family thought
2. To be in marginalised situation Bruno was a black sheep.
3. To be in a risky situation 1. Disgrace for the family
4. To be in limited scope 2. Unrelated to the family
1639. A lame excuse 3. Danger to the family
1. No excuse 2. Explanation 4. Unloved by the family
3. Weak excuse 4. Strong excuse

Page No. 118

1645. The family's meeting on property dispute 4. Probably possible, but it will be difficult
begins today and I'm just sitting down with a cup 1651. Once in a blue moon
of coffee, enjoying ___________.
1. Occasionally 2. Continuously
1. the better of
3. Rarely 4. Often
2. the corridors of power
1652. Hand and glove
3. the calm before the storm
1. Very intimate terms 2. Under all conditions
4. the bottom line
3. Decided 4. Oppressive
1646. Sometimes doing something that makes it
impossible to return to the previous situation 1653. The dacoit was shot from up close by the
later strengthens you. police officer.

1. Painting the town red 1. Milksop 2. Smell a rat

2. Knocking your socks off 3. Point blank 4. Bullet proof

3. Burning your bridges 4. A red-letter day 1654. The accident site had become a bear
garden by afternoon.
1647. Wild goose chase
1. A place of noise and disturbance
1. Doing something crazy
2. A peaceful place
2. Working very hard for something
3. A soothing environment 4. Unclean and dirty
3. To betray someone 4. Futile search
1655. Get on like a house on fire
1648. Saira is unable to sustain friendships
because she always has too many axes to grind. 1. Like someone immediately

1. To work for others 2. Get on extremely well with someone

2. To have one’s own interests to serve 3. Feel a lot of affection for one particular
person, often without knowing why
3. To use weapons carefully
4. Do something good for someone you have
4. To believe in selflessness done something bad to in the past
1649. Up in the air 1656. Against the clock
1. Something that is tossed up in the air 1. Running faster with a clock in hand
2. Something that is certain and decided 2. In a great hurry, as fast as possible
3. Something that is unknown entirely 3. Running faster without a clock
4. Something that is invisible and unattainable 4. Race with others to win
1650. By hook or by crook
1657. Get a second wind
1. Using a lot of energy and effort to do 1. To retell the same story
something
2. To have renewed energy
2. Using whatever methods are necessary
3. To commit the same mistake
3. Making more of an effort
4. To get a second chance
Page No. 119
1658. The detective suspected Shyam because of 2. A person with good knowledge of weather
his odd behaviour while investing in the scam. 3. A helpful person
1. To hang fire 2. To bite the dust 4. A person not reliable in difficult time
3. A dog in the manger 4. To smell a rat 1666. To throw caution to the wind
1659. So far so good 1. To do something carefully
1. Not impressed with how things are 2. To do something with caution
2. Things are going well so far
3. To do something without worrying about the
3. No improvement in the work being done risk
4. Good things can go far away 4. To do something after thinking about the result
1660. Hang in there 1667. Be hard hit
1. To remain unresolved 1. An extreme struggle
2. To give up completely 2. To speak something unpleasant
3. To spend time with people 3. Severely affected by something unpleasant
4. To persist in a difficult situation 4. To hit someone hard
1661. Left, right and centre 1668. He is a disgrace to his family.
1. To have been happening for a long time and 1. A fish out of water 2. A white elephant
there is a lot of activity 3. A lone wolf 4. A black sheep
2. Happening in a lot of places or to a lot of 1669. It is wise to sit on the fence and not become
people a party to another World War.
3. Start well 1. A person's lack of decisiveness, neutrality or
4. The news went from one person to the next hesitance to choose between two sides in an
argument or a competition
1662. Spill the beans
2. Overtaking the thing of interest that the other
1. Reveal a plan 2. Reveal a crime
parties are fighting for while they are fighting
3. Reveal a secret 4. Reveal a mystery
3. Defending the no man’s land
1663. Nine times out of ten, he tells lies.
4. Become a peacemaker between two fighting
1. All the time 2. Hardly or competing parties
3. In most cases 4. Sometimes 1670. In a nutshell
1664. To beat a retreat 1. Briefly
1. To make a situation 2. To leave a situation 2. Constructively
3. To solve a situation 4. To face a situation 3. Scrupulously
1665. A wise man remains aware of fair-weather 4. Knotty
friends.
1. A person from an area of pleasant weather
Page No. 120
1671. Go round in circles 1677. Wet blanket
1. Be forced to explain your actions and probably 1. One who acts stupidly
be punished 2. One who spoils other people’s fun
2. Make no progress in an argument or 3. One who is frequently ill
discussion
4. One who cannot be trusted
3. Become very confused when you are trying to
explain something 1678. Sometimes I just have to resort to the
carrot and stick approach with my children.
4. Believe something good about someone even
though you could believe either good or bad 1. Mixture of rewards and punishments

1672. I took a quick trip to my cousin’s house 2. Waste one's efforts by pursuing the wrong
before going on vacation to Africa. thing or path

1. Break the journey 2. Paid a flying visit 3. Practically identical in appearance

3. Lived out of a suitcase 4. Float one’s boat 4. To be optimistic or enthusiastic

1673. In seventh heaven 1679. At the eleventh hour

1. Extremely sad 1. Time for debate 2. Very late in the evening

2. Seven-day birthday ceremony 3. A state of confusion

3. In the presence of God 4. Extremely happy 4. Just before the deadline

1674. As good as gold 1680. Hit the books

1. A person who is obedient and well-behaved 1. To feel sorry about a mistake

2. A person who loves gold 2. To study very hard

3. A person who is good like gold but not better 3. Become very confused

4. A golden person 4. To have a very long list

1675. To judge a book by its cover 1681. Charley horse

1. To strictly follow the rules 1. Very fast 2. Lucky

2. To be good at evaluating people 3. Cunning 4. Cramp

3. To evaluate people’s worth by their outward 1682. To put someone's back up

appearance 1. To help someone 2. To irritate someone
4. To understand a difficult situation 3. To flatter someone 4. To deceive someone
1676. Hold your horses 1683. Be like chalk and cheese
1. To keep the horse chain intact 1. Be absolutely rich 2. Be absolutely deceptive
2. Holding and keeping things by yourself 3. Be absolutely different
3. Give time to others for some rest 4. Be absolutely lonely
4. To tell someone to stop and consider carefully

Page No. 121

1684. Have a long face 4. Back to the drawing board
1. Look unhappy or disappointed 1692. He is known for talking too frankly.
2. Portray an ugly expression 1. Snug as a bug in a rug
3. Look very confident 2. Call a spade a spade
4. Look extremely happy 3. Go the extra mile 4. Lose one’s marbles
1685. Get away 1693. Jump the gun
1. To visit 2. To leave 1. Start something too soon or act hastily
3. To equalize 4. To fall off 2. There is always a cost to do something
1686. Be at a loose end 3. Watch a person carefully
1. Defining moment 2. On a turning point 4. Intentionally raise a false alarm
3. In much trouble 4. To have nothing to do 1694. The new music system is too expensive for
1687. Between Scylla and Charybdis us to buy.
1. Hit the books 2. Costs an arm and a leg
1. Between two possibilities
3. At sea 4. Cut to the chase
2. Between two dangers
1695. Reginald betrayed his closest friend. It was
3. Between two favours
big shock for all.
4. Between two charms
1. A black sheep
1688. Elbow grease
2. Every cloud has a silver lining
1. Relational difference
3. Stab someone in the back
2. Hard physical efforts
4. Looking to your laurels
3. Mental disturbance
1696. Pocket an insult
4. Psychological pressure
1. Insult someone strongly
1689. The minister is a little hard of hearing.
2. Rebel against insult
1. callous 2. inaccessible
3. Tolerate insult without protest
3. partially deaf 4. insensitive
4. Endure insult and protest
1690. The memory of all that blood was enough to
make my flesh crawl. 1697. Upset the apple-cart

1. frightened me 2. worried me 1. To be offended

3. drew my attention 4. confused me 2. Consider unsatisfactory

1691. The attitude of the culprit made the judge 3. Withdraw

extemely angry. 4. Spoil careful plans
1. Play by the ear 2. Throw caution to the wind
3. Make one’s blood boil

Page No. 122

1698. The coach was trying to twist the player’s 3. Personally 4. Alter the face
arm by asking him to practice throughout the 1705. The team members seem to be running
day.
around in circles.
1. To console the weak
1. To be extremely successful
2. To refrain from resting
2. Hardly any time to breathe
3. To train someone in warfare
3. To be very active but with few results
4. To try to force someone to do something
4. Very dynamic and hardworking
1699. Cast aside
1706. Hale and hearty
1. To display 2. To bear with
1. Strong and healthy 2. Angry but happy
3. To blow up 4. To reject
3. Weak and ill 4. Clumsy and calm
1700. In your birthday suit
1707. His mentor understood the deep anguish
1. A suit which is designed for only birthday
the student was going through without him being
functions
informed about it.
2. Birthday celebrations
1. Read between the lines 2. Break a leg
3. Not wearing any clothes
3. Down for the count 4. In the fast lane
4. A suit which covers one’s entire body
1708. Jump the gun
1701. The movers and shakers
1. To do something stupid
1. Transportation company
2. To waste your money
2. Labourers
3. To do something too soon
3. People who have a lot of power and influence
4. To defeat an opponent
4. Travelling agency
1709. I was like a fish out of water in the new
1702. Get one’s dander up firm.
1. Rush into someone 1. Very adventurous
2. To glare venomously 2. Being uncomfortable and restless
3. Lose one’s temper 3. Always comfortable 4. Nosy yet firm
4. get into a difficult situation 1710. Look, the devil is beating his wife. Do you
1703. In queer street think we'll see a rainbow?

1. In prison 2. Lost your way 1. One who presents a counter argument

3. In debt 4. Among scoundrels 2. If you have nothing to do, you are likely to do
some mischief
1704. Face up to
3. The sun is shining while it rains
1. Look into face
4. When someone comes in unexpectedly while
2. To accept a difficult situation being talked about

Page No. 123

1711. A grey area 1717. Child’s play
1. An unspoken truth 1. Something that is very easy to do
2. An unclear situation 2. Something children have made by themselves
3. A special part of the brain 3. Something for a child to play with
4. An unusual spot 4. Something that everybody knows
1712. To be in the dark 1718. A bolt from the blue
1. to not know something others are aware of 1. something causing a head injury
2. to be afraid of darkness and refuse to go out at 2. something that happens suddenly
night 3. something that is hotly debated
3. to learn to face dark places without fear 4. a strange dream that wakes one up suddenly
4. to always be in a bad mood about darkness 1719. Cost an arm and a leg
1713. To make both ends meet 1. Be extremely expensive
1. To have just enough money to live 2. Be rather cheap
2. To try to do two different things at the same
3. Be easily available
time
4. Be worthy of the cost
3. To try to bring two parties together
1720. Go back to the drawing board
4. To try to solve a problem between friends
1. start planning again because earlier plans
1714. To drag one’s feet failed
1. To walk unsteadily 2. look back at your achievements and learn from
2. To walk with a limp them
3. To delay taking a decision 3. withdraw support to someone whom you
always supported
4. To pull someone’s legs
4. get started on a new job as the old one wasn’t
1715. A sea change
good
1. Complete transformation
1721. Provide a blueprint
2. Going on a trip abroad
1. Submit a printed application for a blue-collared
3. Getting transferred overseas job
4. Health-related vacation 2. Give a detailed plan or scheme
1716. Get One’s Ducks in a Row 3. Have a building plan printed in blue
1. Have everything properly organized 4. Propose a plan of a secret meeting
2. Have nothing properly organized, though ready
3. Have everything improperly disorganized
4. Have everything messily arranged

Page No. 124

1722. Be glad to see the back of 1728. To leave no stone unturned
1. Be relieved at another’s failure 1. To became accustomed to routine things
2. Be happy at another’s success 2. To try everything possible to solve a problem
3. Be happy when a person leaves 3. To turn everything upside down
4. Be happy to see someone again 4. To become furious with somebody
1723. By the skin of one’s teeth 1729. To run around like a headless chicken
1. With the help of someone 1. To do many things in a disorganised manner
2. By a very big margin 2. To be lazy and unwilling to work
3. Without anyone’s help 3. To do things methodically one by one
4. By a very narrow margin 4. To be unable to catch escaping chicken
1724. Read between the lines 1730. Wash your dirty linen in public
1. read loudly each and every word given in the 1. Fight with everyone unnecessarily
sentence 2. Complain about everything
2. read very slowly enjoying each line
3. Hangclothes outside
3. read carefully each and every word written 4. Discuss private matters in front of others
4. understand what is implied but not stated 1731. To be all ears
directly
1. To be ready and eager to listen
1725. A good turn
2. To have extra-large ears
1. A lucky chance
3. To be inquisitive and curious
2. A great opportunity
4. To be impatient about something
3. A helpful act
1732. To put one’s foot in one’s mouth
4. A pleasant experience
1. To deliberately provoke someone
1726. In hot water
2. To be disorderly and stupid
1. In trouble
3. To accidentally embarrass or upset someone
2. In suspense
4. To gather all of one’s resources
3. In advantage
1733. Living in a fool’s paradise
4. In shower
1. To be fooled by someone
1727. Make big time
2. To live in a world of imagination
1. Spend more than one earns
3. To believe wrongly that your situation is good
2. Attain fame and success
4. To live in luxuriously after fooling someone
3. Earn more than needed
4. Reach earlier than expected

Page No. 125

1734. Off one’s rocker 1740. The announcement of the new tourism
policy of the government has made some people
1. No manners
excited or interested.
2. When someone does not want to make a
1. Pull out all the stops
decision
2. Run around in circles
3. Keep something away
3. Quicken the pulse 4. Reach for the moon
4. Crazy, demented or out of one’s mind
1741. When the war breaks out, all the war
1735. Greener pastures
mongering social media activists become yellow
a) Unfavourable prospect bellies.
b) Covered with healthy plants or grass 1. Zealots 2. Cowards
c) Rural areas 3. Sceptics 4. Upset stomachs
d) A better or promising situation 1742. A rolling stone gathers no moss
1736. A skeleton in the cupboard 1. A person who settles for a short time and runs
1. A popular fact which is not hidden from place to place, enjoying his freedom

2. A popular fact to be kept secret 2. A person who does not settle anywhere for a
short time, and is always searching for gold
3. An embarrassing fact not to be kept secret
3. A person who settles for a long time and leads
4. An embarrassing fact to be kept secret
a boring and useless life
1737. Fly into a passion
4. A person who does not settle in one place for
1. To be aggressive at times a long time, does not gain wealth, name or fame
2. To become aggressive often 1743. The game is now in full swing.
3. To become angry suddenly 1. very passive 2. very uninteresting
4. To be always angry 3. playing on the swings 4. very active
1738. Cut a poor figure 1744. Cudgel one’s brain
1. In a poor state 1. Thinking about a debate
2. To put a good impression 2. To think hard
3. To put a bad impression 4. Bad physical form 3. Not to think 4. To overthink
1739. “Just add a bit of cheese to your pasta and 1745. I bought some extra copies from the
Bob’s your uncle!” Reena suggested to me over stationery shop. These may come in handy during
dinner last night. exams.
1. It becomes easily and quickly achievable 1. Be useful
2. It changes the appearance 2. Cause trouble
3. It ruins everything 3. Be sold
4. It changes nothing 4. Bring luck

Page No. 126

1746. Play it by ear 1753. In the nick of time
1. To do something without special preparation A. Doing nothing
2. To plan 3. To listen carefully B. Just in Time
4. To improve C. Reach before time
1747. Someone’s heart is in the right place D. To reach after the job done
1. Suddenly feel so excited or frightened that your 1754. Hard on the eyes
heart beats faster
A. To be infected
2. Change your opinion or the way you feel B. To be a burden
3. Share secret worries with someone else C. Unattractive; ugly
4. Someone is good even if they sometimes D. To be troublesome
behave in a wrong manner
1755. The meat and potatoes
1748. Down the tubes
A. Most fundamental aspects of something
1. Minting money 2. Failing completely
B. Things that are unimportant
3. Being informal 4. Going to swim
C. Things that are contradictory
1749. Lose your marbles
D. Two things that coexist
1. To go insane 2. To handle stress
1756. Lost the plot
3. To lower down anger 4. To be patient
A. To refuse to obey
1750. I must tell you that it all went pear-shaped
after you left the meeting in the middle. B. To be hilarious

1. Went terribly wrong C. Act in a disorganized manner

2. Became very entertaining D. To lose all money

3. Became tragic 4. Turned out fine 1757. The eternal checkout

1751. Every trick in the book A. Death

A. Be optimistic B. Enmity

B. Nothing Happening C. Discipline

C. Every possible way D. Permission

D. Be pessimistic 1758. Rein in

1752. On a roll A. Flush with huge numbers

A. Running fast B. Limit or control something

B. To have trust in someone C. Provide for

C. In the midst of successes D. Have an expertise in

D. To meet a tragedy

Page No. 127

1759. Glass ceiling 3. Functionally necessary but of small
significance
A. A point where one has always aspired to
reach 4. To be a liability
B. A point after which you cannot go any further, 1765. Milk and water
usually in improving your position at work 1. Weak ideas
C. A place that was transparent and open for all 2. Remaining goods
participants
3. Small items
D. A hard place to be where everything is brittle
4. Essential goods
1760. Better late than never
1766. A dim view of
1. Better to equip yourselves to be quick
1. view
2. Always be on time
2. disapprove of
3. Better to arrive late than not to come at all
3. approve of
4. Timely and efficient
4. see off
1761. Hang in there
1767. God’s ape
1. Give up just in time
1. Born fool
2. Don't give up
2. Brave man
3. Don’t be resilient
3. God’s messenger
4. Always go for the gold
4. Timid person
1762. When it rains, it pours
1768. Mealy mouthed
1. Extremely poor weather
A. a flatterer
2. Problems seem to happen together
B. afraid to speak frankly
3. Problems are part of life
C. a literary person
4. Both good and bad news conveyed at the same
time D. soft spoken

1763. Between Scylla and Charybdis 1769. Full of red herrings

1. Choice between two unavoidable alternatives A. full of foolish ideals

2. Choice between two pleasant alternatives B. full of murders

3. Choice between two unpleasant alternatives C. full of things to distract attention

4. Choice between two avoidable alternatives D. handled in high fashion

1764. A cog in the machine 1770. Bottom line

1. To shirk from work 1. A hidden agenda 2. An awkward situation

2. Holding an important job title 3. The most important fact

4. An impossible task
Page No. 128
1771. In line with 3. Defeat someone
1. In social service 2. In a queue 4. Make a team
3. In opposition 4. In agreement 1778. Beating / Banging the drum
1772. Full of hot air 1. To compel
1. Energetic 2. Hot-headed 2. To criticize
3. Talking nonsense 4. Nervous 3. To voice one’s support
1773. On the back burner 4. To be aggressive
1. To cook a special dish slowly by placing it on 1779. To run like clockwork
the back burner A. To go smoothly B. To go promptly
2. To temporarily not deal with some matter C. To go carefully D. To go automatically
because it is not urgent
1780. All in one piece
3. To carry a heavy burden successfully and
without complaining A. Early

4. To be unable to complete a task because of a B. The whole day

back problem C. Without damage
1774. Follow suit D. Suddenly
1. try a costume 1781. Great oaks grow from small acorns
2. do the same as others A. Large successful operations can begin in a
3. get on well with others small way

4. go after someone B. Good reputation is better than bad appearance

1775. Swim with the tide C. Trying to obtain everything will often result in
gaining nothing
1. Agree with the popular opinion
D. Income can be lost if it is used carelessly
2. Accept your fault
1782. Appeal to Caesar
3. Do something again and again
1. An authority given to a foolish person
4. Going for a swim during the high tide
2. To expect good from a wrong person
1776. Come to blows
3. To live in a false reality
1. Agree with someone
4. Appeal to the highest possible authority
2. Start fighting after a disagreement
1783. Sitting shotgun
3. Enjoy the cool breeze
1. Someone who is cherished above all others
4. Not accept any responsibility
2. Someone who is left-handed
1777. Lock horns
3. Riding in the front passenger seat of a car
1. Find a mate
4. A scamp
2. Fight with someone
Page No. 129
1784. Turn tail 1. To be afraid
1. To change the path 2. To leave no remark
2. To change the outcome 3. An unpleasant scenario
3. To run away from difficulty 4. To fail to understand
4. To hit harder 1791. Slack off
1785. Rub a person up the wrong way 1. To understand a hidden meaning
1. Annoy or offend a person 2. To slow down
2. Defeat a person thoroughly in a game 3. To make most effort
3. Force a person to take a subordinate position 4. To be very rude
4. Meet an unwilling stranger 1792. Hit a brick wall
1786. Mumbo jumbo 1. Use unfair tactics
1. Rushed and short on time 2. Go to sleep
2. Destroy or ruin a plan 3. Encounter an obstacle
3. Nonsense or meaningless speech 4. Hit someone with a brick
4. Intentionally raise a false alarm 1793. Armed to the teeth
1787. That’s all she wrote 1. Fully armed, having many weapons
1. There is nothing more to be said 2. Different attacking techniques
2. One-sided story 3. Safeguard oneself in every possible way
3. An unreal and imaginary story 4. To have no weapon to fight
4. Limited information 1794. Apropos of nothing
1788. To crow over something 1. Any difficult situation or obstacle
1. To interfere in something 2. To be enraged
2. To regret 3. Almost everything and anything has been
included
3. To be sensitive over something
4. Having no relevance to any previous
4. To triumph over someone
discussion or situation
1789. A bull market
1795. Pedal to the metal
1. A fertile field
1. To enjoy yourself by going out.
2. A market where cattle is traded
2. To go full speed, especially while driving a
3. To boast vehicle.
4. Market where prices are rising 3. Avoid responsibility by giving it to someone
1790. To shake in one’s shoes else.
4. Very excessive
Page No. 130
1796. The whole ball of wax 1802. To breast the tape
1. Everything 1. To shut someone’s mouth
2. Sagacious 2. To create problems
3. Meagre 3. To bring joy
4. Complete disaster 4. To win a race
1797. Dead lock 1803. To jump out of one’s skin
1. To be anxious 1. To argue with someone
2. A state in which progress is impossible 2. To feel immense pain
3. To lose an important asset 3. To show one’s real side
4. To attract 4. To be extremely surprised
1798. Method to my madness 1804. All bark and no bite
1. Someone who is unpredictable and can cause 1. Someone who sticks to his words
damage if not kept in check. 2. Actions are stronger than mere words
2. To get someone drunk.
3. Not being able to understand anything
3. To state a fact so that there are no doubts or 4. Full of talk, but low on action
objections.
1805. A bite at the cherry
4. Strange or crazy actions that appear
meaningless but in the end are done for a good 1. A wrong move
reason. 2. Another attempt or opportunity to do
1799. Have people rolling in the aisles something

1. To use false promises to pull people on one’s 3. To have a leverage over someone
side 4. A dog bite
2. Make an audience laugh uncontrollably 1806. Burn your bridges
3. To have a dispute with someone 1. To have a fight
4. Willing to do something immediately 2. To disclose a secret
1800. In the flesh 3. To be puzzled
1. To be near death 2. To talk 4. To eliminate the possibility of return or retreat
3. In bodily form 4. To get a tattoo 1807. Crook someone’s goose
1801. Baker's Dozen 1. To hypnotise someones
A. Fifteen 2. Inviting misfortune
B. Twelve 3. To spoil other’s plan
C. Ten 4. To assist others
D. Thirteen
Page No. 131
1808. Save your breath 1. To help someone
1. To make an effort that will be futile 2. To become a nun
2. To hold one’s anger 3. To take a responsibility
3. To work hard 4. To show interest
4. To be resentful 1815. Neck and crop
1809. All roads lead to Rome 1. Totally and completely
A. Different routes to the same goal 2. In and out
B. The same community 3. To and for
C. A unique solution to a problem 4. Forward and backward
D. A common understanding 1816. To the manner born
1810. A beast of burden 1. To have high manners
1. A liability 2. To do something as though it is coming
naturally
2. An animal that carries luggage
3. To be sophisticated
3. A person who works hardly
4. To give a ride to someone
4. A violent man
1817. Be my guest
1811. Ten out of ten
1. Please do it
A. A favor
2. Stop, don't go ahead
B. A perfect score
3. Be with me
C. An achievement
4. Come with me
D. A delayed success
1818. To be ill at ease
1812. Run of the mill
1. to feel uncomfortable or worried in a situation
A. To run very quickly
2. to be very sick
B. With no special or interesting features
3. to stand with legs kept slightly wide
C. A foolish and hopeless search
4. to make a patient in a hospital feel
D. A quick and automatic response
comfortable
1813. New kid on the block
1819. Cast someone adrift
1. Nonsense or meaningless speech.
1. To leave someone without any support or
2. Savings set aside for future use. purpose
3. Don't hurt anyone that helps you. 2. To change plan suddenly
4. Someone new to the group or area. 3. Call someone repeatedly
1814. To take the veil 4. To blame someone for one’s mistakes

Page No. 132

1820. Buy a lemon A. A person who is blind
1. To buy something that is of much less value. B. A person with no emotional feelings
2. To lose foundation C. A situation where no progress is made
3. To work through the day and shop in the D. An area in your range of vision that you cannot
evening see properly
4. To give importance to little things 1827. Get down to brass tacks
1821. To miss the bus A. To become serious about something
1. Short lived glory B. Get fired from the job
2. To lose an opportunity C. Compromise, cooperation between people
3. Escape by a thin margin D. To be ready
4. A problem in a situation 1828. Break sweat
1822. To have a nodding acquaintance 1. To make a futile attempt
1. To have a great experience 2. To lie
2. To neglect all the parameters 3. To use a lot of energy or effort
3. Know somebody/something slightly 4. To be caught stealing
4. To have nothing in common 1829. A bed of nails
1823. Good grief A. A problematic or uncomfortable situation
1. An expression of surprise and frustration B. A quick and automatic response
2. To feel no pain C. A person with no moral ethics
3. Physically or mentally tough D. A fiercely contested fight or dispute
4. Hard working 1830. To have an itching palm
1824. To raise a few eyebrows A. To have no mercy
1. To pretend to be shocked B. To gain strength
2. To cause surprise or shock C. To have an urge to slap
3. To say something funny D. To be greedy for money
4. To mime and make faces 1831. One swallow does not make a summer
1825. The whys and wherefores A. The fact of failure or escape is not affected by
the narrowness of the margin
1. References
B. To come out of one trouble and get into a
2. Circumstances
worse
3. Requirements
C. A single fortunate event does not mean that
4. Reasons what follows will also be good.
1826. A blind spot D. The whole of everything
Page No. 133
1832. To meet one’s eyes C. jack of all trades, master of none
A. To look at someone directly while they are D. pound the pavement
looking at you 1838. To see the Light
B. To confess something A. To gain conscious
C. To make haste B. To misunderstand the situation
D. To meet someone regularly C. To be optimistic
1833. A blast from the past
D. Suddenly realize or understand something
A. A competition where the outcome is difficult to 1839. Far and wide
judge or predict
A. Equal opportunity to all
B. Punishment for the crime committed in the
past B. Present everywhere

C. Something powerfully nostalgic C. Divided into two equal parts

D. An unresolved argument D. Not frequent, unusual, rare

1834. In the groove 1840. Dead men’s shoes

A. To muse on in an aimless manner A. Making oneself available for all the tasks
being assigned
B. Starting to perform very well
B. A career where a lot of cheques are signed
C. Simplify the producers
C. Job that one takes over from somebody who
D. A widely debated issue has left unexpectedly or died
1835. To pull the trigger D. Acquiring the wealth of a dead man through
A. To make an exaggerated statement malpractices
B. To do unnecessary things 1841. To stretch one’s legs
C. To insult and disgrace the people A. To leave a place without permission
D. To commit a course of action B. To go for a party
1836. On the job C. To go for a walk after you have been sitting for
a long time
1. In the war
D. To measure one’s worth
2. Avoiding the work
1842. Drastic times call for drastic measures
3. Working at a particular job
A. When you are extremely desperate you need
4. On the contrary
to take extremely desperate actions
1837. Susie (has such strong resemblance to)
B. Don't rely on it until you sure of it
Kate Winslet that sometimes people would ask
her for her autograph. C. Something that ends at the last minute or last
few seconds
A. dead ringer
B. gone bananas
Page No. 134
D. Do not pull all your resources in one C. Large margin
possibility D. To count resources
1843. To sing a different tune 1849. History certainly gives you (something to
A. To change the way one talks about something think about), doesn't it?
B. To brag about something A. food for thought
C. To be able to handle a jolt B. cup of Joe
D. To buy or sell something C. golden handshake
1844. On account of D. forty winks
1. To settle dues 1850. He (made an irreversible change, that will
greatly impact his life) when he got that huge
2. To make excuses
tattoo on his back!
3. Because of
A. beat the dead horse
4. To mark one’s territory
B. became the devil's advocate
1845. Gut Feeling
C. crossed the Rubicon
A. To have a dispute with someone
D. put a rose on his nose
B. A personal intuition you get especially when
1851. Ethnic Cleansing
feel something may not be right
A. Worshiping of a certain ethnic or religious
C. Very excited and or joyful, especially when in
group on a massive scale
love
B. Killing of a certain ethnic or religious group on
D. Doing things recklessly
a massive scale
1846. Between a rock and a hard place
C. One who was previously unknown and is now
A. Stuck between two very bad options prominent
B. Willing to do anything D. A large number of people either falling ill or
C. On the point of achievement dying

D. Avoiding the main topic, not speaking directly 1852. Don’t start to think we've (won this game
about the issue certainly), gentlemen.

1847. To go a long way A. swallowed the bitter truth

1. To become successful in life B. held our horses

2. To join a foreign company C. have skin in the game

3. To avoid short cuts D. got this game in the bag

4. To go on a long drive 1853. Fixed in one's ways

1848. In ones and twos A. Something that shows potential or looks

promising in the beginning but fails to deliver
A. In small numbers
anything in the end
B. Bv unfair means
Page No. 135
B. To establish one’s rule D. To be late for everything
C. Not willing or wanting to change from your 1859. A broth of a boy
normal way of doing something A. Not attached to someone
D. An aggressive attack on someone by a group B. To have specific food choices
1854. To pull your weight C. To behave foolishly
A. To do your fair share of work D. A lively, energetic young person
B. To help one's relatives
1860. To eat crow
C. To buy something A. To take great care
D. To give something B. To become non-vegetarian
1855. They were really (selecting from the last or C. To take money back
worst of the resources left ) when they picked
you. D. To admit that one is wrong

A. scraping the bottom of the barrel 1861. Lily-livered

B. rolling the stones (a) Naughty (b) Comical

C. pulling up snakes (c) Not brave (d) Brave

D. going haywire 1862. tied in knots.

1856. Give and take (a) Confused (b) Punished

A. An aggressive and bold confrontation (c) Hindered (d) Controlled

B. Compromise, cooperation between people 1863. Sharp practice

C. A competition where the outcome is difficult to (a) Briefly (b) Dishonesty

judge or predict (c) Frequently (d) Nearby
D. It seems likely, reasonable, or typical 1864. Scrape the barrel
1857. That's just like Julie - always (coming to (a) To be forced to use one's last and weakest
conclusions too quickly) even before she knows resource
the facts.
(b) Trying to find something
A. jumping in with both feet
(c) Using all the ways to achieve the desired
B. raring to go result
C. sailing in the same boat (d) Hiding something
D. biting her own tongue 1865. To prime the pump
1858. Rust bucket (a) To use a pump efficiently
A. To be absent minded (b) Manipulate someone to achieve success
B. An old man (c) Encourage the growth or action of something
C. A vehicle that is old or almost broken (d) Ask others to be ambitious

Page No. 136

1866. Back against the wall 1872. My business partners thought that I would
simply accept their cheating, but they will soon
(a) Be in a relationship which one wants to
realise that I am more powerful than what they
escape
expected.
(b) Be in a difficult situation from where escape
(a) cutting a cloth
is difficult
(b) they caught a tartar
(c) Be in a difficult situation from where escape
is easy (c) casting pearls before swine
(d) Be in an easy situation from where escape is (d) damsel in distress
difficult 1873. Your career is now completely obsolete.
1867. Bad iron (a) hanging by a thread
(a) Not hot (b) Bad behaviour (b) as dead as a doornail
(c) No steam (d) Bad luck (c) dead even
1868. Has he lost his mind? He is falling foul of (d) moving like a worm
everybody.
1874. Select the most appropriate idiom for the
(a) Quite puzzled with
given situation.
(b) Having an amicable talk with I was very excited about my new assignment. I
(c) Maintaining a sort of coldness sent the email without the required attachment.
What have I done?
(d) Quarrelling with
(a) As swift as an eagle
1869. Get into a scrape
(b) Jumped the gun
(a) Creating a problem
(c) Tested the waters
(b) Explaining a problem
(d) Shook a leg
(c) Solving a problem
1875. The peasants worked the whole day in the
(d) Involved in a problem
fields and stopped working in the evening and
1870. I’m going to be in trouble if I don’t submit went to their homes.
my homework to the teacher.
(a) gave it a whirl (b) called it a day
(a) off base (b) up the creek
(c) put ice on it (d) ran around in circles
(c) the lion’s share (d) a devil’s advocate
1876. Identify the option that can be substituted
1871. A perfect storm as the correct idiom for the underlined part of
(a) Appropriate for all occasions the given sentence.

(b) The worst possible situation As soon as the principal came to know about the
inspection in the school, he put everything in
(c) Healing from trauma
perfect order.
(d) Pretty good judgement
(a) Alley apple (b) Apple of discord
(c) Apple pie order (d) Apple of one’s eye
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137
1877. by the ear (d) Good ideas
(a) improvise (b) spread rumour 1883. Brave people never hide at the moment of
decision.
(c) be attentive (d) criticise
(a) When the crunch comes
1878. You snooze, you lose
(b) Beat the clock
(a) If you are not alert, you are likely to miss
opportunities. (c) A hell of time
(b) You may lose your money if snoozing is not (d) Turn back the hands of time
stopped 1884. It's better to get less than what you want
(c) Laziness is not good than get nothing.
(d) If you oversleep, you are likely to lose a job (a) Half a loaf is better than none.
1879. In a soup (b) Waste not, want not.
(a) To exhibit cowardice (c) Where there is smoke, there is fire.
(b) Extremely short of money (d) A storm in a teacup
(c) In trouble 1885. Memory like sieve
(d) To get nothing (a) Being healthy (b) Poor memory
1880. I really don’t want to pour cold water on (c) Feeling ill (d) Remembering everything
your theory but it cannot be applied to real life 1886. Select the most appropriate idiom for the
situations. given situation.
(a) To be critical or doubtful of a plan that Geetika spoke a lot about her new movie.
someone is excited about However, it came to nothing in the theatres.
(b) To take revenge on someone by destroying (a) To give the devil his dues
their lives’ work under the pretext of bad quality
(b) To get into hot water
(c) To destroy someone’s written piece of work
(c) To dig the grave
(d) To give goosebumps by showing a prospect
(d) To end in smoke
1881. Select the most appropriate idiom or
phrase to fill in the blank in the given sentence. 1887. Select the most appropriate idiom for the
given situation.
He is rich and famous and expects everyone to
_________ on him. Mayank was speaking a lot about honesty, but
when Rita reminded him about the money paid to
(a) dance attendance (b) tap dance like mad him for the work, he behaved cowardly and left
(c) dead duck (d) give a song and dance the place.
1882. At cross purposes (a) Flogging a dead horse
(a) Disagreeing with each other’s idea (b) Gliding the pill
(b) Finalising ideas and plans (c) Falling flat
(c) Agreeing with each other’s plans (d) Going with his tail between his legs
Page No. 138
1888. One who hurries up always gets the best. (d) bigger fish to fry
(a) Brevity is the soul of wit. 1894. Queer pitch
(b) Forewarned is forearmed. (a) Make a weird request
(c) The early bird catches the worm (b) Make a lot of progress
(d) His bark is worse than his bite. (c) Act out of normal
1889. Like a cat on a hot tin roof (d) Spoil somebody's chance of doing something
(a) Studying very hard 1895. Turn his hand to
(b) Being lazy (a) To resolve
(c) Being in a state of agitation (b) To adapt or apply to
(d) Urging somebody not to worry about (c) To try new things
something (d) To try hard
1890. Most of the people say that some people 1896. Everything in the mansion was in great
fight for the cause but most of them don’t confusion after the robbery.
support it.
(a) Pick holes
(a) Are out of frying pan onto the fire
(b) Pell-mell
(b) Spare the rod and spoil the child
(c) Turn over a new leaf
(c) Pay only lip service
(d) Damp squib
(d) Mind their P’s and q’s
1897. He was alone and knew the dangers ahead
1891. On the straight and narrow during his journey, but he tried to keep up his
(a) The unrefined and complicated confidence.
(b) The straightforward and ethically acceptable (a) whistled in the dark
(c) The honest but dubious (b) made a sterner stuff
(d) The unpredictable though genuine (c) stepped up his game
1892. Have a bash (d) wouldn’t be caught dead
(a) to betray a close friend 1898. Select the most appropriate idiom for the
underlined segment in the following sentence.
(b) to make an attempt
Nitish’s promotion is due.
(c) to spoil a moment
(a) On the cards
(d) to put something on hold
(b) Not worth his salt
1893. Playing fantasy games on internet is an
easy way to make money quickly but it’s risky. (c) With due respect
(a) in for a penny in for a pound (d) Done to death
(b) not fair and square
(c) making a quick buck
Page No. 139
1899. Select the most appropriate idiom for the (a) To criticise someone
given situation. (b) To force someone to commit a mistake
Aurangzeb, the famous Mughal ruler, found that (c) To make someone angry
he had caught someone more powerful than him
in the form of the brave Maratha, Shivaji. (d) To make someone laugh

(a) Nipping in the bud 1905. Select the correct idiom to replace the bold
segment in the given sentence.
(b) Changing the hands
We should ask Emily to join our team. She is as
(c) Catching a tartar keen as butter.
(d) Blazing the trail (a) as keen as a bee
1900. The candidate blamed the persistent traffic (b) as keen as mustard
jam as reason of his being late and the
interviewer believed him though he was not (c) as keen as salt (d) as keen as sugar
convinced. 1906. What a small world!
(a) gave the benefit of doubt (a) The world is great.
(b) changed his tune (b) What a beautiful place!
(c) thought err is human and to forgive is divine (c) The world is a village.
(d) did not judge the book by its cover (d) What a coincidence!
1901. I hate to get off on the wrong foot. 1907. Select the most appropriate idiom for the
(a) To start something with positive factors given situation.

(b) To start something with neutral factors Ravi has a strong desire to be in college hockey
team this year and he is working hard to gain
(c) To start a relationship or activity badly such skills to fulfill his goal of life. He has clearly
(d) To start something with an injury on the made up his mind to achieve his target.
wrong foot (a) To rise to the occasion
1902. More people in Turkey are on the breadline (b) To make the cut
now than thirty years ago.
(c) Set sights on
(a) Be very poor (b) Are well educated
(d) To move the goal posts
(c) Be very expensive (d) Earn a lot of money
1908. Select the correct idiom that can substitute
1903. We dodged a bullet when we didn’t fall for the bold group of words in the given sentence.
the agents’ words.
He really stinks and smells foul after a hard
(a) To give something a try
session at the gym.
(b) To narrowly avoid situation (a) an old flame
(c) To be out of your comfort zone (b) an iron will
(d) To start performing better (c) pen and ink
1904. Crack someone up (d) lame excuse
Page No. 140
1909. All my efforts went in vain. The project on (d) brought a dog’s breast
which I was working for the last two months has 1915. Keep a straight face
failed and we are _________________.
(a) Become very confused
(a) all in the seventh heaven
(b) Get on extremely well with someone
(b) back to square one
(c) Not laugh or change your expression even
(c) on the fly (d) around the bend though you want to laugh
1910. Choosing not to pursue a degree in (d) Make more of an effort
computer engineering was ________, as the
market for them is extremely limited nowadays. 1916. Grasping at straws

(a) airy fairy (b) a cut above (a) Trying to find the best way to compete with
others when nothing you choose is likely to work
(c) an elevator pitch (d) a blessing in disguise
(b) Trying to find some way to succeed when you
1911. I think we should ________ before buying this see others are also doing the same
car.
(c) Trying to find some way to succeed when
(a) eat like a horse (b) hold our horses nothing you choose is likely to work
(c) stop to change horses
(d) Trying to find manipulative ways to succeed
(d) get off our high horse 1917. I like her because she never likes to make
1912. A plum job _________.
(a) An easy and pleasant job (a) a slap on the wrist
(b) A rare job (b) a drop in the bucket
(c) A difficult job (c) a bed of roses (d) a quick buck
(d) A job involving extensive travelling 1918. We’ve sent a very strong protest letter. That
should make them sit up and take notice.
1913. Keep count of
(a) Follow (b) Attend
(a) To remind of a deadline
(c) Observe (d) Consider
(b) To act more politely
1919. Our Director took a meeting and asked us to
(c) To remember a total
express our views on ___________ of the new HR
(d) To accept an invitation policy.
1914. Select the most appropriate idiom that can (a) the bandwagon (b) the pros and cons
substitute the bold segment in the given
(c) the hook (d) the ups and downs
sentence.
He made a mess of that bookcase he was 1920. He got a burst of energy and started digging
supposed to be repairing. again.
(a) made a pig’s ear (a) took bull by the horns
(b) had a butcher hook (b) a fancy of someone
(c) made a clean breast (c) second wind (d) heart on the sleeve
Page No. 141
1921. The company had some initial problems, but 1926. A snowball effect
now it is ________. (a) An accelerating growth of magnitude
(a) flying like a rock (b) Trick someone completely
(b) flying the nest (c) Cold and uncomfortable
(c) flying a kite (d) Slow movement
(d) flying high 1927. My final round of Spell Bee Competition is
1922. You must lie in the bed you have made. coming up and to win this event, I need to study
hard from today.
(a) Face the unpleasant consequences of your
own acts (a) burn the books (b) hit the books
(b) Sleep on the bed you made yourself (c) cut to the chase (d) pour my heart out
(c) Sleep in your own bed 1928. The modern era statistics data provides
useful advantage to the players at competent
(d) Be contended always
level.
1923. Do you believe that you have a possibility of
(a) Cost an arm and a leg
getting that job?
(b) Grist to the mill
(a) spill the beans
(c) Put something on ice (d) Play it by ear
(b) snow job
1929. Step up to the plate
(c) stand a chance (d) shoot the breeze
(a) Think about a crisis
1924. Get your act together
(b) Plan for better performance
(a) To ruin one’s plans
(c) Implement a plan
(b) To organise yourself so that you can do
something properly (d) Take control of a situation
(c) To get the conversation going 1930. He ate the whole bunch of grapes under the
nose of all of us.
(d) To understand something complicated
(a) After much persuasion
1925. Select the most appropriate idiom for the
given situation. (b) In full view of somebody
He started with an online company and became a (c) Sharing equally (d) Secretly
millionaire. Then, he sold it and invested in the 1931. Christy should discuss this with her face to
share market and earned more money. Now, he face.
has invested in the transportation industry and is
generating huge wealth. What does he have? (a) With another person in their presence rather
than, say, by phone or letter
(a) As genuine as a three-dollar bill
(b) Come to fully accept or understand
(b) Midas touch something
(c) Rule of thumb (c) Remained normal and realistic
(d) Sticky fingers (d) Almost always
Page No. 142
1932. Doctors are raising hue and cry against the (c) To have passion or great intelligence
RTH bill. underneath a calm expression
(a) Enquire (d) To be confused or not understand something
(b) Protest 1938. Fall into line
(c) Postpone (a) Searching something
(d) Abandon (b) Adhere to rules
1933. Hear someone out (c) Fuming and shouting
(a) Let someone complete what they are saying (d) Straight road to walk
(b) Hear from far away 1939. Mincing walk
(c) Dismiss someone from listening to you (a) Giant and huge garden
(d) Keep someone out (b) Small and delicate steps
1934. Most of the ministers are concerned with (c) Show and tell arena
the _________ of office than the service of man. (d) Big and large house
(a) leaps and bounds 1940. Completely mistaken
(b) loaves and fishes (a) Bite the bullet
(c) wear and tear (d) Herculean task (b) All wet
1935. Select the most appropriate idiom for the (c) Hunger pangs (d) Though thick and thin
given situation.
(1941 to 1950) Based on the situation given below
She said she liked my hair, but it turned out to be choose the appropriate idiom from the given
a left handed compliment. options:
(a) A joke 1941. Mary had been preparing for an important
(b) A flattery job interview for weeks. She had researched the
company thoroughly, practiced her answers, and
(c) An insult
was feeling confident. However, on the day of the
(d) A praise interview, she woke up with a severe headache
1936. The new routine will suit you to a T. and a sore throat. Despite feeling unwell, she
decided to go ahead with the interview, hoping
(a) nicely
that her preparation would carry her through.
(b) a little bit
In this situation, which idiom best describes
(c) exactly Mary's determination to proceed with the
(d) very poorly interview despite feeling unwell?

1937. Still waters run deep (a) Butterflies in her stomach

(a) A very serious situation (b) Bite the bullet

(b) Desperate measures made in order to come (c) A piece of cake

out of a difficult situation (d) Spill the beans
Page No. 143
1942. Alex and Sarah were participating in a (c) Don't make a mountain out of a molehill
team-building workshop. During one of the (d) Too many cooks spoil the broth
activities, they were given a challenging task that
required them to work together to solve a 1945. Your friend advises you, "The early bird
complex problem. However, they had different catches the worm," when discussing the
approaches to the problem and were struggling importance of punctuality. What does this
to find common ground. expression imply?

In this situation, which idiom best describes Alex (a) We should take advantage of opportunities by
and Sarah's difficulty in reaching an agreement? being proactive and prompt.

(a) Burning the midnight oil (b) We should wake up early to have a productive
day.
(b) Two peas in a pod
(c) We should prioritize rest and relaxation to
(c) Walking on eggshells (d) Butting heads maintain good health.
1943. John had been procrastinating on his (d) We should always be prepared for expected
assignment for weeks, and the deadline was fast opportunities.
approaching. He finally realized that he needed
to start working on it seriously to complete it on 1946. Your mentor tells you, "Actions speak
time. However, he found it challenging to louder than words," when discussing the
concentrate, and every time he sat down to work, importance of demonstrating your abilities. What
he would get distracted by his phone, social does this expression imply?
media, or random thoughts. (a) We should prioritize verbal communication
In this situation, which idiom best describes over non-verbal cues.
John's struggle to stay focused and avoid (b) We should focus on our achievements and let
distractions? them speak for themselves.
(a) Monkey on his back (c) Our words should be carefully chosen to
(b) A piece of cake convey our intentions.

(c) Spill the beans (d) Burn bridges (d) We should express ourselves boldly and
confidently
1944. In a small village, two neighbouring
families, the Smiths and the Browns, had been 1947. Your colleague mentions, "Don't put all your
friends for generations. However, a eggs in one basket," when discussing investment
misunderstanding occurred between their strategies. What does this expression imply?
children during a local festival, leading to a (a) We should prioritize short-term gains over
heated argument. The elders of both families long-term stability.
decided to intervene and resolve the dispute.
(b) We should focus on one investment option for
Which proverb best reflects the approach taken maximum returns.
by the elders to resolve the misunderstanding
(c) We should diversify our investments to
between the Smiths and the Browns?
mitigate risks.
(a) A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush
(d) We should avoid investing altogether and
(b) Don't count your chickens before they hatch keep our money safe.
Page No. 144
1948. The plans to cut funding are penny wise (a) With much noise, excitement or commotion.
pound foolish. (b) A narrow escape from a situation.
(a) A sudden stopping of any habit. (c) Repeating ourselves.
(b) Careful about spending small amounts but (d) Very common, inexpensive.
not about large amounts.
1953. The statement below has been given with
(c) A sarcastic response to a foolish statement. bracketed text. Select the option with correct
(d) So abundant or common as to hold little or no Idiom for the bracketed text.
value. "Well, (I am about to drink this!)" Lilly said before
1949. The radio host is known for always being on taking her cough medicine.
his high horse, despite the fact that everyone (a) clip your wings! (b) easy as a pie!
knows he's a creep.
(c) chill out! (d) down the hatch!
(a) To find a way to deal something.
1954. Determine the meaning of the bracketed
(b) Acting superior and arrogant. idiom from the statement given below.
(c) To behave or look strange. The celebrity's glamorous lifestyle may seem
(d) To find out the real cause of something. perfect on social media, but (all that glitters is
not gold), and it's crucial to recognize that
1950. Your colleague says, "Don't count your
everyone has their struggles and challenges.
chickens before they hatch" when discussing a
potential promotion. What does this expression (a) Everything that shines is made of gold
imply? (b) Appearances can be deceiving
(a) We should not make assumptions or (c) Social media is a reliable source of
predictions before the outcome is certain information
(b) We should set realistic goals and (d) Celebrities always have a perfect life
expectations
1955. Determine the meaning of the underlined
(c) We should be cautious and avoid taking risks idiom from the statement given below.
(d) We should be patient and wait for the right After accidentally spilling her drink on her
opportunity friend's new dress, Emily quickly realized she
1951. Keep a lid on had (added insult to injury) when she
accidentally stepped on her friend's foot as well.
(a) keep the change (b) keep up the good work
(a) To apologize sincerely for a mistake
(c) keep a record of something
(b) To avoid admitting fault and pretend nothing
(d) keep emotions under control
happened
1952. The sentence given below contains an
(c) To unintentionally cause additional harm or
idiom. Identify the idiom and choose its correct
offense after a previous mistake or injury
meaning from the given options.
(d) To try to make amends for a wrong action
I had a close shave this morning when a trailer
unexpectedly swerved into my lane.

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1956. The sentence given below contains an (d) jumped off the deep end
idiom. Identify the idiom and choose its correct 1960. That new budget bill was (useless and
meaning from the given options. hopeless) before it hit the Parliament.
I know Aunt Jean isn't your favourite person, but (a) down in the drain
she gave you that beautiful sweater as a present,
so don't look a gift horse in the mouth! (b) an axe to grind

(a) To be very calm. (c) an albatross around the neck

(b) Take what you get without criticism. (d) a dead duck

(c) To have something to complain about. 1961. The college management organised a small
get together for the first year students who had
(d) Take great care over details. joined recently and the rest of the college to (be
(1957 to 1962) Determine the meaning of the relaxed in each other’s company).
bracketed idiom from the statement given below. (a) cut a long story short
1957. John is known for his healthy lifestyle. He (b) Give a high five
religiously follows the saying (An apple a day
keeps the doctor away). (c) Take a chill pill

(a) John believes in superstitions and eats (d) Break the ice
apples for good luck. 1962. My aunt’s favourite child is her daughter, so
(b) John dislikes doctors and prefers to keep his she (ignores purposely something that is wrong)
distance. all her faults.

(c) John eats apples daily to stay fit and avoid (a) Nit picks
getting sick. (b) Curries favour to
(d) John enjoys gardening and grows apple trees (c) apple of her eye
in his backyard
(d) Turns a blind eye
1958. Failing to get those tickets , (will ruin my
1963. Choose the correct option to fill in the blank
plans and image).
that completes the idioms used in the given
(a) easy come, easy go situation
(b) drop in the bucket John decided to accept the job offer he received,
(c) cook my goose realizing that a bird in the hand is worth ______,
and it was better to have a secure job now rather
(d) come apart than risk waiting for uncertain opportunities in
1959. I probably (said it before it was the right the future.
time) with announcing our engagement before (a) two in the bush
everyone was there.
(b) one on the ground
(a) hit the hay
(c) none in the nest
(b) went bananas
(d) a hundred in the sky
(c) jumped the gun

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1964. Select the most appropriate idiom that (c) Kick the bucket (d) Break a leg
conveys the meaning given in the brackets to fill 1969. Speak of the devil
in the blank.
(a) Mentioning someone and they appear out of
Rekha was dismissed from her job at the beauty nowhere
parlour. She was __________ (discovered doing
something illegal or forbidden), stealing some of (b) Breaking somebody’s trust due to devil
the supplies. intentions

(a) neck deep in debt (c) Interrupt somebody’s conversation

intentionally
(b) caught red handed
(d) Speaking of all the evil things to scare
(c) in the thick of action someone
(d) having the time of her life 1970. Give someone the benefit of the doubt
1965. Select the most appropriate idiom that (a) Trust what someone says
conveys the meaning given in the brackets to fill
in the blank. (b) Having trust issues with someone

Ever since their last quarrel, my two best friends (c) Be doubtful about someone’s intentions
have been _____________ (ignoring and treating in (d) Never trust someone at all
an unfriendly way) each other in public.
1971. Better late than never
(a) giving each other the cold shoulder
(a) Better to arrive late always
(b) giving each other high fives
(b) Better to arrive late than not to come at all
(c) having a chip on their shoulder
(c) Always be on time
(d) crossing swords with
(d) Better to not go at all
1966. All thumbs
1972. Take it with a grain of salt
(a) Clumsy (b) Quick
(a) Don’t take it too seriously.
(c) Artistic (d) Skilful
(b) Take a risk
1967. Cool your heels
(c) Don’t make it obvious
(a) Lose confidence or courage
(d) Take it too seriously
(b) Take rest after hard work
1973. Bear a grudge
(c) Be calm in a difficult situation
(a) To forgive someone for something done in the
(d) Be kept waiting by someone past
1968. Select the most appropriate idiom that (b) To doubt someone’s intentions
means the following.
(c) To blame somebody with their fault
To face a difficult or unpleasant situation with
(d) To continue to feel angry or unfriendly for
courage and determination.
someone or something because of a particular
(a) Bite the bullet (b) Walk on eggshells past incident.

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1974. Down for the count 1980. Ring a bell
(a) Feeling tired and give up (a) Sounds indifferent (b) Sounds familiar
(b) Feeling dull & energetic simultaneously (c) Sounds interesting (d) Sounds strange
(c) Feeling extremely energetic 1981. All ears
(d) Feeling extremely happy (a) Good at small talks
1975. Left out in the cold (b) Eager to listen to what someone has to say
(a) Being ignored (c) To avoid someone
(b) Being extremely angry (d) Not paying heed to someone while they talk
(c) Being grungy 1982. Bigger fish to fry
(d) Being very happy (a) Not repeating same mistakes
1976. Keep an ear to the ground (b) More important things to do
(a) Keep looking to the ground for something (c) Not wanting to do important things
(b) Staying alienated in the real life (d) Doing a lot of unplanned things
(c) Staying uninformed and not updated about 1983. Give one the slip
anything (a) to flatter others
(d) Staying informed and updated about (b) to neglect someone
everything
(c) to give a notice
1977. A bolt from the blue
(d) to escape from someone
(a) A planned and well executed event
1984. Close fisted
(b) To be in a difficult situation
(a) miserly (b) very angry
(c) A sudden, unexpected event
(c) benevolent (d) revengeful
(d) Expecting to attend an event
1985. Cat and dog life
1978. Miss the boat/ bus
(a) to wander aimlessly
(a) To grab the opportunity on time
(b) to be frequently quarrelling
(b) To miss an opportunity
(c) to lead a nomadic life
(c) To be late for bus
(d) to live in poverty
(d) To be on time to board the bus
1986. In one's element
1979. Once bitten, twice shy
(a) in one's favour
(a) Need to do something urgently
(b) in a cheerful mood
(b) Excited to try something new
(c) in a disguise
(c) Afraid of doing something again
(d) in a comfortable situation
(d) To be in a hurry to do something

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1987. A feast for the eyes 1993. Change hands
(a) a lavish spread of food A. Pass from one person to another
(b) a pleasing visual experience B. Give away something you do not need
(c) a remedy for good eyesight C. Move from one hand to another
(d) a well presented but tasteless dish D. Carry something in both hands
1988. Take a walk 1994. Keep in check
(a) rudely telling someone to go away A. to keep something safe
(b) diffusing a tense situation B. to place an order
(c) following someone secretly C. to control something
(d) comforting someone in pain D. to test something
1989. Go the extra mile 1995. To be moved to tears
(a) take a longer route in a journey A. to be mesmerised by something
(b) over-achieve the targets B. to be overwhelmed with emotion
(c) make more effort than is expected C. to be surprised or shocked
(d) lose the way in a foreign country D. to be transported to another world
1990. Take the high ground 1996. Get the axe
(a) to behave childishly A. Burdened job B. Lose the job
(b) to act morally C. Relaxed job D. Get the job
(c) to show arrogance 1997. Loosen the purse strings
(d) to ridicule the lowly A. to reduce the expenditure
1991. Alive and kicking B. to increase the money available for
expenditure
A. to be very good in football
C. to lose a purse
B. to be active and healthy
D. to be miserly
C. to behave childishly
1998. Loudmouth
D. to be careless and unafraid
A. one who talks well
1992. Make no bones about something
B. one who talks boastfully
A. insist on buying only boneless mutton
C. one who speaks calmly
B. be frank and open about something
D. one who speaks nervously
C. be fussy about bones in one's soup
1999. Go bonkers
D. take care of one's health
A. become crazy B. become wealthy
C. become selfish D. become greedy
Page No. 149
2000. A dime a dozen 2006.
2006. Choose
Choose the
the idiom/phrase
idiom/phrase that
that can
can
A. not available everywhere substitute the highlighted group of words
substitute the highlighted group of words
meaningfully.
B. common and so of little value meaningfully.
I feel they are
C. available only in bulk 1.I feel they are
Breathing watching
down me too closely and
one's neck
D. in great demand as not easily available making
2. Undermethefeel uncomfortable in the new
cloud
3. Break a leg
college.
2001. He often changes plans while doing his
4. Run out ofdown
1. Breathing steamone's neck
work. So, his tasks remain incomplete.
2007. To raise the wind
1. In seventh heaven 2. Under the cloud
1. To teach mannerism
2. Change horses in midstream 3. Break a leg 4. Run out of steam
2. To obtain the necessary funds
3. Break a leg 4. Spill the beans 2007.
3. To raise
To head the wind
an army
2002. Have a good run 1. To teach
4. release mannerism
one's frustration
2008. To stand
2. To obtain theone's groundfunds
necessary
1. To experience joy or success in some
1.3.To
Togive
headupan army
endeavour, but only for a limited period of 2. Arranged in order
time 4. To release one's frustration
3. To give in
2. To escape from a prison 2008.
4. To stand
To refuse one's ground
to change opinion
3. A good amount of money 1. To give
2009. Neck upor2.nothing
Arranged in order
1.3.Undergoing
To give in 4.great risks to change opinion
To refuse
4. A long journey
2. To have
2009. Necknoormoney
nothing
2003. Go with a bang
3. Passion for singing
1. Party like there’s no tomorrow 1. Undergoing great risks 2. To have no money
4. Next to nothing
2. Decide according to the situation 3. Passion for singing 4. Next to nothing
2010. To sit at someone’s feet
3. To go crazy 1.2010. To sit upon
To attend at someone’s feet disciple
as someone's
4. Very exciting and successful 1. To attend
2. upon as someone's
wash someone's feet disciple
3.
2. To
To be
washsomeone's
someone's equalfeet
2004. Under the sun
4.
3. To
To be
be proud
someone'sof someone
equal
1. In public 2011. To huff and puff
2. On earth 4. To be proud of someone
1. To be perplexed
3. Under suspicion 2011.
2. To huff
To get into and puff
trouble
4. At high risk 1. To be
3. perplexed
breathe heavily 2. orTo get into
rapidly trouble
because one is
exhausted
3. To breathe heavily or rapidly because one is
2005. A stick in the mud
exhausted
4. To speak ill of
1. A person with no character
2012.
4. To To mount
speak the throne
ill of
2. A person without any fear 1.2012.
To bring disgrace to the family
To mount the throne
3. A person who resists change 2. To take the responsibility
1. To bring disgrace to the family
4. A generous person
2. To take the responsibility
3. To become king, queen etc.
4. To leave one’s palace

Page No. 150

2013. Smell blood 2018. Run of the mill

1. Restart a work 1. Antagonist

2. To sense malpractice 2. Caretaker

3. To be suspicious about something 3. Leader

4. To sense a weakness in your opponent 4. Ordinary

2014. Drastic times call for drastic measures 2019. Lose by a neck

1. When you are extremely desperate you need to 1. To lose one’s necklace
take extremely desperate actions 2. Lose by a small margin
2. Something that ends at the last minute or last 3. To cut short a matter
few seconds
4. To stop someone from putting forward his
3. Don’t rely on it until you sure of it views
4. Do not pull all your resources in one possibility 2020. The old Adam
2015. The party was great and we thoroughly 1. A person with orthodox thinking
enjoyed.
2. The evil or reckless side of human nature
1. in the dark
3. An old strategy in action
2. Beat around the bush
4. Beginning of a new journey
3. Cut corners 4. Had a ball
2021. To pop the question
2016. Nothing to Sneeze at
1. To give a wrong answer
1. Lowest Ranking
2. To ask a nonsense question
2. To keep secrets
3. To propose marriage
3. Not well known of used
4. To mark important details
4. Something important that deserves serious
2022. A wild cat strike
attention
1. Winsome situation
2017. The police have been investigating his
accounts looking for evidence of fraud. 2. A strike that is started by a group of workers
without the approval of their union
1. Through thick and thin
3. A wrong action
2. in the dark
4. Protest by farmers
3. Digging around 4. Hitting the hay
2023. Off the Beaten Track
1. Little-known
2. Contagions
3. On a Strict budget

Page No. 151

4. Adventurous C. The government ordered a judicial enquiry into
the communal riots in a bid to pacify the
2024. To stick one’s neck out
situation.
1. To take a risk
D. From his behaviour it is obvious that someone
2. To enjoy has prejudiced him against me.
3. To resign 4. To bring things to notice 1. Both statements B and D correctly use the
2025. Pitch and toss idiom.

1. To feel unlucky 2. To reveal a secret 2. Only statement B correctly uses the idiom.

3. A brief account of something 3. Both statements A and C correctly use the

idiom.
4. A game of chance
4. Only statement C correctly uses the idiom.
2026. To beat the band
2030. Better late than never
1. To refuse to talk
1. It’s better to finish something late than to never
2. To a huge or the greatest possible extent.
do it at all
3. To procrastinate
2. It’s good to be clean. God is clean, and you
4. To resign from one’s job. should be too
2027. All along 3. Don’t make someone angry or hurt someone
1. Everywhere who is helping you or paying for you

2. At the desired place 4. People who are similar spend time together

3. People in unity 2031. Select the correct conclusion based on

the meaning of the underlined idiom:
4. All the time from the beginning
Statement: Splitting hairs is futile and will not
2028. The Ship has sailed
resolve our problem.
1. The matter is carried over
Conclusion:
2. The matter is decided
i. A superficial investigation will suffice for the
3. The opportunity has passed problem at hand.
4. Seeking new opportunities ii. Making peevish criticisms on trivial matters will
2029. Which of the following statements not lead us anywhere.
correctly use the idiom ' pour oil on troubled iii. A difference of opinion is not tolerated in a
waters' by substituting the underlined words? dictatorship.
A. If you unnecessarily interfere in others' 1. Only conclusion (ii) is correct
affairs, you will suffer yourselves.
2. Both conclusion (ii) and (iii) are correct
B. Fed up with frequent strikes, the management
3. Only conclusion (i) is correct
decided to ,deal with the situation decisively.
4. Both conclusion (i) and (iii) are correc

Page No. 152

2032. Select the most appropriate meaning of The whole agitation against the new regulations
the given idiom was a storm in a tea cup.
It’s a small world i. The agitation was so profound that it spread to all
parts of the country.
1. You frequently see the same people in different
places ii. The disagreement over the crucial policy
garnered universal support.
2. A competition where the outcome is difficult to
judge or predict iii. The protest died down quickly as it was an
unnecessary fuss over a trivial matter.
3. Make all possible efforts
iv. The agitation was joined by thousands of people
4. An aggressive and bold confrontation
despite the adverse weather conditions.
2033. Which of the following statements
1. Only ii is correct 2. Both ii and iv are correct
correctly uses the idiom 'red rag to a bull’ by
substituting the underlined words? 3. Only iii is correct 4. Both i and iv are correct
A. The poor subordinates are made scapegoats 2036. Which of the following statements
for the misdeeds of their superiors. correctly uses the idiom ' kicked up a row’ by
substituting the underlined words?
B. For me, a person playing a double game is
someone who specially provokes me. A. Even if we are not able to help our friends, we
should not treat them coldly and formally.
C. Since your boss is well disposed towards you,
you must act promptly and ask for a promotion. B. The machine operator created a big fuss when
he was admonished for not following the
D. The huge loss to our factory due to the floods
instructions correctly.
was a totally unexpected disaster.
C. Success is important but not by resorting to
1. Statement A 2. Statement D
unfair means.
3. Statement B 4. Statement C
D. The brothers have been running around ever
2034. Select the most appropriate meaning of since they had a dispute over their land.
the given proverb from the options
1. Statement A 2. Statement C
Knowledge is power
3. Statement D 4. Statement B
1. The more you know, the more powerful you can
2037. Select the correct conclusion based on
be in different areas of your life
the meaning of the underlined idiom:
2. Said when a son is similar to his father; also,
It should be one’s avowed policy to keep the
“Like mother, like daughter” flatterers at arm’s length.
3. When you’re in a difficult situation, laughing can Conclusion:
make it easier to get through that situation 1. The farther a person stays from flatterers, the
4. No one is truly capable of living alone. We need better it is.
human connection to be healthy 2. Having flatterers around boosts one’s self-
confidence.
2035. Select the correct conclusion based on
the meaning of the underlined idiom:
Page No. 153
3. Flatterers are not true well-wishers and should iii. The mother was extremely vigilant and caught
be kept at bay. the boy red handed one day.
1. Both 2 and 3 are correct 2. Only 2 is correct iv. The doting mother failed to see the faults of her
3. Only 3 is correct 4. Both 1 and 3 are correct boy and he became bolder in his acts.
2038. Select the most appropriate meaning of 1. only iv is correct 2. both ii and iv are correct
the given idiom
3. only iii is correct 4. both i and ii are correct
Make no bones about
2041. Select the most appropriate meaning of
1. Eventually, after a long period of time
the given proverb from the options
2. Someone who is unpredictable and can cause
damage if not kept in check The grass is always greener on the other side
3. Not willing to accept the ideas of others 1. If you’re trying to convince someone of
4. To state a fact so there are no doubts or something, words and ideas are stronger than
objections using physical force (common in politics)
2039. Which of the following statements 2. People always want what they don’t have
correctly uses the idiom 'at the eleventh hour’ 3. Nothing is free. Even the things that are free
by substituting the underlined words? have a hidden cost
A. While organizing the event, we realized that we 4. Your home is the most comfortable place in the
were running short of time. world
B. The runner in the third place overtook the ones 2042. Which of the following statements uses
ahead of him at the last moment and won the the given idiom correctly?
race.
(i) It is exciting to see the kangaroo court freely
C. She believes in planning meticulously well in moving about in the zoo.
advance so that there is no exigency later.
(ii) Many villages in India still organise a kangaroo
D. He disturbed me late at night to inform me of court, which is unfortunate.
his appointment as the Commissioner.
(iii) Those who conduct kangaroo courts will soon
1. Both B and C are correct find themselves hounded by the law of the land.
2. Both A and C are correct 1. Only statements (i) and (iii)
3. Only B is correct 4. Only D is correct 2. All the statements
2040. Select the correct conclusion based on 3. Only statements (i) and (ii)
the meaning of the underlined idiom:
4. Only statements (ii) and (iii)
The boy exulted in the success of his petty thefts
but the Argus-eyed mother knew it all. 2043. Select the conclusion(s) that follow(s)
based on the correct meaning of the underlined
i. The boy was clever enough to take a little money segment in the given sentence.
at a time so that his mother never noticed it.
Sentence:
ii. The mother looked at her boy with such love and
compassion that he regretted his actions.

Page No. 154

There might be some issues to be sorted out, Conclusion:
but it does not mean that we should throw the I. One should be beware of false appearances.
baby out with the bathwater.
II. We must not underestimate anyone based on
Conclusion: their looks.
(i) For the sake of opposition, we should not reject 1. Both conclusion I and II are correct
a proposal outright because of our concerns over a
few specifics. 2. Only conclusion I is correct

(ii) The bathwater should be clean, otherwise the 3. Only conclusion II is correct
baby will be sick. 4. Neither conclusion I nor II is correct
(iii) When a theory or an approach goes out of 2046. Which of the following statements uses
favour, we shift our loyalty completely towards the the given idiom correctly?
more fashionable one ignoring even the good
(i) When we vent our spleen we generally feel good.
aspects of the former.
(ii) Consult a doctor for controlling the damage to
1. Only conclusion (ii) 2. Only conclusion (i)
your system when you vent your spleen.
3. Only conclusion (i) and (iii)
(iii) His latest article in the newspaper vents his
4. Only Conclusion (iii) spleen on bureaucracy and the prevalence of red-
2044. Select the correct conclusion based on tapism.
the meaning of the underlined word. 1. Only statements (ii) and (iii)
Statement: She threw up the sponge after 2. Only statements (i) and (ii)
watching a female double her size as her
3. All the statements
opponent.
4. Only statements (i) and (iii)
Conclusion:
2047. Select the conclusion(s) that follow(s)
I. She forgot all her weaknesses and gave a good
based on the correct meaning of the underlined
fight.
segment in the given sentence.
II. She accepted her defeat.
Sentence:
III. She abandoned the competition.
Always remember that mighty oaks from little
1. Only conclusion I is correct acorns grow.
2. Only conclusion III is correct Conclusion:
3. Only conclusion II and III are correct (i) You cannot hope to grow a big plant by sowing
4. Only conclusion I and II are correct tiny seeds.

2045. Select the correct conclusion based on (ii) Some of the big business empires actually
the meaning of the underlined word. started off as small ventures.

Statement: His overnight success has taught (iii) Even great men can be brought down by small
me that you should never judge a book by its scandals.
cover. 1. Only conclusion (ii) 2. Only conclusion (i)
Page No. 155
3. Only conclusion (i) and (iii) 2050. Select the correct conclusion based on
the meaning of the underlined word.
4. Only Conclusion (iii)
Statement: You always feel exhausted because
Select the correct conclusion based on the
you put too many irons in the fire.
meaning of the underlined word.
Conclusion:
2048. Statement: He got selected for this dance
performance despite having so many problems I. You try to do too many things at the same time.
with the overall idea. No doubt, the squeaky
II. You want to be the topic of every discussion.
wheel gets the grease.
1. Only conclusion I is correct
Conclusion:
2. Both conclusion I and II are correct
I. The most reliable person in your life harms you.
3. Neither conclusion I nor II is correct
II. A person with selfish motives always tries to
grab everyone’s attention. 4. Only conclusion II is correct

1. Both conclusion I and II are correct 2051. Which of the following statements uses
the idiom correctly?
2. Only conclusion II is correct
(i) For a very long time some of the provisions of
3. Only conclusion I is correct the criminal code have remained a dead letter.
4. Neither conclusion I nor II is correct (ii) Many new schemes to benefit the poor and the
2049. Select the conclusion(s) that follow(s) marginalized are announced during election
based on the correct meaning of the underlined campaigns, but many of them remain a dead
segment in the following sentence. letter in implementation.
Sentence: (iii) The opening of the newest facility in airports
was a dead letter day for the flyers.
It is not prudent to try to keep up with the
Joneses. 1. Only statements (i) and (iii)
Conclusion: 2. Only statements (ii) and (iii)
(i) Most employees are in the good books of their 3. All the statements
employers by saying ‘Yes’ to whatever their 4. Only statements (i) and (ii)
employers say.
2052. Select the conclusion(s) that follow(s)
(ii) As a result, many middle class families are based on the correct meaning of the underlined
unable to live a debt-free life. segment in the following sentence.
(iii) People in the community respect the Joneses Sentence:
for their wisdom.
Many justify their actions saying that the end
1. Only conclusion (i) and (iii) justifies the means.
2. Only Conclusion (iii) Conclusion:
3. Only conclusion (i) (i) The means and ends are like two parallel lines;
4. Only conclusion (ii) they never meet.

Page No. 156

(ii) Those who have the means end up successful 2. All the statements
in life. 3. Only statements (i) and (ii)
(iii) In a war, the more powerful side does not 4. Only statements (ii) and (iii)
hesitate to use unconventional weapons to
achieve victory. 2055. Select the correct conclusion based on
the meaning of the underlined word.
1. Only conclusion (i) and (iii)
Statement: Book the tickets now, as the early
2. Only conclusion (ii)
bird gets the worm.
3. Only conclusion (i) Conclusion:
4. Only Conclusion (iii) I. Those who reply without thinking gets into
2053. Select the correct conclusion based on trouble.
the meaning of the underlined word. II. Those who are eager and early are the ones who
Statement: Pari believes I have the perfect life most succeed.
here; she should know that the grass is always 1. Only conclusion I is correct
greener on the other side.
2. Both conclusion I and II are correct
Conclusion:
3. Only conclusion II is correct
I. People are never satisfied with their own
situation. 4. Neither conclusion I nor II is correct

II. The things a person does not have always seem 2056. Select the most appropriate idiom that
more appealing than the things he or she does means the same as the given sentence.
have. Shyama looks innocent, but in reality, she is
1. Only conclusion I is correct cunning.

2. Only conclusion II is correct 1. Fortune favours the brave.

3. Neither conclusion I nor II is correct 2. Beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder.

4. Both conclusion I and II are correct . 3. Don’t judge a book by its cover.

2054. Which of the following statements uses 4. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.
the given idiom correctly? 2057. Select the sentence that gives the most
(i) Even when flood waters surround large parts of appropriate meaning of the idiom ‘Keep your
a town, some people have a whale of a time chin up’.
swimming in the waters and screaming. 1. The students diligently completed their
(ii) A whale of a time was found washed ashore on homework assignments before the deadline.
the beach and people gathered to see it. 2. Despite facing setbacks, she remained positive
(iii) Our family had a whale of a time last year and determined to achieve her goals.
when we went on vacation to Himachal Pradesh.
1. Only statements (i) and (iii)

Page No. 157

3. The hiker enjoyed the breathtaking view from the
mountaintop, taking in the natural beauty.
4. The scientist conducted experiments and
gathered data to support his research hypothesis.
2058. Select the most appropriate idiom that
best explains the given sentence.
I was unable to solve the geometry question
myself. So, I have asked my teacher to help me
out.
1. You can’t always get what you want.
2. Two heads are better than one.
3. When the going gets tough, the tough gets going.
4. Two wrongs don’t make a right.
2059. Select the sentence that gives the most
appropriate meaning of the idiom ‘In hot water’.
1. The chef added spices to the dish to enhance its
flavour and make it more delicious.
2. The children enjoyed playing in the pool on a hot
summer day.
3. After accidentally breaking the valuable vase,
Sarah found herself in trouble with her parents.
4. The company faced challenges due to the
economic downturn but managed to overcome
them.

Page No. 158

SSC Selection Post Phase XII 2024 (Idioms and 2064. Select the sentence that uses the given
phrase) idiom correctly.
2060. Select the most appropriate idiom to fill in Eat like a bird
the blank.
a. Overeating is the most obvious reason for gaining
____________, French was the most difficult weight quickly.
language for Shruti.
b. Pinky is on a diet so she is too picky about the
a. Bear outa b. Be in the air food she eats.
c. Break into d. By far c. The colonial powers colonised small countries by
exploiting them and stealing their resources.
2061. In the following question a sentence has
been given with a blank. You are required to d. Nobody can eat with Jerry at the same table as he
choose the correct idiom to fill in the blank. is so messy.
I'm ________until my family arrives from their 2065. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
holiday. I cannot wait to see them. given idiom.
a. losing ground All Greek to me
b. counting down the days a. Something that is fancy and classy
c. getting myself into a mess b. Something that is harmful to all
d. bearing the gift of the gab c. Something that is not understandable
2062. Select the most appropriate meaning of the d. Something that is ancient and classic
given idiom.
2066. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
A snake in the grass given idiom.
a. A worthless person Apple of discord
b. A man of ability a. Solution of dispute
c. A secret or hidden enemy b. Disruption of communication
d. A man with a straightforward attitude c. Matter of dispute d. Cause of happiness
2063. Select the most appropriate meaning of the 2067. Based on the situation in the sentence,
given underlined idiom. select the most appropriate idiom.
The construction of the office building of the Although Greta Thunberg gave a moving speech at
company was taking place in leaps and bounds. the UN about environmental damage, it could
_________.
a. Progressing very quickly
a. break the ice b. cut no ice
b. Stopped due to some legal issues
c. walk on thin ice d. be the icing on the cake
c. Broken because of negligence
d. Moving very slowly

Page No. 159

2068. Select the most appropriate option to 2072. Select the most appropriate idiom to fill in
complete the idiom in the following sentence. the blank.
I have a _______ thumb and I love gardening. Taking the summer job proved to be ____________
for Anand’s visa applications.
a. red b. yellow
a. a blessing in disguise b. come in high
c. blue d. green
c. come up d. on the contrary
2069. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
underlined idiom. 2073. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
underlined idiom in the following sentence.
Shah called Saeed a hard nut to crack, and
described him as cool, but intelligent. Dinisha visits her mother once in a blue moon.
a. Someone with good will a. Very frequently b. Every week
b. Considerate person c. Every month d. Very rarely
c. Moderate person 2074. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
given idiom.
d. Someone who is difficult to deal with
Gift of the gab
2070. Select the most appropriate idiomatic
expression that can substitute the underlined a. Very beautiful b. Attached to God
segment in the given sentence.
c. Talent for speaking d. Someone’s precious gift
He wanted to be a professional basketball player but
2075. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
given his height, luck was against him.
given idiom.
a. his principles were against him
Call it a day
b. his health was not in his favour
a. Stop working on something
c. the cards were stacked against him
b. The time at the end of the day
d. the ball was against him
c. Start working on something
2071. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
d. Start a day badly
given idiom.
2076. Select the most appropriate idiom to fill in
No one even thought that Sheila’s success would
the blank.
burst the bubble.
The imposition of lock down proved to be a
a. Change her into arrogance
________ for many students who were not prepared
b. Break the border for the examinations.
c. Suddenly end a. blessing in disguise b. piece of cake
d. Last for ever c. chip on their shoulder
d. feather in cap

Page No. 160

2077. Select the idiom that means the same as b. jumped on the bandwagon
the underlined segment in the given sentence.
c. on cloud nine d. snowed under
She forgot to apply for her internship abroad due to
2082. Select the idiom that gives the most
the ongoing marriage preparations she had to help
appropriate meaning of the underlined phrase in
with and now that opportunity is lost.
the following sentence.
a. Missing the boat b. Burning the midnight oil
Our Principal looked disappointed when no one
c. Treading on thin ice d. Beat about the bush expressed the willingness to join the trip.
2078. Select the most appropriate meaning of the a. Made a comeback b. Pulled a long face
underlined idiom.
c. Gave a single shot d. High and dry
The boss of our organisation is considered a jack of
2083. Rohit laid down his proposal, and told
all trades.
Rohit that the ball was now in his court.
a. Doing several different jobs instead of specialising
a. He had to continue the remaining time in court
in one
b. It is Rohit's responsibility to take the next action or
b. Engaged in gambling
decision
c. Knowing nothing but boasting
c. He had to play the game and win the match
d. Innocence about everything
d. The captaincy of the team was on his shoulders
2079. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
2084. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
given idiom.
given idiom.
Break a leg
To make both ends meet
a. Hurt yourself b. Wish bad luck
a. Quite worthless
c. Sprain a leg d. Wish good luck
b. To take back what you have said
2080. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
c. To live within one’s income
underlined idiom.
d. To anticipate
The employees made a noticeable hue and cry to
get their demands raised to the board of Directors. 2085. Select the most appropriate idiom that can
substitute the underlined words in the given
a. Lie lifeless b. Protest something
sentence.
c. Celebrate an event d. Participate in sports
Sharon doing the work all by herself? Seems like it is
2081. Select the most appropriate idiom that can possible, but is very unlikely to happen.
substitute the underlined words in the given
a. a bad egg b. a piece of cake
sentence.
c. pie in the sky d. bent out of shape
I know you have been really busy with your work,
but can you just give me a few minutes?
a. through thick and thin

Page No. 161

2086. Select the most appropriate idiom that can c. To support d. In consultation
substitute the underlined words in the given
2091. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
sentence.
following idiom.
I know you’re blaming me for all that has happened
At sixes and sevens
but I wasn’t at fault alone.
a. Having dispute b. In disorder
a. it is always darkest before the dawn
c. In happy mood d. Heavy rains
b. make hay while the sun shines
2092. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
c. it takes two to tango
given idiom.
d. leave no stone unturned
Midhuna was nineteen years old, too young to buy
2087. Select the most appropriate meaning of the the farm.
underlined idiom.
a. Possess anything b. Stop living
We should teach our wards not to look down upon
c. Spend money d. Own a property
anybody in human society.
2093. Select the most appropriate option that can
a. Despise somebody b. Guess on something
substitute the underlined segment in the given
c. Talk leniently d. Kneel down sentence.
2088. Select the most appropriate meaning of the You have hurt so many people. Now, it is time to get
underlined idiom. a taste of your own medicine.
Everybody was surprised to see that he fell flat even a. to be in a risky situation
after arduous efforts.
b. to be treated the way you have treated others
a. Succeed without hassles b. Fall from a height
c. to benefit from two different opportunities
c. Fail to win applause d. Win a difficult race
d. to lose control in a situation
2089. Select the most appropriate idiom that can
2094. Select the most appropriate option that can
substitute the underlined segment in the given
substitute the underlined segment in the given
sentence.
sentence.
His old car has become a financial burden on him
Stop beating around the bush and tell me what is
now.
expected out of me.
a. An apple of one’s eye b. A white elephant
a. misunderstanding the situation
c. An eyesore d. A rare bird
b. getting the conversation going
2090. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
c. revealing a secret to everyone
underlined idiom.
d. avoiding to talk about the issue
Many unavoidable situations were avoided only
because someone had our back.
a. Without help b. Within reach

Page No. 162

2095. Select the most appropriate option to SSC CPO 2024 (Idioms and phrase)
substitute the underlined segment.
2099. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
Ruby fell victim to the green eyed monster. given idiom.
a. jealousy b. love By leaps and bounds
c. hatred d. flattery a. Slowly b. Rapidly
2096. Select the idiom that gives the most c. Unknowingly d. Normally
appropriate meaning of the underlined phrase in
2100. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
the following sentence.
given idiom.
Our Principal looked disappointed when no one
Yeoman’s service
expressed the willingness to join the trip.
a. Fraudulent service
a. Made a comeback b. Pulled a long face
b. Working under a cruel master
c. Gave a single shot d. High and dry
c. Excellent work done
2097. Select the most appropriate option to
substitute the underlined segment in the given d. A thankless and tedious job
sentence.
2101. Select the most appropriate idiom for the
We have been at fours and fives in the office due to underlined part in the given sentence:
network issues.
Sohan was very much perplexed to find that his
a. At nines and tens younger brother Mohan had taken poison.
b. At sixes and sevens a. At any rate b. At logger heads
c. At eights and nines c. At his disposal d. At his wit’s end
d. At threes and fours 2102. Skating on thin ice
2098. Select the most appropriate option that can a. He was on thin ice after making a controversial
substitute the underlined segment in the given statement.
sentence.
b. They were on thin ice due to the icy conditions on
She faced a session of abuse after insisting that the road.
she was too beautiful to be liked.
c. They were on thin ice when they skated on the
a. tirade of abuse b. declamation of abuse frozen lake.
c. recitation of abuse d. recital of abuse d. She was on thin ice while trying to balance on a
tightrope.
5. Identify the most appropriate meaning of the given
idiom.

Page No. 163

2103. Bread and butter 2108. Select the most appropriate idiom that can
substitute the underlined segment in the given
a. Comfortable living b. Means of livelihood
sentence.
c. Money making d. The breakfast
Read the books of APJ Abdul Kalam, who was a
2104. Select the most appropriate meaning of the scholar.
given.
a. a dare devil
Be in seventh heaven
b. a queer fish
a. To be ignored
c. a man of straw
b. To be in a state of extreme happiness
d. a man of letters
c. To start performing better
2109. Identify the meaning of the idiom in the
d. To avoid talking about what’s important given situation.
2105.Based on the situation in the sentence, I will always stand by my friend.
select the most appropriate idiom for the
a. Support in difficult situation
underlined segment.
b. Stand next to
After the Pandemic, his business crumbled and he is
in a difficult situation. c. Work together d. Be in a queue
a. Be in a tight corner 2110. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
underlined idiom in the given sentence.
b. Give a cold shoulder
Only those having blue blood can dethrone the evil
c. Bolt from the blue
autocrat and restore equilibrium.
d. Pull the last straw
a. Bitter relations
2106. Choose the most appropriate meaning of
b. Vigilant nature
the given idiom.
c. Political ideology
At the drop of a hat
d. Aristocratic lineage
a. Eventually b. Immediately
2111. Select the phrase/idiom that will improve
c. Certainly d. Consecutively
the underlined part of the given sentence.
2107. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
After two hours of wandering in the desert, we
given idiom.
realised we were on a wild horse race.
Go down in flames
a. wild carpet rug
a. To crash and burn
b. wild jackal hunt
b. To destroy completely
c. wild goose chase
c. To fail spectacularly
d. wild shadow chase
d. To burn down completely

Page No. 164

2112. Select the most appropriate meaning of the 2116. Select the most appropriate idiom that can
given idiom. substitute the underlined segment in the given
sentence and complete the sentence correctly.
Ignoring his father’s warnings, he said, “an elephant
in the room” to his mother. It is important to take this opportunity to make a
name for yourself – beat around the bush.
a. There is an obvious problem
a. fight tooth and claw
b. Someone hiding in the room
b. bare the foot
c. The elephant got stuck in the room
c. pass with flying colours
d. Someone begins to suspect
d. strike while the iron is hot
2113. Select the most appropriate idiom that can
substitute the underlined segment in the given 2117. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
sentence. given idiom.
The players like the coach because he is honest, Gift of the gab
realistic and practical in dealing with them.
a. A talent for singing b. A talent for lying
a. far and wide b. down to earth
c. A talent for speaking
c. sick and tired d. by and large
d. A gift for a person named Gab
2114. Select the most appropriate idiom that can
2118. Select the most appropriate idiomatic
substitute the underlined segment in the given
expression that can substitute the underlined
sentence.
segment in the given sentence.
Popular cosmetics brands in India are very
He is very strict with his students but good-natured.
expensive.
a. he has a big mouth
a. take it with a pinch of salt
b. his heart is in the right place
b. cost an arm and a leg
c. his heart misses a beat
c. up in arms
d. his eyes are bigger than his stomach
d. flog a dead horse
2119. Select the most appropriate idiom to fill in
2115. Select the most appropriate idiom for the
the blank.
given situation focusing on the underlined
words. When I went to Egypt and lost my wallet and
passport, I was _____________.
I invited them to my anniversary dinner but they had
other plans, so they decided to politely decline a. rolling up my sleeves
with the implication that they may come at a later
b. working my fingers to the bone
date.
c. putting my nose to the grindstone
a. Took it with a grain of salt
d. up in a creek without a paddle
b. To take a rain check
c. To spoil a moment d. Call it a day

Page No. 165

2120. Select the most appropriate idiom to fill in 2124. Select the most appropriate idiom that can
the blank. substitute the underlined segment in the given
sentence.
John was always ________ about becoming a
millionaire without doing any hard work. I don't know which career he will choose. He delays
making strong decisions.
a. building castles in the air
a. is as clean as a whistle b. sits on the fence
b. eating like a horse
c. spills the beans d. turns a blind eye
c. having an ace up his sleeve
2125. Select the most appropriate idiom that can
d. a storm in a tea cup
substitute the underlined segment in the given
2121. Select the most appropriate meaning of the sentence.
given idiom.
We need to make sure that criminals like these get
To leave no stone unturned more from the authorities than a very mild
punishment.
a. To treat someone/something as if of no
importance a. a taste of their own medicine b. an axe to grind

b. To control a person completely c. a blessing in disguise d. a slap on the wrist

c. To win everything that is available 2126. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
underlined idiom.
d. To do everything possible to achieve something
Despite multiple obstacles, she continued with her
2122. Select the most appropriate idiom that can
endeavour, demonstrating that she has nerves of
substitute the underlined words in the given
steel.
sentence.
a. The capacity to maintain composure when
It’s Christmas and everything looks so beautiful. It
stressed
makes me believe that life is wonderful and
pleasant. b. Extraordinary beauty

a. I’m facing the music b. I’m changing my tune c. An absence of fear or anxiety

c. life is a bowl of cherries d. I’m up in the air d. Relentless determination

2123. Select the most appropriate meaning of the 2127. In question four alternatives are given for
given idiom. the underlined Idiom/Phrase in the sentence.
Choose the alternative which best expresses the
Beat around the bush.
meaning of the Idiom/Phrase.
a. To talk about something important.
In life, there will be many situations where you have
b. To go around the bush. to choose between the devil and the deep blue
sea.
c. To live around the bush.
a. To be in dilemma to choose
d. To avoid talking about what is important.
b. To be in a good condition
c. To be in the deep sea d. To choose wisely

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2128. Select the sentence that uses the given 2132. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
idiom correctly. given idiom.
Have your head in the clouds When pigs fly
a. They had their heads in the clouds by looking up a. Something that will never happen
at the sky during a meteor shower.
b. Something that will never deviate
b. The pilot had his head in the clouds while flying a
c. something that will get completed
plane.
d. Something that will never last long
c. He had his head in the clouds during an important
meeting. 2133. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
given idiom.
d. She had her head in the clouds by wearing a
cloud-shaped hat. Sacred cow
2129. Based on the situation in the sentence, a. Unquestionable b. Interrogate
select the most appropriate idiom for the
c. Hateful d. Harmful
underlined segment.
2134. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
He always takes up difficult tasks – those which
given idiom.
are beyond his capabilities.
Black sheep
a. Bite off more than you can chew
a. Disreputable b. Miscreant
b. Pull someone’s leg
c. Intelligent d. Naive
c. No pain no gain d. Miss the boat
2135. Select the most appropriate idiom for the
2130. Select the most appropriate idiom from the
underlined part in the given sentence:
options to replace the underlined segment in the
given sentence. Amar was left in a difficult situation by his
business partners.
After his business failed, he had to reduce
spending and adjust to a frugal lifestyle. a. Heart and soul b. Hard and fast
a. let the cat out of the bag c. High and dry d. Head and shoulders above
b. hit the nail on the head 2136. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
given idiom.
c. kick the bucket d. tighten his belt
Get itchy feet
2131. Select the most appropriate option that can
substitute the underlined word in the given a. Judge something primarily on appearance
idiom.
b. Join a popular trend or activity
A goose's eye view
c. Learn something by memorising it without a
a. bird’s b. hornet's c. fool's d. dog's thought to what is being learnt
d. To start to want to travel or do something different

Page No. 167

2137. Select the most appropriate meaning of the d. under the weather
given idiom.
2141. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
On thin ice given idiom.
a. On an investigating job Keep your pants on
b. On a summer vacation a. To keep calm and quiet
c. Communicating with friends b. To wear the dress neatly
d. In a risky position c. To work like a tailor
2138. Select the most appropriate idiom that can d. To make things proper
substitute the underlined segment in the given
2142. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
sentence.
given idiom.
Even after becoming bankrupt, Charlie is able to
Nip in the bud
maintain an outward show.
a. To suppress something at an early stage
a. bell the cat
b. To publicise a long-kept secret
b. cut a sorry figure
c. To complete a prolonged or unfinished work
c. bring down the house
d. To stop something from growing beyond limit
d. keep up appearances
2143. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
2139. Select the option that best explains the
given idiom.
underlined idiom in the given sentence.
From cradle to grave
A team's captain always keeps a level head, even in
the most challenging situations. a. To achieve something you needed
a. Keeps his head protected with a helmet b. Buying something very cheap or very expensive
b. Prefers to keep his head covered with a cap c. Giving directions and telling someone to follow
c. Maintains an equal number of players on the field d. During the whole span of one’s life
d. Remains calm and composed 2144. Select the most appropriate option that can
substitute the underlined segment in the given
2140. Select the most appropriate idiom that can
idiom.
substitute the underlined segment in the given
sentence. A piece of biscuit
Reena decided not to go to work today because she a. Toast b. pastry
was feeling sick.
c. cake d. tart
a. sitting on the fence
b. fit as a fiddle
c. going down in flames

Page No. 168

2145. Select the most appropriate meaning of the 2150. Select the most appropriate idiom that can
given idiom. substitute the underlined words in the given
sentence.
Chip on the shoulder
I have been living without a lot of money since I
a. Elated b. Emotional
lost my job.
c. Happy d. Offended
a. living hand to mouth b. receiving a kickback
2146. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
c. keeping my chin up
given idiom.
d. as genuine as a three-dollar bill
Spill the beans
2151. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
a. Accomplish a lot b. Tremble at possibilities
idiom in the given sentence.
c. Cornered by someone d. Reveal a secret
She’s feeling under the weather today.
2147. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
a. She’s feeling happy and energetic.
given idiom.
b. She’s feeling worried about something.
See eye to eye
c. She’s not feeling well or is a bit sick.
a. To agree with someone
d. She’s feeling adventurous and ready for a
b. To get upset with something
challenge
c. To do something pointless
2152. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
d. To ignore someone given idiom.

2148. Select the most appropriate idiom to fill in Through thick and thin
the blank.
a. Always supporting someone even if there are
She now has more than a year as problems or difficulties
minister___________.
b. Never giving up a friendship
a. under her belt b. on her thin ice
c. Sometimes thin, sometimes thick
c. in the fast lane d. down for the count
d. Never giving up on a goal
2149. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
2153. Select the phrase/idiom that will improve
given idiom.
the underlined part of the given sentence.
Bite the bullet
When our principal said she was leaving the
a. To help someone achieve their goals company, I played out the opportunity to fill the
job.
b. To eat something unpleasant
a. glided at the opportunity
c. To face a difficult situation
b. ran to the opportunity
d. To avoid a situation
c. started at the opportunity
d. jumped at the opportunity

Page No. 169

2154. Select the most appropriate option that can 2158. Choose the most appropriate meaning of
substitute the underlined word in the given the given idiom.
idiom.
Back to back
At the last hour
a. Present and discuss the details of something.
a. twelfth b. eleventh
b. Try to get something.
c. sixth d. half
c. Something follows immediately after something
2155. Select the most appropriate meaning of the else.
given idiom.
d. Do something very fast or with great energy.
The best of both worlds
2159. Select the most appropriate idiom that can
a. Everyone gets a chance substitute the underlined segment in the given
sentence.
b. Stay strong in a difficult situation
I sometimes accept excess work to please my
c. Do a perfectly good job
manager, so I take more responsibilities than one
d. Good in every way can manage.

2156. Select the most appropriate meaning of the a. burn my boats

given idiom.
b. get a taste of my own medicine
A vicious cycle
c. bite off more than I can chew
a. a situation in which one problem creates another
d. hear it straight from the horse’s mouth
one, making the original problem easy to forget.
2160. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
b. a situation in which several problems merge and
given idiom.
become one extremely complex problem.
Make waves
c. a situation in which one problem causes another
one, making the first one easy to solve. a. To have patience b. To cause difficulty
d. a situation in which one problem causes another c. To take it easy
one, making the original problem impossible to
d. To give up
solve.
2161. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
2157. Select the most appropriate idiom to fill in
given idiom.
the blank.
Spill the beans
The team always _______ to come up with unique
advertisements for all its clients. a. To have happy period of your life
a. thinks outside the box b. To be in a state of shock
b. throw caution to the winds c. To expose a secret
c. take a back seat d. To have an excuse
d. turn the tables

Page No. 170

2162. Select the most appropriate meaning of the a. To stay safe during difficulty
given idiom.
b. To keep one’s chin clean and moist
Up the ante
c. To save others during difficult times
a. Mediocre b. Increase demands
d. To stay cheerful during difficult times
c. Expensive d. Cost cutting
2167. Select the most appropriate option to
2163. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the underlined segment in the given
substitute the underlined segment in the given sentence.
sentence.
Amit is also a chip off the old block like his brother,
The Government must strive to provide a/an fair and Tandon.
square deal to the citizen of its country.
a. resembling his parents in character and
a. violent and immoral appearance
b. honest and straightforward b. talking to others tough like a stone
c. exclusive and unreal c. planning things ahead neatly
d. forward and backward d. getting ready for the future endeavours
2164. During the preparation for competitive 2168. The meaning of which of the following
exams, Meena avoided going to parties. options is ‘Good luck’?
a. steered clear of a. Break a leg b. All wet
b. cracked a joke c. Second banana d. Hang in there
c. fired a cracker 2169. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
underlined segment in the given sentence.
d. whispered a secret
I sent the agreement over for them to sign so the
2165. Select the most appropriate option to
ball is now in their court.
substitute the underlined part of the following
sentence. a. It is time for someone to deal with a problem or
make a decision, because other people have already
Mathew decided to complete the marathon to prove
done as much as they can
that he is still fit as a fiddle in his eighties.
b. An approach that uses traditional ideas that have
a. an owner of a fit horse
previously worked
b. a fit and energetic person
c. A time when after which programmes for older
c. a man of great qualities audiences may be aired on TV

d. proud and unreliable d. Better to be satisfied with what you have than risk
losing it by trying to get something better
2166. Choose the most appropriate meaning of
the underlined phrase.
He's still keeping his chin up despite all his health
problems.

Page No. 171

2170. Select the most appropriate option to d. place her in a safe supportive position
substitute the underlined part of the given
2174. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
sentence.
underlined segment in the following sentence.
All the kith and kin of my deceased landlady were
Don’t you think that the cat’s in the cradle? You
present to attend her funeral.
never make time for me.
a. secret enemies b. blood relatives
a. Busy in your work
c. office colleagues d. special students
b. Complicated relationship
2171. Select the most suitable expression that
c. Busy in minting money
can substitute the underlined part of the
sentence without any change in meaning. d. Newly married life
Planning to go for a movie just before the final-year 2175. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
examination is nothing but skating on thin ice. underlined idiom.
a. doing hard work The realtors of the new venture sold plots like hot
cakes.
b. enjoying the moment
1. Sold innovatively
c. going to hill stations
2. Sold quickly and in large numbers
d. being in a risky situation
3. Sold illegally
2172. Select the most appropriate option to
substitute the underlined segment in the given 4. Sold with great difficulty
sentence.
2176. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
Though Kalpana listened to Sheetal carefully, she given idiom.
knew that she should take it with a grain of salt.
Black and white
a. regard it as exaggerated and not completely true
1. In dispute 2. A false invention
b. move according to the trend
3. In writing 4. Doubtful
c. be do it meticulously as taking salt
2177. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
d. accept it as really useful and worthy given idiom.
2173. Select the most appropriate option to At one’s fingertips
substitute the underlined segment in the given
1. To be unaware of something
sentence.
2. To take revenge
The manager, decided at last to bring the
stenographer to book for her illegal money 3. Out of reach
transactions after trying to ignore it several times.
4. To have complete knowledge
a. bring her for a detailed investigation
b. take her into great confidence
c. make her accountable for her conduct

Page No. 172

2178. Select the most appropriate meaning of the 3. Being calculative
underlined idiom.
4. Like-minded people connect better
Teja followed his friend’s advice so now he is in
2183. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
deep water.
given idiom.
1. In deep thoughts 2. In dilemma
Put in mind
3. In trouble 4. In good position
1. To calculate 2. To remind
2179. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
3. To forget 4. To understand
given idiom.
2184. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
Blowing smoke
given idiom.
1. To tease someone relentlessly
Slip your mind
2. To hide something
1. Forget about something
3. To burn something important
2. Think about something for a short time
4. To lie to perplex others
3. Immediately think of something
2180. Select the most appropriate idiom for the
4. Can’t think of anything to say
underlined segment in the following sentence.
2185. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
The arrival of Pragati in the house brought
given idiom.
disharmony among the family members.
Lose heart
1. Tenterhooks
1. To be suspicious of your success
2. A cry in the wilderness
2. To get success by believing in yourself
3. Rift in the lute 4. Hair breadth
3. To stop believing that you can succeed
2181. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
given idiom. 4. To believe in your success
Cost an arm and a leg 2186. Select the most appropriate idiom to fill in
the blank.
1. To be moderately priced
The two brothers ___________ when their father
2. To be inexpensive
died.
3. To be very expensive
1. fell down
4. To be affordable
2. fell out
2182. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
3. got the sack
given idiom.
4. look down upon
Dog eat dog
1. Ruthlessly competitive
2. Tit for tat

Page No. 173

2187. Select the most appropriate meaning of the 2191. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
given idiom. given idiom.
On its last legs Stick to one’s guns
1. Creeping on legs 1. To become a rebel
2. Last choice 2. To shoot at
3. Slow movement 3. To become unfaithful to
4. In a bad condition 4. To remain faithful to
2188. Select the most appropriate idiomatic 2192. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
expression that can substitute the underlined given idiom.
segment in the given sentence.:
Have a bee in your bonnet
It feels like I made a promise of more than my
1. Be preoccupied or obsessed with something
ability when I promised to complete this worksheet
in one day. 2. Unable to stay at a place for long
1. beat my brain out 3. To keep worrying about yourself
2. beat the drum 4. Having a cruel intention or grudge against
someone
3. bit off more than I could chew
2193. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
4. burnt a hole in my pocket
given idiom.
2189. Select the appropriate meaning of the
Around the clock
given idiom.
1. Something that is done at night
Last resort
2. Something that is done within one hour
1. Last hotel on the way
3. Something that is time bound
2. Last ride
4. Something that goes on day and night
3. Last friend remaining
2194. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
4. Last course of action
given idiom.
2190. Choose the most appropriate meaning of
Best thing since sliced bread
the given idiom.
1. Breaking news
Ace in the hole
2. Something to be cautious about
1. A lot to do
3. Extremely good, interesting
2. On the point of
4. Rated well amongst cooks
3. A second chance to do something
4. A hidden advantage

Page No. 174

2195. Select the most appropriate meaning of the 2199. Choose the option that best describes the
underlined idiom in the following sentence. meaning of the idioms and phrases underlined in
the given sentence.
Independence Day is considered as a red-letter day
in the history of India. You can best identify the fair weather friends at the
time of adversity.
1. Regular day
1. Friends who come in good weather conditions
2. Uneventful day
2. Best friends
3. Memorable day
3. Friends who bring good rain
4. Unimportant day
4. Friend only at the time of prosperity
2196. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
underlined idiom. 2200. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
underlined idiom in the following sentence.
Vishnu and Vignesh are always like two peas in a
pod. I can’t begin to talk on this situation right now; I am
still wrapping my head around it.
1. Very similar to each other
1. Ignoring something completely
2. Smart and intelligent
2. Understanding something complicated
3. Happy and compassionate
3. Comparing two things that can’t be compared
4. Good in every way
4. Revealing a secret nobody knows
2197. My entire family left me in the lurch when I
went to them after I divorced my husband. 2201. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
given idiom.
1. refused to help me in my distress
A bolt from the blue
2. blamed only me for my failure
1. A sudden and unexpected event
3. scorned me for committing mistakes
2. Thunder and rain in a strom
4. attempted to harass me
3. Raining heavily
2198. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
underlined idiom. 4. A spontaneous but expected event
Prakash could not make up his mind about what to 2202. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
do with the project. given idiom.
1. Abandon Walk a tightrope
2. Think 1. To walk on a narrow road
3. Abide 2. To act carefully in a difficult situation
4. Decide 3. To be tensed about something
4. To try and balance yourself

Page No. 175

2203. Select the most appropriate meaning of the 3. An activity you do to improve your culinary skills
given idiom.
4. An activity you do to get money for basic needs
To be at daggers drawn
2208. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
1. To be about to collapse given idiom.
2. Ready to fight Spill the beans
3. Under suspicion 4. To be under control 1. To help someone extraordinarily
2204. Select the most appropriate meaning of the 2. To leak a secret
given idiom.
3. The act of loving beans
To cost an arm and a leg
4. Cook the beans carefully
1. Someone is badly hurt
2209. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
2. Something is very expensive underlined idiom in the given sentence.
3. Someone does not have money to buy something When I got an opportunity to start a new business,
Ravikanth queered my pitch.
4. Someone has borne losses
1. Supported me with money
2205. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
underlined idiom. 2. Helped me by standing beside me
The United Nations is working to eliminate the 3. Ruined my plan 4. Advised me
vicious cycle of poverty.
2210. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
1. The barrier of poverty given idiom.
2. One problem causes other Fish out of water
3. Loophole of something 1. To be out of place
4. Strength of something 2. No knowledge of marine life
2206. Select the most appropriate meaning of the 3. To die soon
given idiom.
4. Not good at swimming
Bag and baggage
2211. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
1. At the service 2. By force given idiom.
3. With all goods 4. Fair and honest Bells and whistles
2207. Select the most appropriate meaning of the 1. To take on a difficult task
given idiom.
2. An innovative development
bread and butter
3. At a serious disadvantage
1. An activity you do to get help others
4. Attractive but unnecessary features added to
2. An activity you do with determination products

Page No. 176

2212. Select the most appropriate meaning of the 2217. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
given idiom. given idiom.
Sell like hot cakes To read between the lines
1. Extremely hot and humid 1. To grasp the hidden meaning
2. Not bothering about money 2. To read without concentration
3. Selling out quickly 4. Become very famous 3. To read aloud 4. To whisper
2213. Which of the following idioms means 2218. Select the most appropriate option to
‘going to sleep’? substitute the underlined segment in the
following sentence.
1. Keep an ear to the ground
A gift from my teacher on the eve of the new year
2. Run around in circles
was a complete surprise.
3. Break new grounds 4. Hit the sack
1. like a cat on hot bricks 2. a bolt from the blue
2214. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
3. like striking one’s colours
given idiom.
4. spilling of beans
Where the shoe pinches
2219. Select the appropriate option that can
1. Unknown paths 2. Difficult roads
substitute the underlined phrase in the following
3. Where the difficulty lies 4. Where the shoe hurts sentence.

2215. Select the most appropriate idiom to fill in Even though she’s a celebrity, she doesn’t draw
the blank. any attention towards herself.

Mala ____________ by cheating on the exam to 1. is hard to come by 2. keeps a low profile
win her bet with Priya.
3. keeps hot under the collar
1. get the sack 2. look down upon
4. keeps up with the Joneses
3. hit below the belt 4. fell out
2220. Select the sentence which gives the most
2216. Select the most appropriate option that can appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
substitute the underlined segment in the given
A piece of cake
sentence.
1. Despite the heavy rain, they managed to have a
The player was declared fit and in excellent health
successful outdoor event.
to play the final matches.
2. The restaurant was crowded, but they found a
1. right as rain 2. left out in cold
table without any difficulty.
3. on cloud nine 4. up in the arms
3. The puzzle was so challenging that it took hours
for Sam to solve it.
4. After months of practice, Emily performed her
piano piece flawlessly during the concert.

Page No. 177

2221. Select the most appropriate meaning of the 3. Rachit had some important work and so he
given idiom. cancelled the show tickets for everyone.
Under the weather 4. You are here just because you have recognised
your hidden potential.
1. To feel secure 2. To enjoy the weather
2226. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
3. To feel unwell
underlined idiom.
4. To work against the weather
The technicians who were repairing the broken
2222. Select the most appropriate meaning of the elevator called it a day.
given idiom.
1. Felt unhappy
A wild goose chase
2. Shouted with anger
1. Ideal seeking 2. Fruitless search
3. Stopped to take a short break
3. Fruitful search 4. On a hunt
4. Stopped work for the day
2223. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
2227. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
given idiom.
underlined idiom in the following sentence.
An old head on young shoulders
Manish told Rounak time and again of the ill
1. A young person who looks old. consequences of his habit of being late to the
college.
2. A young person who is lazy.
1. Repeatedly
3. A person who is slow at understanding things.
2. Hardly ever
4. A young person who acts or speaks like an older
person. 3. At intervals

2224. Select the most appropriate meaning of the 4. Not often

underlined idiom in the given sentence.
2228. Select the most appropriate idiom to fill the
He got medals time after time by following the blank in the given situation.
instructions of his mentor.
They were waiting for their family members who
1. Repeatedly 2. Twice were returning from a pilgrimage. Therefore, they
were _______________ on the platform.
3. Rarely 4. Once
1. running behind time
2225. Select the sentence that brings out the
most appropriate meaning of the idiom ‘Dog in 2. playing a joke
the manger’.
3. pacing up and down
1. Mohit was so loyal and committed to his company
4. rolling up their sleeves
that he rejected lucrative offers from different
companies.
2. To prove this is not a trap, I want to check the
credibility of your plan.

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2229. Select the most appropriate idiom to 2233. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
complete the given sentence. given idiom.
With the increasing market prices and stagnant Gift of the gab
salaries, he is _________.
1. Witty 2. Humorous
1. taking a break 2. feeling the pinch
3. Talent for speaking 4. Talent for singing
3. beating the rap 4. getting it off his chest
2234. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
2230. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
given idiom.
Out of the frying pan and into the fire
Costing an arm and a leg
1. Things getting intense by the hour
1. Very attractive and cheap
2. Being a horrible cook
2. Very rough and tough
3. Being with someone through good times as well
3. Very costly and luxurious as bad times
4. Very entertaining and jovial 4. Things going from bad to worse
2231. Select the most appropriate meaning of the 2235. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
given idiom. given idiom.
Going through a sticky patch To throw dust in one’s eyes
1. To experience a bad period in life 1. To talk in an abusive language
2. Try to paste something unsuccessfully 2. To mislead someone by tricks
3. To walk on a muddy road 3. To make someone blind forever
4. To feel sad 4. To hit someone with stone
2232. Select the most appropriate meaning of the 2236. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
given idiom. underlined idiom in the given sentence.
A sting in the tail Every piece of furniture in her house is in apple-pie
order.
1. An unexpected, typically unpleasant or
problematic end to something 1. Very neatly arranged
2. Something which seems bad at first but contains a 2. Painted in light colours
pleasant part at the end
3. Very delicately arranged
3. To initiate a situation that is very complicated or
4. Kept in a disorganised way
problematic
4. A situation in which a large group has to do
something to satisfy a small group

Page No. 179

2237. Based on the situation in the sentence,
select the most appropriate idiom.
After many years of rivalry, the two schools
decided to _______ and participate in a National
Event together.
1. bell the cat
2. bury the hatchet
3. go cold turkey
4. be in the doldrums
2238. Choose the option that best describes the
meaning of the idioms and phrases underlined in
the given sentence.
A jack of all trades cannot survive in the world of
specialisation.
1. A good communicator
2. A person who can do many things but is not an
expert in any
3. An expert of many jobs
4. A businessman

Page No. 180

SSC CGL 2024 Pre Idioms 4. Black sheep

1. To have bigger fish to fry 5. On the ball

1. To have an interest in cooking 1. Unaware of any changes or developments and

lazy to react to them
2. To know different kinds of fishing techniques
2. Aware of any changes or developments but
3. To take calculated risks
slow to react to them
4. To have bigger things to take care of than the
3. Aware of any changes or developments and
menial task at hand
quick to react to them
2. Break a leg
4. Aware of any changes or developments but
1. Give advice on maintaining physical health.
doing nothing
2. Encourage someone to engage in risky
6. I'm _______________ about whether to
activities. accept the job offer or continue freelancing.

3. Suggest taking a short break during work. Both options have their advantages.

4. Wish someone good luck before a performance 1. on the fence

3. Fatima was at her wits’ end trying to decide 2. cutting corners

on a serene place for spending the holidays in. 3. left out in cold

1. So worried, confused or annoyed that she does 4. up in arms

not know what to do next
7. What does the idiom ‘Bite the bullet’ mean?
2. So worried, confused or annoyed that she
1. Enjoy a delicious meal
became unconscious
2. Face a difficult situation with courage
3. So calm and composed that she knows what to
3. Avoid confrontation
do next
4. Give someone a piece of advice
4. So worried, confused or annoyed that she
insulted others for no reason 8. Care a hang

4. Which of the following idioms means ‘to 1. Hanging clothes to dry

steal from a shop’? 2. Putting an outfit on a hanger
1. Golden opportunity 3. Caring too much
2. Green thumb 4. Showing no interest
3. Five-finger discount

Page No. 181

9. The doctors tried very hard to save his 4. A fair trade
mother but they were unsuccessful. 14. Nobody’s fool
1. faced the music 1. Not easily deceived
2. drew the line 2. The wisest person
3. moved heaven and earth 3. A complete fool
4. ran like clockwork
4. All are fools
10. Hit the nail on the head 15. The renowned publisher decided to
1. They are experiencing a headache. withdraw a book from the market. No one was
interested in the book as the arguments
2. They have accurately identified or explained
presented were ____________.
something.
1. high and mighty
3. They're uncertain about a decision.
2. out of the woods
4. They hit a nail with a hammer.
3. beside the mark
11. To read between the lines
4. under the rose
1. To underline some words
16. In my new office, all employees were
2. To read differently
different, so I felt like a fish out of water.
3. To read aloud to public
1. Uncomfortable
4. To understand more than what the words
2. Homeless
suggest
3. Frustrated
12. Jump the gun
4. Disappointed
1. To start all over again
17. Anand personally believes in the motto,
2. Using a gun for sports
“When life gives you lemons, make
3. To stop a process
lemonade.”
4. To do something too soon and too quickly
1. Earn the maximum out of business
13. A dime a dozen
2. Nourish health
1. Variety of amenities
3. Enjoy the most when the season is favourable
2. Something common and not special
4. Make the best out of difficult situations
3. Very wealthy

Page No. 182

18. Turned a deaf ear to 2. In all the happy moments, personally spending
most of her time
1. Disregarded
3. Under all conditions, no matter how challenging
2. At intervals
or difficult
3. By any means
4. In the moments when Monica couldn’t complete
4. Rebuked
some simple tasks
19. A bad patch
23. In those days, we did not expect luxuries;
1. A path that is untravelled we were thankful if we could keep the wolf

2. A period of time when a person faces lots of from the door.

troubles 1. Avoid starvation 2. Wallow in poverty

3. A person who takes a difficult path 3. Relish food

4. A dangerous road to walk on 4. Encourage starvation

20. All his friends admired him because he 24. To bring to light
was a straight shooter.
1. To engage in conversation
1. Excellent shooter
2. To lighten
2. Complicated and confusing person
3. To disclose 4. To disengage
3. Miserly and pessimistic individual
25. Rina pulled a long face since her husband
4. A thoroughly upright straightforward person had not bought her a diamond necklace on

21. My uncle lives in New York, so I only see their anniversary.

him once in a blue moon. 1. To be euphoric 2. To be ecstatic

1. Not very often 3. To look saddened

2. Monthly 4. To be electrified

3. Weekly 4. Very often 26. Easy does it

22. Radhika stood by Monica’s side through 1. Used to tell someone to do something rarely
thick and thin.
2. Used to tell someone to do something violently
1. Under easy situations wherein she could
3. Used to tell someone to do something slowly
ensure Monica’s safety and security
and carefully

4. Used to tell someone to do something horridly

Page No. 183

27. Cut corners 32. Start from scratch

1. Complete a work 1. To start or create something from the very

beginning
2. Do something in an inexpensive and easy way
2. To address an issue
3. Find a suitable place
3. To develop something out of waste material
4. Clear a space
4. To point out something wrong
28. I thought Sadhna would always stick by
me, but when I got into trouble, she turned out 33. I had heard of henpecked husbands and
to be a/an ___________. now, I felt that I saw one.

1. hard nut to crack 1. Controlling husband

2. open secret 2. Bossy husbands

3. fair-weather friend 3. Oppressed husband

4. white elephant 4. Dominating husbands

29. His PhD degree seems to be (Penelope’s 34. Roshan, it’s time for you to give your
web). speech to the whole school, wishing you luck
to do well.
1. An important task
1. down in the dumps
2. A difficult task
2. break a leg
3. A secret task
3. high five 4. hands down
4. An endless task
35. At a low ebb
30. Creature of habit
1. In a depressed or weak state
1. A mean person 2. A bad habit
2. In a happy state
3. A faithful dog
3. In a critical moment
4. One who does same thing in the same way
4. In an unemployed mode
31. Hit the roof
36. Off and on
1. To destruct a building
1. Now and then
2. To become very angry
2. Know something thoroughly
3. To jump high
3. Remind 4. Object to
4. To play joyfully

Page No. 184

37. Left out in the cold 3. A rash of something

1. To go underground 4. A rap over the knuckles

2. To be in hiding 42. Instead of confusing others, let us call a

spade a spade in front of the audience.
3. To be ignored
1. Pretend superiority
4. To be extremely negative
2. Remain silent
38. Break the ice
3. Speak truthfully
1. Nervousness before a performance
4. Be at strife
2. Ill-feeling carried by a person over a period of
time 43. Rahul won the extempore competition. He
is lucky to be blessed with the gift of the gab.
3. Respect for someone’s achievements
1. An honest person
4. To say or do something that makes people feel
more relaxed, especially at the beginning of a 2. A big surprise
meeting, party 3. A lucky person
39. Sejal visits the nearby temple off and on. 4. A talent for speaking
1. Periodically 44. After months of dedication and effort, I
2. Constantly finally completed the marathon. I can really
_______________ for this accomplishment.
3. Continuously
1. eat like a horse
4. Regularly
2. up a creek without a paddle
40. This year’s budget is unlikely to pass as
law since the president’s proposed budgets 3. blow hot and cold
typically face a jaundiced eye but this one has 4. pat myself on the back
gotten even more scepticism.
45. The leader of the Legislative Assembly
1. Jealousy won the hearts of the members through his
2. Confidence maiden speech during the session in state
council.
3. Resentment 4. Good will
1. final speech
41. A time when money might unexpectedly be
needed 2. closure speech

1. A rainy day 2. A raw deal 3. first speech 4. logical speech

Page No. 185

46. Leela was in class when the big fight 3. A large part of a problem which is really
happened. So, if you want to know the details, noticeable
You should ask her, you will get the truth
4. A small, noticeable part of a problem, the total
given by somebody who is directly involved
size of which is really much greater
and therefore likely to be accurate.
50. Bincy’s mother kept her cards close to her
1. with kid gloves
chest.
2. shooting off the cuff
1. Decided to show more affection
3. calling a spade a spade
2. Informed that all the cards must be kept safe
4. straight from the horse’s mouth
3. Kept her purse and money by herself
47. Due to her impoverished state, most of her
4. Kept her plans and thoughts hidden
relatives treated her with contempt.
51. Lucy’s conceited conduct with her
1. Came in handy
colleagues has left her high and dry.
2. Turned up their nose at her
1. Helpless
3. Turned the corner at her
2. Superseding
4. Gave a wide space to her
3. Impoverished
48. Let the dust settle
4. Surrounded by people
1. To make use of a situation

2. Wait for the other person to make a move

3. To make a space tidy

4. To wait for a situation to become clear or

certain

49. The company understood that these small

protests of employees regarding low wages
were just the tip of the iceberg.

1. A small, noticeable part of a problem, the total

size of which is non-existent

2. A small, noticeable part of a problem, the total

size of which is solvable

Page No. 186

Idioms Asked in SSC MTS 2024 3. To finish running before the end point

1. A piece of cake 4. To do something incorrectly or erroneous in

haste
1. A slice of cake for eating
6. Bheem has been shown in the popular culture
2. Easy to do or achieve
as someone who eats in large quantity.
3. A cake which is sold as a piece
1. eats humble pie
4. A cake that broke into pieces
2. eats like a horse
2. She is someone who always discourages
3. eats like a bird
our enthusiasm; therefore, we have decided to
keep our distance from her. 4. chews the fat

1. a nine days' wonder 7. Everyone says that waking up early in the

morning is beneficial for our health and overall
2. a fish out of water
well-being. But it is easier said than done.
3. a wet blanket
1. a life filled with excitement
4. a cash cow
2. a step towards better health
3. When pigs fly
3. to start performing better than before
1. Something unplanned
4. not as easy as it seems to be
2. Something terrible
8. Having known to the facts, the manager
3. Something that spoils relationships
disregarded the arguments of the customer.
4. Something that will never happen
1. Turned a deaf ear
4. He gnashed his teeth at his son's actions.
2. Bite the Bullet
1. expressed disappointment
3. Turned out 4. Turned against
2. expressed rage
9. The comedian's jokes were so funny that the
3. expressed sadness audience was laughing uncontrollably.

4. expressed joy 1. on the ball

5. Run errands 2. as easy as pie

1. To go out to buy or do something 3. in stitches

2. To participate in a race through unfair means 4. in bits and pieces

Page No. 187

10.Knuckle down 3. To take revenge

1. To crush someone to the extent that they 4. To be in a difficult situation

cannot get up 15.Sushant looked blue in the face after the
2. To start working or studying hard marathon.

3. To engage in street fighting 1. happy

4. To make others do their share of hard work 2. sad

using power 3. exhausted
11.I cannot call him directly as I have lost his 4. good
support.
16.Like a bat out of hell
1. am out of favour with him
1. Very fast and wildly
2. am in my own light
2. In a bad situation
3. am quite at sea with him
3. Defeated
4. am in character
4. Impossible
12.There are several people who find themselves
17.at top of your lungs
a dominating person in a group
1. extremely loudly 2. extremely silly
1. A bone of contention
3. pretend superiority 4. exhausted
2. A man of his words
18.Caught in a time warp
3. Cock of the walk
1. To avoid talking about what’s important
4. A white elephant
2. To remain unchanged from a time in the past
13.Brought to light
3. To make extra effort
1. To seem likely
4. To be extremely happy
2. To burn
19.What is the correct substitution for the word
3. In favour of
‘screw’ in the idiom ‘Hit the screw on the head’?
4. To disclose
1. Bolt
14.A dime a dozen
2. Crew
1. Very common
3. Nail 4. Tack
2. Very rare

Page No. 188

20.Getting a sudden promotion and increment in 24.Sarvana failed in the examination last week
my current profile was like _________. and is in extreme depression these days.

1. a bolt from the blue 1. In the red

2. a fish out of water 2. In cold blood

3. a ballpark figure 3. In the doldrums

4. a foul play 4. In the lurch

21.During the interview, the candidate was 25.'Hold someone's feet to the fire’
challenged to provide chapter and ______ on his 1. Agree upon a shared venture with full
proposed plan. conviction
1. verse 2. Take big risks without knowing the
2. Page consequences

3. Lines 3. Think over a new proposal

4. cover 4. Insist that someone fulfil their promises or

obligations
22.He thinks his new plan will undoubtedly
produce the desired result . 26.Recent research says that most of our cottage
industries lack finance. Thus, they are
1. bear fruit
____________.
2. go suck a lemon
1. taking somebody for a ride
3. sour grapes
2. thrown out of gear
4. go pear-shaped
3. worn and torn
23.After spending hours working non-stop on the
4. under a cloud
project, the team decided to___________ and go
home. 27.You cannot _________________ before
replicating your successes and achievements
1. run out of steam
multiple times; otherwise, people will deem your
2. take it easy
success a stroke of dumb luck.
3. hit the books
1. play devil's advocate
4. call it a day
2. sit on the fence

3. cut to the chase 4. rest on your laurels

Page No. 189

28.We hear the judges from their ________ that 1. changing hands
only CNG buses should run in Delhi. 2. tipping our hands
1. melting pot 3. getting out of hand
2. ivory tower 4. a show of hands
3. look sharp 34.It was all _________________. He did not
4. Square meal really mean what he said.

29.We talked over the matter for two hours; 1. tongue in cheek
unfortunately, we could not reach a decision. 2. blue in the face
1. Argued 2. Quarrelled 3. tuck in
3. Debated 4. Discussed 4. a storm in a tea cup
30.A blue-eyed boy 35.My old car was pressed into service as an
1. an unperceived observer 2. a miser emergency vehicle for my ailing grandmother.

3. an unwelcome intruder 4. one who is favourite 1. Cared for by old people

31.Hornet's nest 2. Asking for special maintenance

1. A difficult task 3. To use for a particular purpose when a special

need occurs.
2. A bee's nest
4. Used to take someone to the hospital
3. A troublesome or hazardous situation
36.On the back foot
4. A house built with great difficulty
1. In a relaxed state
32.His sudden departure left us in a difficult
situation; it was like he suddenly took away 2.Situated farther away
important support from us. 3.At a disadvantage
1. pulled the rug out 4.In a hurry
2. hit the nail on the head 37.Skeleton in the cupboard
3. got his act together 4. hit the sack 1. An interesting and thoughtful fact
33.We were asked to vote for the candidates by 2. A famous and hidden fact
raising our hands to indicate voting for or
3. A popular and known fact
against a proposition.
4. An embarrassing and hidden fact

Page No. 190

38.Mary appeared for the test. She was waiting 1. To roll on ice

anxiously for the test result. 2. To seem unfavourable

1. a piece of cake 3. To give an approving expression

2. hitting the nail on the head 4. To cry bitterly

3. on pins and needles 43.After the long and tedious project, Sarah felt

4. jumping through hoops like she was at the limit of her patience.

39.Despite the difficulties, Sarah started her 1. end of her rope

business with great energy and hard work, and 2. tip of the iceberg
performed remarkably well in the industry.
3. crossroads
1. hit the ground running
4. finishing line
2. hit the hay
44.The minister was in partnership with the queen
3. spilled the beans in poisoning the King.
4. let sleeping dogs lie 1. in cahoots
40.The company was rapidly deteriorating when 2. run amok
the chairman and some top officials were accused
3. in the blues
of fraud.
4. at one's beck and call
1. head over heels
45.Dig up dirt
2. hell in a handbasket
1. To uncover negative information about
3. hitting the sack
someone or something.
4. holding your horses
2. Find and disclose evidence
41.We often go camping, but I have never been to
3. Enquire about a missing person
that particular part of town or country before.
4. Hide and protect vital evidence
1. neck of the woods
46.My hands are full
2. knock on wood
1. To dislike someone 2. To be very busy
3. get it in the neck
3. To panic
4. risk one's neck
4. To go directly towards something
42.To look black

Page No. 191

47.Throw in the towel

1. To prepare to fight

2. To cause an activity or process to continue

3. To take responsibility for a situation while

another person is temporarily absent

4. To give up or surrender

48.The interns explained the whole issue to the

coordinator in a nutshell.

1. in a secret way

2. in a brief manner

3. in an uncertain way

4. in a discouraging manner

49.Pay off old scores

1. To clear one's debt

2. To be successful

3. To have one's revenge

4. To score good marks

50.Pull someone’s leg

1. To avert a great danger

2. To physically pull the legs of a person

3. To take a situation seriously or earnestly

4. To tease or play a joke on someone

Page No. 192

Idioms Asked in STENO 2024 5. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
1.Choose the most appropriate meaning of the underlined idiom in the given sentence.
given idiom. He goes hard with one and all.
To get wind of A). To remain neutral
A). To get into difficulty B). To be difficult
B). To hear a piece of information that someone C). To be unreliable
was trying to keep secret D). To be busy over trifles
C). To recover from something 6. Select the most appropriate idiom that can
D). To escape so that you don't have to pay substitute the underlined segment in the given
2. Read the sentence carefully and select the sentence.
most suitable idiom to fill in the blank. Unless sales improve next month, the company
Extreme inflation in the country has led to a hike will be in a critical position in which failure
in the price of day-to-day commodity. It has made seems imminent.
it difficult to __________. A). a damp squib
A). costs an arm and a leg B). up against the wall
B). a blessing in disguise C). a mare's nest
C). keep body and soul together D). hitting the sack
D). break a leg 7. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
3. Identify the meaning of the idiom used in given idiom.
the following sentence. A bird's eye view
I am feeling a bit under the weather. A). A clear impression of what is happening
A). feeling angry B). feeling slightly ill B). To move or rise into sight, especially from a
C). feeling energetic D). feeling lazy and bored distance
4. Select the most appropriate meaning of the C). To hold a negative or pessimistic opinion on
underlined idiom. something
Our neighbour told my brother to keep an eye on D). A limited understanding of something
their pet dog in their absence. 8.Select the most appropriate meaning of the
A). To ignore something or someone given idiom.
B). To look after something or someone Diamond in the rough
C). To wait for something that is disturbing A). Unpolished diamonds
D). To accomplish something too ambitious B). An industry of star-struck actors
C). An unsophisticated person with potential
D). A top model

Page No. 193

9. Select the most appropriate meaning of the Though the speaker used flowery expressions to
given idiom. convince the audience, they were intelligent
Your guess is as good as mine enough to find out his ulterior intentions.
A). To guess an incredible idea A). to read between the lines
B). To have no idea of the answer B). to be under somebody’s thumb
C). To predict a disaster C). to not judge a book by its cover
D). To be superstitious D). to cast pearls before swine
10. Select the most appropriate meaning of the 14.Select the most appropriate meaning of the
given idiom. given idiom.
Weal and woe A storm in a teacup
A). Hot and cold A). Unnecessary anger or worry
B). Simplicity and complexity B). An easy and pleasant job
C). Early and late D). Joy and sorrow C). More than expected or required
11.Select the phrase/idiom that will improve D). A hidden advantage
the underlined part of the given sentence. 15.Select the most appropriate meaning of the
Our defence minister has shown his silver will by given idiom.
introducing this scheme. Nipped in the bud
A). diamond will B). iron will A). To stop something immediately so that it does
C). golden will D). stony will not become a worse problem
12. Select the most appropriate meaning of the B). To remove unnecessary items
given idiom. C). Very promising at a young age
Loose cannon D). To cut the bud
A). Someone who is well known and respected in so that it does not become a worse problem
society 16. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
B). Someone who is enthusiastic and very eager underlined idiom.
to take responsibilities The sergeant ordered the soldiers to be armed to
C). Someone who is quiet and reserved in social the teeth as he expected it to be a tough fight.
situations A). Active without any goals
D). Someone who is unpredictable and liable to B). Separated from the worthless
cause problems C). Working in a great hurry
13.Select the most appropriate idiom that can D). Well-equipped or prepared
substitute the underlined segment in the given
sentence.

Page No. 194

17. Select the most appropriate meaning of the B). to be mistaken
given idiom. C). to be helpful
To flog a dead horse D). to be restless
A). To waste one’s energy on a lost cause 22.Select the most appropriate meaning of the
B). To escape from the situation given idiom.
C). To achieve something easily Turned a deaf ear
D). To remain valid A). To defeat
18.Select the most appropriate meaning of the B). To disregard
given idiom. C). Trying to hear from the deafened ear
At the eleventh hour D). To depend on
A). At the present time 23.Select the most appropriate meaning of the
B). At the distance given idiom.
C). At the break of the day On the ball
D). At the last possible moment A). To not understand a situation well
19.Select the most appropriate meaning of the B). To be unaware of any changes happening
underlined idiom. around
The winner’s performance was head and C). To be inattentive
shoulders above all other participants' in the D). To be aware of any changes or developments
dance competition. and quick to react to them
A). Caught between two alternatives 24.Select the most appropriate meaning of the
B). Worse than others given idiom.
C). Well informed of current trends Made his mark
D). Much better than others A). To make a colourful exit
20.Select the phrase/idiom that will improve B). To take a stand
the underlined part of the given sentence. C). To fail in the task
I do not pay heed to walking excuses of the D). To distinguish himself
students. 25.Select the most appropriate meaning of the
A). lame excuses B). deaf excuses following idiom.
C). sleeping excuses D). blind excuses Milk of human kindness
21.Select the most appropriate meaning of the A). Compassion
given idiom. B). Bravery
All eyes and ears C). Victory
A). to be attentive D). Luck

Page No. 195

26.Select the most appropriate meaning of the Today's managers’ meeting has given me a lot to
underlined idiom. think about as I decide whether or not to stay
It was just an action in the nick of time that with this company.
prepared all of us for further arrangements. A). bird’s eye view
A). Just in time B). belle of the ball
B). Delayed as expected C). roll with the punches
C). Unnatural happenings D). Forceful labour D). food for thought
27.Select the most appropriate meaning of the 31. Substitute the underlined word-segment
given idiom. with the most appropriate idiom.
To have sticky fingers Lack of funds is the main obstacle for the
A). To punish for a crime company’s growth.
B). To have a tendency to steal A). storm in the teacup
C). To remain joyful in a difficult situation B). odds and ends
D). To be suspicious C). stumbling block
28. Select the most appropriate meaning of the D). uphill battle
given idiom. 32.Select the most appropriate meaning of the
Call it a day given idiom.
A). To reach the destination Get your act together
B). To stop worrying over something A). Behave in a rude way
C). To decide to stop doing something B). Write a letter
D). To avoid meeting someone C). Speak properly
29.Select the most appropriate meaning of the D). Get organised and work efficiently
underlined idiom. 33. Select the most appropriate meaning of the
Meera wanted to prove to those around her that underlined idiom.
she was not a fair-weather friend. Ron always blows his own trumpet by
A). Helping and caring companion mentioning his academic achievements.
B). Friend for all situations A). To ignore someone in the presence of others
C). Unreliable friend in difficult times B). To talk proudly about one’s success
D). Reliable friend in tough times C). To blow air into an instrument
30.Select the most appropriate idiomatic D). To save one’s money with great effort using
expression that can substitute the underlined different means
segment in the given sentence.

Page No. 196

CDS Idioms PYQs 4.To waste time dealing with enemies and
problems that do not exist
1. A watched pot never boils
6. I always preferred to study Physics and
1.Surveillance destroys creativity Mathematics, now choosing Economics and
2.To experience failure due to over eagerness Literature for further studies is another kettle of
fish.
3.To have no chance of achieving something
1. Completely different matter
4.Desperate anticipation makes time drag on
2. Slightly different matter
2. Look to your laurels
3. Completely difficult matter
1.To make an extra effort to secure one's
position 4. Doing things in a hurry

2.To look suitable for a particular situation 7. He criticised the participants for sitting on the
fence and not contributing in finalising the report.
3.To guard one's trophies
1. Not following the rules
4.To praise oneself
2. Taking sides
3. Play devil's advocate
3. Not taking a decision
1.To try to defeat someone by tricking them
4. Showing no respect to the Chair
2.To perform with a lot of skills
8. He strained every nerve to understand the
3.To delay doing something discourse on Philosophy.

4.To pretend to be against an idea in order to 1. Tried hard 2. Criticized

discuss it more carefully 3. Tried half heartedly 4. Raised questions

4. Be in the same boat 9. When it comes to using technology, she is

completely at sea.
1.To say two things in the same breath
1. Relaxed 2. Confused
2.To be in the same unpleasant situation
3. Comfortable 4. Prepared
3.To do something that is dangerous
10. He is not a great scholar but he has the gift
4.To pretend to be something that you are not
of the gab.
5. Tilt at windmills
1. Ability to write creatively
1.To be young and inexperienced
2. Ability to read fluently
2.To celebrate good news
3. Ability to convince
3.To blow hot air
4. Ability to speak confidently

Page No. 197

11. This car belonged to Ravi, but recently it 16. Be in eclipse
changed hands.
1. Less successful 2. Feeling happy
1. Change of ownership 2. Change of driver
3. Very successful 4. Being defeated
3. Change of mechanic 4. Change of machinery
17. Ways and means
12. He turned down the new assignment; he felt
that he already had too many irons in the fire. 1. A technique

1. Having involvement in illegal activities 2. Methods of achieving something

2. Having problems in completing tasks 3. Norms and regulations of doing something

3. Having financial hurdles 4. Improving one's way of doing

4. Having multiple tasks to complete 18. Big ticket

13. Something should be done to stop the brain 1. Very less 2. Very costly
drain of Indian scientists to other countries. 3. Very easy 4. Not much
1. Movement of professionals to another country 19. Bolt from the blue
for higher studies
1. An event or piece of news which is
2. Movement of professionals to another country unexpected
for better prospect
2. Desirable event or news
3. Movement of professionals to another country
for security 3. An event which takes place as planned

4. Movement of professionals to another country 4. News which has been long expected, but
for excursion arrives late.

14. I just need to take rest and then I'll be as 20. Be a law unto yourself
right as rain.
1. Behave unconventional and unpredictable
1. To be in good mental and physical state
2. Abide by law and order
2. To be physically active
3. Ask others to follow the law
3. To be able to recall the past events
4. Create law and order for others
4. To be able to work for long-hours
21. Spiff up
15. It is all Greek to me.
1. To make oneself look neat
1. Something which I don't believe
2. To make oneself look untidy
2. Something which I don't accept
3. To make oneself look arrogant
3. Something which I don't recognize
4. To appear on the stage as a baboon
4. Something which I don't understand
Page No. 198
22. Up in arms 1. A person or thing that appears threatening but
is ineffectual
1. Very happy
2. To threaten someone but do no harm
2. Very satisfied
3. Environmental protection paper work
3. Very angry 4. Feeling fine
4. To speak to people in a roaring voice
23. Run wild
29. Penny-wise and pound-foolish
1. To run like a wild animal
1. Wise to spend each penny carefully
2. To treat anyone like a wild creature
2. Careful about small amounts but careless
3. To feel like a wild animal about large amounts
4. To behave without any control 3. People who don't understand the importance
24. Wind down of each penny

1. To relax after a period of activity 4. Careful about large amounts but careless
about small amounts
2. To act furiously after a period of silence
30. Pin back your ears
3. To speak out the truth to people
1. To listen carefully to something
4. To act on the ground
2. Person or organisation that pins important
25. Mellow out issues

1. To feel bad about other's enjoyment 3. To keep yourself away from hearing bad stuff

2. To like and dislike people concurrently 4. To clean your ears with a pin

3. To enjoy oneself without doing much 31. Turncoat

4. To work hard and doing much work 1. Expert at altering coats

26. Forty winks 2. Someone who deserts one group to join

another
1. Winking forty times 2. Sleep disorders
3. A truly dishonest person
3. Long sleeping hours
4. Going round and round in a court of law
4. A short sleep during the day
32. Say your piece
27. Life in the raw
1. Speak but don't listen
1. Life in its natural, unembellished state
2. Speak in a talkative manner
2. Life at its easiest
3. Make your argument piece by piece
3. Life that is complex 4. A daredevil's life
4. Express your opinion
28. A paper tiger
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33. Top-notch 38. Neither fish nor fowl

1. The highest marking on a tree or a building 1. Difficult to describe or classify

2. Person or organization that attracts only the 2. Neither this or that

top
3. Strict rules and regulations
3. Of highest possible quality
4. Feel awkward because of unfamiliarity
4. Person of integrity
39. Elephant in the room
34. Under the table
1. The important topic
1. Work under difficult circumstances
2. The unavoidable mind-set
2. Working undercover
3. The obvious problem that is being avoided
3. Working under furniture
4. The prized possession in the room
4. Making or receiving payments surreptitiously
40. The ship has sailed
35. At the drop of a hat
1. The matter is carried over
1. Clumsy person who drops hats everywhere
2. The matter is decided
2. Suddenly and without much thought
3. The opportunity has passed
3. Do something without much pressure
4. Seeking new opportunities
4. A happy and easygoing man

36. Walking on eggshells

1. Careful not to offend or upset others

2. Walking with great care

3. Making a noisy entry

4. Undertaking an uncomfortable journey

37. Feather your own nest

1. To make one's lodgings comfortable

2. To make money for oneself by way of

dishonest means

3. To look at something with a lot of pleasure

4. To make something more important than it

really is

Page No. 200

Idioms & Phrases Q.6 Her explanation was so convoluted that it left
everyone confused.
Q.1 Man of straw
1. scratching their heads
1. A combination of two people that is perfect in
every way 2. turning a blind eye
2. A child of a celebrity or a famous person 3. stealing the show
3. A person who is disregarded as lacking 4. biting the bullet
character or morality
Q.7 The agents are stuck in a difficult
4. A situation like a close contest circumstance with no escape at all.
Q.2 When it comes to cooking, she can really think 1. To go to the dogs
creatively and unconventionally to create unique
2. Back against the wall
dishes that surprise everyone.
3. To give currency
1. outside the wire 2. outside the canvas
4. To give one a long rope
3. outside the box
Q8. When it comes to negotiations, he knows how
4. outside the law
to act in a way that maximises his advantages
Q.3 He suddenly tried to throw cold water on my and get the best deal.
plan.
1. play it safe
1. To discourage
2. play it by air
2. To take revenge
3. play his cards right
3. To understand the hidden meaning
4. play it by the ear
4. To seize the opportunity
Q.9 Although our backgrounds are different, we sail
Q.4 Bide one’s time in the __________ boat.
1. To face a difficult situation with courage and 1. biggest
determination
2. old
2. To join a popular trend or activity
3. different
3. To wait patiently for an opportunity
4. same
4. To accidentally reveal a secret
Q.10 Jake and Emily worked together on a project,
Q.5 Tushara was asked to gather demographic and it was a piece of cake for them to complete it
data that could be useful down the road. on time.
1. On the way 1. An easy task
2. In the future 2. Something annoying
3. In an informal way 3. Something enjoyable
4. In the present 4. A difficult task
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Q.11 Although he was nervous before the 2. To punish a cat
presentation, he managed to face the situation
3. To reveal a secret
with courage and deliver a fantastic speech.
4. To release a pet
1. bite the dust 2. bite the pain
Q.17 Everybody said that Mr. Sen was a man of
3. bite the tongue
_____________.
4. bite the bullet
1. books
Q.12 He’s been working late into the night, trying
2. copies
to finish his thesis before the deadline.
3. letters
1. burning the candle at both ends
4. messages
2. burning bridges
Q18. You hit the nail on the head with this colour
3. burning the ships
of wallpaper for the living room; it looks better than I
4. burning the midnight oil expected.
Q.13 Fall between two stools 1. Hit the wall 2. Hit the floor
1. Fail to achieve either of two aims 3. Analyse and understand the situation
2. Confused to select either of two options 4. Identify something exactly right
3. Fall upon the hurdles continuously Q19. ABC
4. Succeed to achieve both aims 1. Fair and honest
Q.14 A false and selfish friend will never be by 2. To be ready
your side in times of difficulty.
3. Very common knowledge
1. past master
4. Complete failure
2. fair weather friend
Q20. The disputed land is the ___________ of
3. great hand discord between two families.
4. good Samaritan 1. mango
Q.15 She didn’t want to upset anyone at work, so 2. orange
she carefully navigated the office politics.
3. apple
1. scratch anyone's heads
4. grapes
2. bite the bullet
Q.21 Burn the midnight oil
3. step on anyone's toes
1. To waste time
4. steal the show
2. To extinguish a flame
Q.16 Let the cat out of the bag
3. To work late into the night
1. To keep a secret
4. To literally burn oil at midnight
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Q.22 I appreciate the detailed report, but let's talk Q.27 Don't assume that everyone but you is happy.
about the important points and not waste time; The grass is always redder on one side.
what's the bottom line?
1. sky is red in the evening
1. cut to the chase 2. hone your skills
2. grass is always greener on the other side
3. think of the unthinkable
3. plant is always greener on all sides
4. bear the stamp
4. fruit is yellow on the other side
Q.23 The proof of the pudding is in the eating
Q.28 He has a knack for ignoring problems
1. Trust is built by sharing good food intentionally in his department, hoping they will
just go away.
2. A person can only know if something is good or
bad by trying it 1. turning a blind eye
3. One has the evidence if they are alert 2. turning point
4. Its better to be well-fed than to go hungry 3. turning a corner
Q.24 Arjun was an expert developer, and it took 4. turning a leaf
him all of a New York minute to solve the issue
Q.29 Giving Astha a make-over was a piece of
with the software.
cake because she’s so naturally beautiful.
1. A situation beyond the scope of one's
1. a slice of pizza
imagination
2. A piece of pie
2. An elaborate exhibition or presentation
3. A task easily accomplished
3. A very short amount of time
4. A piece of bread
4. A very casual attitude
Q.30 Cost an arm and a leg
Q.25 Out of the blue
1. Inexpensive
1. Completely unexpected
2. Very expensive
2. Very doubtful
3. Free of charge
3. Quite old
4. Affordable
4. Extremely cold
Q.31 Losing my job turned out to be a blessing in
Q.26 The contractor realised that he could not get
disguise, as it pushed me to pursue my passion
the contract unless he greases the palms of the
and start my own successful business.
officials.
1. something which is a hidden danger
1. To bear the brunt
2. something which shows compassion
2. To come to a stop
3. something one can gift to others
3. To deprive one of one's power
4. something unfortunate that results in an
4. To bribe
unforeseen positive outcome
Page No. 203
Q.32 Despite the initial setbacks, the team 1. To sleep early
remained optimistic and pushed through to
2. To work late into the night
achieve their goals.
3. To be energetic during the day
1. kept their chin up
4. To waste time
2. kept a close eye
Q.38 She was feeling under the weather, so she
3. kept a stiff upper lip
decided to go to bed in order to sleep.
4. kept at bay
1. bark up the wrong tree
Q.33 Cat's pajamas
2. cry over spilled milk
1. Boring and repetitive
3. break a leg
2. Frightening and dubious
4. hit the sack
3. Soft and soothing
Q.39 Mr. Saxena sold his car because it was a
4. Excellent and Outstanding useless one.
Q.34 Far and wide 1. in doldrums 2. a gift of gab
1. Everywhere 3. a white elephant 4. bite the bullet
2. Now and then Q.40 His father enjoyed the strongest position as
an MLA in his constituency.
3. To give away a secret
1. To be at helm of 2. To go to the dogs
4. By itself
3. To get upper hand 4. To be at one’s wit’s end
Q.35 The hotel’s spacious rooms and convenient
location ______________ for our family vacation Q.41 Lick your wounds
perfectly.
1. To curse a lot
1. fit of rage
2. To prepare for further confrontation
2. fit to kill
3. To go away and recover from bad experience
3. fit to be tied
4. To ask for help
4. fit the bill
Q.42 Never judge a book by its cover
Q.36 After suffering for a long time, Roy finally
1. Appearances can be deceiving.
passed away this month.
2. You should always judge people based on their
1. breathed his last
possessions.
2. burnt his boats
3. Beautiful things are always valuable.
3. blazed the trail
4. First impressions are always accurate.
4. brought down the house
Q.37 To burn the midnight oil
Page No. 204
Q.43 She has been feeling unwell lately, so she
decided to take a break and rest.
1. under the weather
2. under the sun
3. under the radar
4. under pressure
Q.44 Spill the beans
1. To drop something accidentally
2. To cook a meal
3. To tell people secret information
4. To clean up a mess
Q.45 Even though the project seemed
overwhelming at first, we took it slowly and
carefully and got it done in no time.
1. one step ahead
2. one step at a time
3. one step closer
4. one step fix
Q.46 Despite the criticism, the artist took it in stride
and considered it ______________.
1. break a leg
2. as water under the bridge
3. a chip on their shoulder
4. a piece of cake
Q.47 After the meeting, I felt like I was elated
because the team decided to implement my idea.
1. walking on thin ice
2. walking on a dream
3. walking on eggshells
4. walking on air

Page No. 205

SSC CPO 2024 Mains 7. Piece of ________
1. Hit the _________ 1. apple
1. sack 2. sweet
2. bay 3. bread
3. head 4. cake
4. bag 8. To get someone’s goat
2. Bite the ________ 1. To have affection for somebody
1. bread 2. To make one feel good
2. barb 3. To steal something
3. bullet 4. To irritate someone
4. bean 9. Sitting on the _______.
3. Be on the same page 1. boundary
1. Doing things with a partner 2. fence
2. Reading something together 3. tree
3. Having the same understanding 4. wall
4. Staying in the same place 10. Cut from the same cloth
4. Spill the ______. 1. To belong to the same family
1. milk 2. To share resources
2. beads 3. To have the same origin
3. tea 4. To have very similar qualities
4. beans
5. Be in apple-pie order
1. Be in chronological order
2. Be in a happy mood
3. Be perfectly arranged and tidy
4. Be extra sweet to people
6. Split one’s sides
1. To roar with laughter
2. To overeat
3. To scream in agony
4. To undergo surgery

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