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The Exhaustive List of American Idioms

(Book 9 of 10 Books)

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Important Information

The beginning of Book 1 has some very important information about getting the most out of these books. If you have not read it yet, it would be very beneficial for you to do so now.

8,801	What does the idiom “Holiday hiatus” mean? A) Canceling holiday plans B) An extended holiday trip C) Working overtime during the holidays D) A break or pause during the holidays Answer: D) A break or pause during the holidays Example: The show will return in January after the holiday hiatus.
8,802	What does the idiom “Heading toward a new horizon” mean? A) Exploring uncharted territory B) Traveling to a distant place C) Chasing an unattainable dream D) Moving toward a fresh start or opportunity Answer: D) Moving toward a fresh start or opportunity Example: After years in the same job, he’s heading toward a new horizon with his own business.
8,803	What does the idiom “He’s making an example out of her” mean? A) Praising someone as a role model B) Punishing someone to teach others a lesson C) Blaming someone unfairly D) Ignoring someone’s contribution Answer: B) Punishing someone to teach others a lesson Example: The manager fired her to make an example out of her for being late.
8,804	What does the idiom “He’s going to the pen” mean? A) He’s heading to an animal farm B) He’s going to write something C) He’s going to prison D) He’s getting disciplined Answer: C) He’s going to prison Example: After the trial, it was clear he’s going to the pen for a long time.
8,805	What does the idiom “He’s at the bar knocking it back” mean? A) Flirting with someone at the bar B) Drinking alcohol quickly C) Refusing drinks offered to him D) Playing a bar game Answer: B) Drinking alcohol quickly Example: He’s at the bar knocking it back like there’s no tomorrow.
8,806	What does the idiom “He’s a weasel” mean? A) He’s deceitful or untrustworthy B) He’s clever and resourceful C) He’s cowardly D) He’s agile Answer: A) He’s deceitful or untrustworthy Example: I wouldn’t trust him with important tasks; he’s a weasel.
8,807	What does the idiom “He’s a screw” in a prison setting mean? A) A skilled lock-picker B) A strict inmate C) A prison guard D) A troublemaker Answer: C) A prison guard Example: The inmates were wary of him because he’s a screw and always watching.
8,808	What does the idiom “He’s a bull (prison)” mean? A) A violent offender B) A stubborn inmate C) An experienced inmate D) A powerful or intimidating prison guard Answer: D) A powerful or intimidating prison guard Example: Watch out for him; he’s a bull, and he doesn’t tolerate any nonsense.
8,809	What does the idiom “He ticked me off” mean? A) He annoyed or angered me B) He made me laugh C) He ignored me D) He corrected me Answer: A) He annoyed or angered me Example: I don’t know why, but his constant interruptions ticked me off.
8,810	What does the idiom “He said it on air” mean? A) He spoke without thinking B) He said it publicly on television or radio C) He whispered it D) He joked about it Answer: B) He said it publicly on television or radio Example: The politician caused a stir when he said it on air during the interview.
8,811	What does the idiom “He does it with flair” mean? A) He completes tasks creatively or stylishly B) He struggles but succeeds C) He exaggerates everything he does D) He does it recklessly Answer: A) He completes tasks creatively or stylishly Example: When it comes to public speaking, he does it with flair and confidence.
8,812	What does the idiom “Goodbyes are not his strong suit” mean? A) He avoids goodbyes completely B) He is awkward or uncomfortable with farewells C) He is emotional about farewells D) He never says goodbye Answer: B) He is awkward or uncomfortable with farewells Example: Goodbyes are not his strong suit, so he usually just waves and leaves.
8,813	What does the idiom “Follow the track of the iron horse” mean? A) Traveling westward B) Pursuing an impossible dream C) Riding on horseback D) Following train tracks Answer: D) Following train tracks Example: Early settlers followed the track of the iron horse to find new lands.
8,814	What does the idiom “Catfish (social media)” mean? A) Deceiving someone with a fake online identity B) Following someone secretly online C) Sending prank messages D) Posting unflattering photos Answer: A) Deceiving someone with a fake online identity Example: She found out she had been catfished after weeks of chatting online.
8,815	What does the idiom “Show him a berth” mean? A) Show kindness B) Guide someone to a ship C) Offer someone a job D) Give him plenty of space Answer: D) Give him plenty of space Example: He’s always angry these days; you’d better show him a berth.
8,816	What does the idiom “Brave guys bleed just as much as the rest of them” mean? A) Everyone is equally brave in danger B) Heroes are always vulnerable C) Courage doesn’t make one invincible D) Bravery requires risk Answer: C) Courage doesn’t make one invincible Example: Remember, brave guys bleed just as much as the rest of them; be cautious out there.
8,817	What does the idiom “Better than a minute, but worse than an hour” mean? A) An improved situation B) A decision made in haste C) Something of moderate quality or length D) A long but tolerable wait Answer: C) Something of moderate quality or length Example: The film was better than a minute, but worse than an hour; just okay.
8,818	What does the idiom “A foot in both worlds and in neither” mean? A) Being involved in two situations but belonging to neither B) Traveling between two countries C) Multitasking efficiently D) Living a double life Answer: A) Being involved in two situations but belonging to neither Example: Growing up bilingual, she always felt she had a foot in both worlds and in neither.
8,819	What does the idiom “Am I flying solo on this?” mean? A) Piloting an airplane alone B) Asking if one is working alone on a task C) Taking part in a competition alone D) Feeling abandoned by friends Answer: B) Asking if you are working alone on a task Example: “We need to prepare for the presentation. Am I flying solo on this, or are you going to help?”
8,820	What does the idiom “across the channel” mean? A) Changing a television channel B) Taking a risky decision C) Crossing a small river D) Traveling between England and France Answer: D) Traveling between England and France Example: Many tourists from England plan to go across the channel to explore Europe this summer.
8,821	What does the idiom “You are such a nimble brain” mean? A) You are creative but lack focus. B) You are indecisive and distracted. C) You are overly complicated in your ideas. D) You are very quick and clever in your thinking. Answer: D) You are very quick and clever in your thinking. Example: “You solved that puzzle in seconds; you are such a nimble brain!”
8,822	What does the idiom “A bargaining chip” mean? A) Something that gives you leverage in negotiations. B) A token used for playing games. C) A substitute for cash in a trade. D) A temporary solution to a problem. Answer: A) Something that gives you leverage in negotiations. Example: “The manager used the extra vacation days as a bargaining chip to secure the deal.”
8,823	What does the idiom “This is God’s country” mean? A) This is a land where religious laws are followed strictly. B) This is a place with many religious institutions. C) This is a remote and beautiful area, often seen as untouched by development. D) This is a place with a significant historical background. Answer: C) This is a remote and beautiful area, often seen as untouched by development. Example: “Looking at these rolling hills and clear skies, it’s no wonder people call this God’s country.”
8,824	What does the idiom “Not making a lot of headway” mean? A) Not making significant progress. B) Not feeling motivated to continue. C) Not understanding the task at hand. D) Not agreeing with the others involved. Answer: A) Not making significant progress. Example: “We’ve been working on this all day, but we’re not making a lot of headway with the repairs.”
8,825	What does the idiom “You’re on fire” mean? A) You are working under extreme pressure. B) You are in trouble or facing difficulties. C) You are feeling tired and overwhelmed. D) You are extremely successful or performing exceptionally well. Answer: D) You are extremely successful or performing exceptionally well. Example: “Wow, you’ve scored three goals in a row; you’re on fire today!”
8,826	What does the idiom “As of late” mean? A) Recently or in the recent past. B) Late at night or during the evening. C) Something that is overdue. D) Something planned for later. Answer: A) Recently or in the recent past. Example: “As of late, I’ve been focusing more on my fitness goals than anything else.”
8,827	What does the idiom “I think that this will be enough to tip the scale” mean? A) This will create a balanced situation. B) This will make a significant difference or determine the outcome. C) This will break the balance completely. D) This will reduce the importance of the situation. Answer: B) This will make a significant difference or determine the outcome. Example: “Adding this evidence to the case should be enough to tip the scale in our favor.”
8,828	What does the idiom “I can see the wheels turning in his head” mean? A) He is thinking deeply or processing something. B) He is confused and unable to decide. C) He is acting mechanically without thought. D) He is trying to avoid a conversation. Answer: A) He is thinking deeply or processing something. Example: When he paused before answering the question, she said, “I can see the wheels turning in his head; he’s trying to figure it out.”
8,829	What does the idiom “I feel like I’m in the Twilight Zone” mean? A) I feel like I’m in a familiar and comfortable place. B) I feel like I’m in a strange or surreal (strange, bizarre, and not normal) situation. C) I feel like I’m stuck in a repetitive cycle. D) I feel like I’m having a nostalgic moment. Answer: B) I feel like I’m in a strange or surreal (strange, bizarre, and not normal) situation. Example: After hearing their bizarre conversation, she said, “I feel like I’m in the Twilight Zone; nothing here makes sense.”
8,830	What does the idiom “freak accident” mean? A) An unexpected and unusual event that causes harm or damage. B) A mistake caused by carelessness. C) A predictable and common incident. D) A minor mishap with no serious consequences. Answer: A) An unexpected and unusual event that causes harm or damage. Example: The tree fell on the car during a freak accident caused by a sudden windstorm.
8,831	What does the phrase “We need to buy some Christmas stocking stuffers” mean? A) We need to buy large, expensive Christmas gifts. B) We need to buy small, inexpensive Christmas gifts to put in Christmas stockings. C) We need to decorate the Christmas stockings. D) We need to buy presents for everyone on the list. Answer: B) We need to buy small, inexpensive Christmas gifts to put in Christmas stockings. Example: “Let’s grab some candy and trinkets; we need to buy some Christmas stocking stuffers before the party.”
8,832	What does the phrase “All proceeds go to charity” mean? A) The event is free, and no money will be raised. B) A percentage of the profits will be kept by the seller. C) Only part of the money collected will be used for charity. D) All profits from a sale will be donated to a charitable cause. Answer: D) All profits from a sale will be donated to a charitable cause. Example: The bake sale raised $1,000, and since all proceeds go to charity, the entire amount was donated to the local food bank.
8,833	What does the idiom “Luke, I am your father” refer to? A) A misquoted famous movie line. B) A way to reveal surprising information. C) A term used for parental advice. D) A phrase to show dominance. Answer: B) A way to reveal surprising information. Example: When revealing a shocking truth to his friend, he joked, “Luke, I am your father!”
8,834	What does the idiom “Mandela Effect” mean? A) A widespread false memory or collective misremembering. B) A historical reference to Nelson Mandela’s legacy. C) A term for overcoming hardship through resilience. D) A phrase used to describe a political phenomenon. Answer: A) A widespread false memory or collective misremembering. Example: She thought the movie line was “Luke, I am your father,” but that’s the Mandela Effect; it’s actually, “No, I am your father.”
8,835	What does the idiom “You’re such a dick head” mean? A) You’re trying too hard to impress others. B) You’re being overly confident and boastful. C) You’re acting in a rude or obnoxious manner. D) You’re refusing to cooperate with others. Answer: A) You’re acting in a rude or obnoxious manner. Example: After his sarcastic comment, she snapped, “You’re such a dick head sometimes!”
8,836	What does the idiom “You’re just dragging things out” mean? A) You’re unnecessarily prolonging something. B) You’re moving slowly and carefully. C) You’re creating additional problems. D) You’re multitasking inefficiently. Answer: A) You’re unnecessarily prolonging something. Example: Frustrated with the delay, she said, “Stop stalling; you’re just dragging things out.”
8,837	What does the idiom “You’re incorrigible” mean? A) You’re unwilling to admit your mistakes. B) You’re very resourceful and creative. C) You’re unpredictable and inconsistent. D) You’re impossible to change or correct. Answer: D) You’re impossible to change or correct. Example: Laughing at his jokes despite herself, she said, “You’re incorrigible.”
8,838	What does the idiom “You need to kick some ass” mean? A) You need to act boldly and decisively. B) You need to intimidate others. C) You need to relax and take a break. D) You need to ask for help. Answer: A) You need to act boldly and decisively. Example: Before the competition, his coach said, “Get out there and kick some ass!”
8,839	What does the idiom “You need to do a stop and see” mean? A) You need to reassess your decisions. B) You need to take a moment to observe your surroundings. C) You need to pause and check if someone is following you. D) You need to meet someone unexpectedly. Answer: C) You need to pause and check if someone is following you. Example: The spy whispered, “Before heading to the safe house, you need to do a stop and see.”
8,840	What does the idiom “You just didn’t know when to let go” mean? A) You held onto something too long emotionally or physically. B) You were unwilling to forgive someone. C) You refused to give up a task prematurely. D) You acted stubbornly in a challenging situation. Answer: A) You held onto something too long emotionally or physically. Example: After their endless argument, she said, “You just didn’t know when to let go, and now look where we are.”
8,841	What does the idiom “You have me at a loss” mean? A) You’ve made me lose my focus. B) You’ve defeated me in an argument. C) You’ve surprised me with your kindness. D) You’ve confused me or left me unsure how to respond. Answer: D) You’ve confused me or left me unsure how to respond. Example: After hearing her bizarre explanation, he said, “You have me at a loss; I don’t even know how to reply.”
8,842	What does the idiom “You got flat feet?” mean? A) Are you physically unfit or lacking stamina? B) Are you standing awkwardly? C) Are you unable to keep up? D) Are you hesitant to take action? Answer: A) Are you physically unfit or lacking stamina? Example: The drill sergeant shouted at the recruit, “You got flat feet, soldier? Pick up the pace!”
8,843	What does the idiom “You can’t kill someone who is already dead” mean? A) You can’t revive a hopeless situation. B) You can’t make the situation worse. C) You can’t harm someone who has nothing to lose. D) You can’t defeat someone who has already won. Answer: C) You can’t harm someone who has nothing to lose. Example: After losing everything, he shrugged and said, “You can’t kill someone who is already dead.”
8,844	What does the idiom “You are not part of the equation” mean? A) You are not involved or relevant to the situation. B) You are not contributing enough. C) You are not thinking logically. D) You are avoiding the main problem. Answer: A) You are not involved or relevant to the situation. Example: The manager said bluntly, “You are not part of the equation for this decision.”
8,845	What does the idiom “Yippee-ki-yay, cowboy!” mean? A) A greeting among friends. B) A way to mock someone. C) A phrase used to encourage someone. D) An expression of excitement or enthusiasm. Answer: D) An expression of excitement or enthusiasm. Example: As they rode off to start their adventure, he shouted, “Yippee-ki-yay, cowboy!”
8,846	What does the idiom “Why do you have to be like that?” mean? A) Why are you behaving in a certain way? B) Why are you being so kind? C) Why are you acting surprised? D) Why are you changing your mind? Answer: A) Why are you behaving in a certain way? Example: When he refused to cooperate, she asked, “Why do you have to be like that?”
8,847	What does the idiom “He’s a party crasher” mean? A) He ruins parties by being negative. B) He attends parties without an invitation. C) He brings unexpected energy to parties. D) He avoids attending parties. Answer: B) He attends parties without an invitation. Example: He’s a party crasher who always shows up uninvited but somehow becomes the center of attention.
8,848	What does the idiom “Whirlwind visit” mean? A) A memorable and exciting visit. B) A visit during a storm. C) A chaotic and unplanned trip. D) A quick and rushed trip. Answer: D) A quick and rushed trip. Example: They made a whirlwind visit to the museum before catching their flight.
8,849	What does the idiom “When you add this all up” mean? A) When you consider all the factors. B) When you calculate the total amount. C) When you organize your thoughts. D) When you summarize the story. Answer: A) When you consider all the factors. Example: When you add this all up, it’s clear that we need to change our strategy.
8,850	What does the idiom “Why are you taking it so personal?” mean? A) Why are you ignoring this? B) Why are you reacting as if it’s directed at you? C) Why are you discussing this privately? D) Why are you misunderstanding the situation? Answer: B) Why are you reacting as if it’s directed at you? Example: It was just a joke; why are you taking it so personal?
8,851	What does the idiom “You need to watch your ass” mean? A) Take better care of your health. B) Be aware of your surroundings. C) Be cautious and protect yourself. D) Pay more attention to your appearance. Answer: C) Be cautious and protect yourself. Example: The senior officer warned him, “You need to watch your ass in this line of work.”
8,852	What does the idiom “When two spiders fight, you hope that both of them die” mean? A) You hope for a peaceful resolution. B) You admire the strength of both opponents. C) You want both sides in a conflict to lose. D) You don’t care about the outcome. Answer: C) You want both sides in a conflict to lose. Example: Watching the two rival politicians argue, he remarked, “When two spiders fight, you hope that both of them die.”
8,853	What does the idiom “Welcome to the party” mean? A) You’re now part of an exclusive group. B) You’ve arrived late to an actual party. C) You’ve been officially invited. D) You’ve finally joined in or caught up. Answer: D) You’ve finally joined in or caught up. Example: When the rookie finally understood the situation, his mentor said, “Welcome to the party, kid.”
8,854	What does the idiom “We’re coming under fire” mean? A) We are being criticized or attacked. B) We are facing a strict deadline. C) We are experiencing financial pressure. D) We are being overwhelmed by new challenges. Answer: A) We are being criticized or attacked. Example: The team felt the pressure as their decisions were coming under fire from the media.
8,855	What does the idiom “We need to bag him” mean? A) We need to remove him from a situation. B) We need to distract him. C) We need to protect him. D) We need to catch or arrest him. Answer: D) We need to catch or arrest him. Example: The officer said, “We need to bag him before he escapes the area.”
8,856	What does the idiom “We have it down to a letter” mean? A) We have perfected it. B) We are still figuring it out. C) We have just started planning it. D) We are following strict instructions. Answer: A) We have perfected it. Example: The chef said, “After years of practice, we have it down to a letter.”
8,857	What does the idiom “We got a pool going on down here” mean? A) We are gathering ideas for a solution. B) We are organizing a swimming competition. C) We are making bets or guesses about something. D) We are collecting money for a project. Answer: C) We are making bets or guesses about something. Example: The staff joked, “We got a pool going on down here about who’s going to win the race.”
8,858	What does the idiom “We came with an agenda” mean? A) We had a specific purpose or plan. B) We brought a long list of tasks. C) We arrived without knowing what to do. D) We wanted to make a surprise. Answer: A) We had a specific purpose or plan. Example: The activists said, “We came with an agenda to ensure the issue was addressed.”
8,859	What does the idiom “We are just prisoners of our own device” mean? A) We are responsible for solving our own problems. B) We are limited by our surroundings. C) We are punished for other people’s mistakes. D) We are trapped by the choices we’ve made. Answer: D) We are trapped by the choices we’ve made. Example: He reflected, “We are just prisoners of our own device, caught up in technology.”
8,860	What does the idiom “We are in a bit of a pickle” mean? A) We are in a difficult or tricky situation. B) We are confused about what to do next. C) We are very close to solving a problem. D) We are unsure about our current decision. Answer: A) We are in a difficult or tricky situation. Example: After losing the map, she said, “We are in a bit of a pickle right now.”
8,861	What does the idiom “tout au contraire” mean? A) Completely wrong or mistaken. B) Everything is as expected. C) On the contrary or quite the opposite. D) Perfectly in agreement with expectations. Answer: C) On the contrary or quite the opposite. Example: He said he thought it was easy, but tout au contraire, it was extremely difficult.
8,862	What does the idiom “TKO” mean? A) Technical knockout, or a decisive victory. B) A total knockout in style. C) A quick and unexpected defeat. D) A termination of knowledge or information. Answer: A) Technical knockout, or a decisive victory. Example: The boxer won the match with a TKO in the fifth round.
8,863	What does the idiom “This is a party line (phone)” mean? A) A phone line used for entertainment purposes. B) A direct connection to the host of a party. C) A secret communication channel. D) A phone line shared by multiple households. Answer: D) A phone line shared by multiple households. Example: When I was young and the phone system was relatively new, we had to be careful about what we said because this is a party line.
8,864	What does the idiom “They won’t know what hit them” mean? A) They’ll be taken by surprise. B) They’ll be confused about what happened. C) They’ll be prepared for an attack. D) They’ll regret their actions. Answer: A) They’ll be taken by surprise. Example: With our new strategy, they won’t know what hit them during the next game.
8,865	What does the idiom “They pulled some strings” mean? A) They tricked someone into helping them. B) They worked hard to create a result. C) They used their influence to achieve something. D) They made things more complicated. Answer: C) They used their influence to achieve something. Example: She got the promotion because her uncle pulled some strings for her.
8,866	What does the idiom “They just as soon kill you as look at you” mean? A) They are extremely dangerous and ruthless. B) They have no regard for appearances. C) They are clumsy and unpredictable. D) They are indifferent to what happens to you. Answer: A) They are extremely dangerous and ruthless. Example: The gang is so violent, they just as soon kill you as look at you.
8,867	What does the idiom “There will always be one more thread to pull” mean? A) There will always be something left undone. B) There will always be more work to finish. C) There will always be extra help available. D) There will always be more questions or issues to address. Answer: D) There will always be more questions or issues to address. Example: The detective sighed, “In investigations, there will always be one more thread to pull.”
8,868	What does the idiom “Signed up for” mean? A) Agreed to do or take part in something. B) Declined an offer to participate. C) Asked for more information about something. D) Decided to avoid an opportunity. Answer: A) Agreed to do or take part in something. Example: When the project got tough, she said, “I didn’t realize what I signed up for.”
8,869	What does the idiom “The first one is on me” mean? A) I’ll take responsibility for the first mistake. B) I’ll pay for the first round of alcohol or item. C) I’ll take the first turn. D) I’ll handle the first problem. Answer: B) I’ll pay for the first round of alcohol or item. Example: As they sat down for drinks, he said, “The first one is on me.”
8,870	What does the idiom “The Boston bombing” represent in conversations? A) A historical terrorist attack in Boston. B) A specific type of explosion used in war. C) A sporting event in Boston. D) A term for a quick and impactful decision. Answer: A) A historical terrorist attack in Boston. Example: The security measures were increased nationwide after the Boston bombing tragedy.
8,871	What does the idiom “Shut it down” mean? A) Close a business for the day. B) Finish something in an organized way. C) Stop an activity or operation completely. D) Take a short break before continuing. Answer: C) Stop an activity or operation completely. Example: When the argument got out of control, the teacher said, “Shut it down, right now.”
8,872	What does the idiom “Shut your pie hole” mean? A) Be quiet or stop talking. B) Stop eating. C) Avoid complaining. D) Think carefully before speaking. Answer: A) Be quiet or stop talking. Example: Annoyed by the constant interruptions, he said, “Shut your pie hole and let me finish.”
8,873	What does the idiom “That’s not what I signed on for” mean? A) I want to negotiate better terms. B) I didn’t volunteer for this task. C) I don’t want to participate anymore. D) This is not what I agreed to do. Answer: D) This is not what I agreed to do. Example: Frustrated with her new responsibilities, she said, “That’s not what I signed on for.”
8,874	What does the idiom “Speed dating” mean? A) A fast-paced method of meeting potential romantic partners. B) A competition to see who can date the most people. C) A way to reconnect with old friends. D) A method for finding new coworkers. Answer: A) A fast-paced method of meeting potential romantic partners. Example: She decided to try speed dating to meet new people in a fun setting.
8,875	What does the idiom “Skeleton crew” mean? A) A crew responsible for cleaning up. B) A team working during a holiday. C) A group of inexperienced workers. D) The minimum number of people required to run an operation. Answer: D) The minimum number of people required to run an operation. Example: During the holidays, the office runs on a skeleton crew to keep things operational.
8,876	What does the idiom “So, what’s keeping you awake?” mean? A) What’s worrying you or causing you stress? B) Why are you staying up so late? C) What is exciting you right now? D) Why are you avoiding sleep? Answer: A) What’s worrying you or causing you stress? Example: Concerned about her friend’s behavior, she asked, “So, what’s keeping you awake these days?”
8,877	What does the idiom “Sorry, he didn’t cut it” mean? A) He couldn’t find a solution. B) He refused to complete the task. C) He wasn’t good enough or didn’t meet expectations. D) He quit before finishing the job. Answer: C) He wasn’t good enough or didn’t meet expectations. Example: The manager said, “We gave him a chance, but sorry, he didn’t cut it.”
8,878	What does the idiom “She’s a washed-up has-been” mean? A) She is no longer successful or relevant. B) She has retired and enjoys a peaceful life. C) She avoids public attention. D) She has become successful again after a break. Answer: A) She is no longer successful or relevant. Example: Once a famous actress, she’s now a washed-up has-been struggling to find roles.
8,879	What does the idiom “She snitched on him” mean? A) She defended him against accusations. B) She helped him escape a dangerous situation. C) She gave him valuable advice. D) She betrayed him by telling his secrets. Answer: D) She betrayed him by telling his secrets. Example: The gang turned against her when they discovered she snitched on him to the police.
8,880	What does the idiom “I’m trying to lose my tail” mean? A) I’m trying to escape someone who’s following me. B) I’m trying to avoid responsibility. C) I’m trying to win a race. D) I’m trying to hide something from others. Answer: A) I’m trying to escape someone who’s following me. Example: The spy whispered, “I’m trying to lose my tail before heading to the meeting.”
8,881	What does the idiom “She set her eyes on him” mean? A) She became angry at him. B) She noticed him from a distance. C) She decided to focus her attention or interest on him. D) She avoided making eye contact with him. Answer: C) She decided to focus her attention or interest on him. Example: From the moment they met, it was clear she set her eyes on him as her next romantic interest.
8,882	What does the idiom “She digs into matters that she shouldn’t” mean? A) She gets involved in things that aren’t her concern. B) She works hard on irrelevant projects. C) She researches things thoroughly. D) She avoids personal matters. Answer: A) She gets involved in things that aren’t her concern. Example: Her boss warned her, “She digs into matters that she shouldn’t, and it often causes problems.”
8,883	What does the idiom “She did a stop and see” mean? A) She paused to observe her surroundings. B) She made a quick stop to see if someone was following her. C) She stopped to meet someone unexpectedly. D) She paused to rethink her plans. Answer: B) She made a quick stop to see if someone was following her. Example: To ensure she wasn’t being followed, she did a stop and see at a busy intersection.
8,884	What does the idiom “She came from money” mean? A) She used to work at a bank. B) She earned a lot of money independently. C) She has an eye for good deals. D) She inherited wealth from her family. Answer: D) She inherited wealth from her family. Example: Everyone knew she came from money because of her luxurious lifestyle.
8,885	What does the idiom “Send a black and white to the bank” mean? A) Send a police car to the location. B) Send a message in writing. C) Deliver money safely to the bank. D) Send a trusted officer to check the bank. Answer: A) Send a police car to the location. Example: The dispatcher said, “We need to send a black and white to the bank; there’s been a robbery.”
8,886	What does the idiom “Can you spare a dime?” mean? A) Can you tell me a story? B) Can you give me a small amount of time? C) Can you lend me some money? D) Can you help me find something? Answer: C) Can you lend me some money? Example: The homeless man approached the stranger, asking, “Can you spare a dime?”
8,887	What does the idiom “Quite contraire” mean? A) Consistently agreeing. B) Extremely cooperative. C) Very neutral or indifferent. D) Completely different or opposing. Answer: D) Completely different or opposing. Example: She said she loved spicy food, but her actions were quite contraire when she refused to try it.
8,888	What does the idiom “Put on the bracelets (police)” mean? A) Arrest someone and put handcuffs on them. B) Give someone a piece of jewelry. C) Attach a tracking device to someone. D) Escort someone to a safe location. Answer: A) Arrest someone and put handcuffs on them. Example: After the chase, the officer finally caught the suspect and put on the bracelets.
8,889	What does the idiom “Picked up some chatter (police or spy)” mean? A) Overheard people gossiping. B) Intercepted communication or intelligence. C) Listened to background noise. D) Talked to a source in person. Answer: B) Intercepted communication or intelligence. Example: The agent said, “We picked up some chatter suggesting an imminent attack.”
8,890	What does the idiom “Piqued my interest” mean? A) Disappointed me. B) Made me lose interest. C) Sparked my curiosity or attention. D) Made me feel hesitant. Answer: C) Sparked my curiosity or attention. Example: The article piqued my interest, and I couldn’t stop reading until I finished it.
8,891	What does the idiom “Not a dime to spare” mean? A) No extra money available. B) Barely enough time to spare. C) No extra resources to share. D) Everything is being saved for later. Answer: A) No extra money available. Example: After paying the bills, she realized she had not a dime to spare this month.
8,892	What does the idiom “His walk has purpose” mean? A) He walks with great care for his surroundings. B) He walks aimlessly and without direction. C) He walks slowly and cautiously. D) He walks confidently and with determination. Answer: D) He walks confidently and with determination. Example: Watching him stride into the meeting, it was clear that his walk has purpose.
8,893	What does the idiom “My steps were quick and light” mean? A) I was walking with energy and excitement. B) I was walking cautiously and slowly. C) I was sneaking quietly. D) I was running away from something. Answer: A) I was walking with energy and excitement. Example: After hearing the good news, my steps were quick and light as I headed home.
8,894	What does the idiom “My family’s home is low rent” mean? A) My family lives in a temporary residence. B) My family lives in an undesirable neighborhood. C) My family lives in a modest or inexpensive place. D) My family is struggling to pay rent. Answer: C) My family lives in a modest or inexpensive place. Example: He said, “We’ve always been practical; my family’s home is low rent, but it’s cozy.”
8,895	What does the idiom “Maintain the course” mean? A) Stay focused and continue your efforts. B) Make drastic changes to your plans. C) Stop what you are doing and reassess. D) Look for alternate paths. Answer: A) Stay focused and continue your efforts. Example: Despite the setbacks, the captain urged, “Maintain the course and we’ll reach our goal.”
8,896	What does the idiom “Life is not always a straight line” mean? A) Life can be easily controlled. B) Life is very simple and predictable. C) Life requires careful planning. D) Life is full of unexpected twists and challenges. Answer: D) Life is full of unexpected twists and challenges. Example: When her plans fell apart, her mentor reminded her, “Life is not always a straight line.”
8,897	What does the idiom “Leave the past in the past” mean? A) Don’t focus on past mistakes. B) Don’t share your old memories. C) Avoid talking about history. D) Use your past to make better decisions. Answer: A) Don’t focus on past mistakes. Example: After their argument, she said, “Let’s leave the past in the past and move forward.”
8,898	What does the idiom “It is time to gather your flock” mean? A) It’s time to start a new project. B) It’s time to prepare for a journey. C) It’s time to bring people together for guidance or leadership. D) It’s time to clean up your surroundings. Answer: C) It’s time to bring people together for guidance or leadership. Example: The leader addressed his team, “It is time to gather your flock and focus on our goals.”
8,899	What does the idiom “He’s a bench warmer” mean? A) He is often left out and doesn’t actively participate. B) He helps the team from behind the scenes. C) He only joins when absolutely necessary. D) He is training to improve his skills. Answer: A) He is often left out and doesn’t actively participate. Example: Despite being on the team, he’s a bench warmer and rarely gets to play.
8,900	What does the idiom “I’m sitting here doing nothing but aging” mean? A) I’m worried about growing older. B) I’m waiting for something exciting to happen. C) I’m reflecting on my past experiences. D) I’m bored and unproductive. Answer: D) I’m bored and unproductive. Example: He complained, “I’m sitting here doing nothing but aging while waiting for the meeting to start.”
8,901	What does the idiom “I’m risking my neck” mean? A) I’m performing a daring stunt. B) I’m taking a break from work. C) I’m putting myself in danger. D) I’m speaking up for someone else. Answer: C) I’m putting myself in danger. Example: By helping the whistleblower, she admitted, “I’m risking my neck for the truth.”
8,902	What does the idiom “I’m not adverse to that” mean? A) I’m not opposed to that idea. B) I strongly dislike that idea. C) I’m indifferent to that suggestion. D) I’m unfamiliar with that concept. Answer: A) I’m not opposed to that idea. Example: When asked if she’d like to join the team, she replied, “I’m not adverse to that; it sounds fun.”
8,903	What does the idiom “I’m just warming the bench” mean? A) I’m practicing for my big chance. B) I’m waiting for the next opportunity to lead. C) I’m helping others prepare for their role. D) I’m temporarily inactive or not participating. Answer: D) I’m temporarily inactive or not participating. Example: “I’m just warming the bench while the starters handle the game,” he said with a shrug.
8,904	What does the idiom “I’m going to nail him” mean? A) I’m going to catch or defeat him. B) I’m going to criticize him harshly. C) I’m going to impress him. D) I’m going to apologize to him. Answer: A) I’m going to catch or defeat him. Example: The detective confidently stated, “I’m going to nail him for the crime he committed.”
8,905	What does the idiom “I’m going to kill you, cook you, and then eat you” mean (figuratively)? A) I’m warning you to stop what you’re doing. B) I’m genuinely angry and threatening harm. C) It is a threat showing that the person wants to destroy the other person. D) I’m praising you for your hard work. Answer: C) It is a threat showing that the person wants to destroy the other person. Example: After finding out what had happened, he said, “I’m going to kill you, cook you, and then eat you for that!”
8,906	What does the idiom “I’m feeling wretched” mean? A) I’m feeling very unwell or miserable. B) I’m feeling extremely happy. C) I’m feeling hopeful about the future. D) I’m feeling confused or disoriented. Answer: A) I’m feeling very unwell or miserable. Example: After staying up all night, she confessed, “I’m feeling wretched and need to rest.”
8,907	What does the idiom “I’ll identify it in 20 keystrokes” mean? A) I’ll have difficulty identifying it. B) I’ll spend a long time researching it. C) I’ll need precise instructions to find it. D) I’ll recognize it quickly with minimal effort. Answer: D) I’ll recognize it quickly with minimal effort. Example: The tech expert confidently said, “I’ll identify it in 20 keystrokes; just give me a moment.”
8,908	What does the idiom “I would rather drink dishwater” mean? A) I’m willing to endure discomfort for something I like. B) I enjoy trying unusual things. C) I dislike something so much that I’d prefer something unpleasant. D) I’m indifferent to what happens. Answer: C) I dislike something so much that I’d prefer something unpleasant. Example: When asked if she liked the new cellphone, she replied, “I would rather drink dishwater than use that again.”
8,909	What does the idiom “I want them fully armed” mean? A) I want them to be completely prepared and equipped. B) I want them to have weapons ready for combat. C) I want them to wear protective gear. D) I want them to raise their hands. Answer: A) I want them to be completely prepared and equipped. Example: Before the debate, the campaign manager said, “I want them fully armed with facts and statistics.”
8,910	What does the idiom “I think you’re bluffing” mean? A) I think you’re joking. B) I think you’re pretending or lying. C) I think you’re making a mistake. D) I think you’re being too cautious. Answer: B) I think you’re pretending or lying. Example: When she threatened to quit, her boss replied, “I think you’re bluffing; you wouldn’t actually leave.”
8,911	What does the idiom “I stood proud, I stood tall” mean? A) I stood in line patiently. B) I avoided taking responsibility. C) I felt confident and unashamed. D) I refused to answer questions. Answer: C) I felt confident and unashamed. Example: After completing the marathon, he said, “I stood proud, I stood tall despite the challenges.”
8,912	What does the idiom “You need to back up, buddy” mean? A) You need to relax and take a break. B) You need to think about your actions. C) You need to reverse your decision. D) You need to move away. Answer: D) You need to move away. Example: When the stranger got too close, he said, “You need to back up, buddy.”
8,913	What does the idiom “I stood high above it all” mean? A) I maintained dignity and avoided petty behavior. B) I climbed to a high position physically. C) I ignored everyone else’s efforts. D) I felt superior to others. Answer: A) I maintained dignity and avoided petty behavior. Example: Despite the chaos around me, I stood high above it all and refused to get involved in arguments.
8,914	What does the idiom “I refuse to shovel coal on the fire of that man’s ego” mean? A) I won’t argue with him. B) I won’t help him with hard work. C) I won’t contribute to his arrogance. D) I won’t apologize for his mistakes. Answer: C) I won’t contribute to his arrogance. Example: She said, “I refuse to shovel coal on the fire of that man’s ego; he already thinks he’s the best.”
8,915	What does the idiom “I need to take a whiz” mean? A) I need to use the bathroom. B) I need to drink water. C) I need to think quickly. D) I need to move fast. Answer: A) I need to use the bathroom. Example: Give me a second; I need to take a whiz before we start the meeting.
8,916	What does the idiom “I need to catch a train” mean? A) I need to focus on a new project. B) I need to complete a task immediately. C) I need to take a break and relax. D) I need to leave quickly to catch public transport. Answer: D) I need to leave quickly to catch public transport. Example: Sorry to cut this meeting short, but I need to catch a train in 15 minutes.
8,917	What does the idiom “I need backup assistance, now” mean? A) I need someone to replace me. B) I need immediate help or support. C) I need to stop what I’m doing. D) I need to undo my recent actions. Answer: B) I need immediate help or support. Example: During the operation, the officer shouted, “I need backup assistance, now!”
8,918	What does the idiom “I can’t wait until I can dump your butt” mean? A) I look forward to ending this relationship. B) I am eager to get rid of unnecessary baggage. C) I want to criticize you harshly. D) I can’t wait to take a break from you. Answer: A) I look forward to ending this relationship. Example: Their constant arguments led her to say, “I can’t wait until I can dump your butt and move on.”
8,919	What does the idiom “I let him down” mean? A) I disappointed him. B) I helped him succeed. C) I avoided helping him. D) I made him angry. Answer: A) I disappointed him. Example: He trusted me with the project, and I let him down by not completing it on time.
8,920	What does the idiom “I had to bail” mean? A) I had to rescue someone in trouble. B) I had to lend money to someone. C) I had to leave suddenly. D) I had to finish the task quickly. Answer: C) I had to leave suddenly. Example: Sorry I missed the rest of the event; I had to bail when my friend called with an emergency.
8,921	What does the idiom “He’s taking a dump” mean? A) He is resting or relaxing. B) He is using the bathroom. C) He is throwing something away. D) He is making a mistake. Answer: B) He is using the bathroom. Example: Give him a minute; he’s taking a dump and will be back soon.
8,922	What does the idiom “I don’t want to jinx it” mean? A) I don’t want to waste time. B) I don’t want to accept the outcome. C) I don’t believe this is possible. D) I don’t want to ruin my good luck by talking about it. Answer: D) I don’t want to ruin my good luck by talking about it. Example: Things are going well, but I don’t want to jinx it by celebrating too early.
8,923	What does the idiom “I can’t take much more” mean? A) I am close to giving up. B) I cannot handle more tasks. C) I am unwilling to accept more responsibility. D) I am feeling very overwhelmed. Answer: D) I am feeling very overwhelmed. Example: After hours of nonstop work, she exclaimed, “I can’t take much more of this stress.”
8,924	What does the idiom “I can’t read you in on this” mean? A) I can’t help you with this problem. B) I can’t explain this information to you. C) I am not authorized to share confidential information with you. D) I can’t trust you with this responsibility. Answer: C) I am not authorized to share confidential information with you. Example: Sorry, I can’t read you in on this; it’s classified.
8,925	What does the idiom “I can live with that” mean? A) I am unwilling to accept this. B) I can tolerate or accept the situation. C) I need time to consider it. D) I disagree strongly with this. Answer: B) I can tolerate or accept the situation. Example: If you need me to start an hour earlier, I can live with that.
8,926	What does the idiom “Holy moly” mean? A) A term used in religious ceremonies. B) A way to address a holy person. C) A phrase for expressing sadness. D) An expression of surprise or amazement. Answer: D) An expression of surprise or amazement. Example: Holy moly, I can’t believe you finished that project so quickly!
8,927	What does the idiom “His whole life is a façade” mean? A) He lives a very glamorous life. B) He pretends to be someone he’s not. C) He hides his true emotions. D) He has a very private life. Answer: B) He pretends to be someone he’s not. Example: Everyone thinks he’s happy, but his whole life is a façade.
8,928	What does the idiom “His mental stability is like a rock” mean? A) He is emotionally strong and resilient. B) He is stubborn and refuses to change. C) He is hard to understand. D) He is very creative and unpredictable. Answer: A) He is emotionally strong and resilient. Example: Despite all the challenges, his mental stability is like a rock.
8,929	What does the term “Hippocratic Oath” refer to? A) A legal contract for doctors. B) A promise made by all scientists. C) A pledge of honesty and truthfulness. D) A vow to uphold ethical medical practices. Answer: D) A vow to uphold ethical medical practices. Example: All doctors must take the Hippocratic Oath before they start practicing medicine.
8,930	What does the idiom “Trial period” mean? A) A phase of uncertainty or difficulty. B) A legal case that lasts for a short time. C) A time to test something before making a final decision. D) A short time given to prove innocence. Answer: C) A time to test something before making a final decision. Example: You can use the software for free during the 30-day trial period.
8,931	What does the phrase “Hi honey” imply? A) A polite greeting to a stranger. B) An affectionate term of endearment. C) A sarcastic way of addressing someone. D) A formal way to start a conversation. Answer: B) An affectionate term of endearment. Example: She greeted him with a smile, “Hi honey, how was your day?”
8,932	What does the idiom “Paid for itself in spades” mean? A) It required a lot of effort to pay for it. B) It was completely paid off in cash. C) It turned out to be very profitable or worth the investment. D) It resulted in significant losses. Answer: C) It turned out to be very profitable or worth the investment. Example: The solar panels paid for themselves in spades within two years of installation.
8,933	What does the idiom “Hey, it right the first time” mean? A) Make sure to fix any mistakes. B) Do your best to avoid errors the first time. C) It’s okay to make multiple attempts. D) Everyone deserves a second chance. Answer: B) Do your best to avoid errors the first time. Example: The carpenter reminded his apprentice, “Measure twice; cut once. Hey, it right the first time.”
8,934	What does the idiom “Here’s the deal” mean? A) This is how you should behave. B) This is the best bargain available. C) Let’s make an agreement. D) This is the truth or important information. Answer: D) This is the truth or important information. Example: Here’s the deal: you can either take the job or let someone else have it.
8,935	What does the idiom “He’s so powerful, he can even move Christmas” mean? A) He has the ability to make miracles happen. B) He is dedicated to celebrating holidays. C) He is extremely influential. D) He is known for helping others during Christmas. Answer: C) He is extremely influential. Example: The CEO is so powerful; he can even move Christmas if it benefits the company.
8,936	What does the idiom “He’s playing God” mean? A) He is acting humble and kind. B) He is making decisions beyond his authority. C) He is participating in religious activities. D) He is helping others generously. Answer: B) He is making decisions beyond his authority. Example: Critics said the scientist was playing God by experimenting with human cloning.
8,937	What does the idiom “He’s on the run” mean? A) He is participating in a race. B) He is working hard to meet deadlines. C) He is fleeing to avoid being caught. D) He is traveling for fun. Answer: C) He is fleeing to avoid being caught. Example: After escaping from prison, he’s on the run and the police are looking for him.
8,938	What does the idiom “He’s lying low right now” mean? A) He is resting at home. B) He is avoiding attention or staying out of sight. C) He is keeping quiet because he’s upset. D) He is pretending to be someone else. Answer: B) He is avoiding attention or staying out of sight. Example: After the scandal, he’s lying low right now to avoid public scrutiny.
8,939	What does the idiom “He’s chasing his past” mean? A) He is trying to relive old memories. B) He is running away from his responsibilities. C) He is looking for something he lost. D) He is avoiding making new connections. Answer: A) He is trying to relive old memories. Example: Instead of focusing on his future, he’s chasing his past and trying to recreate what he once had.
8,940	What does the idiom “He’s breathing down my neck” mean? A) He is standing too close. B) He is putting pressure on me to act quickly. C) He is speaking softly to me. D) He is monitoring me for safety. Answer: B) He is putting pressure on me to act quickly. Example: I can’t focus on the task because my boss is breathing down my neck.
8,941	What does the idiom “He’s battling cancer” mean? A) He is fighting a serious illness. B) He is recovering from surgery. C) He is ignoring health problems. D) He is helping others fight cancer. Answer: A) He is fighting a serious illness. Example: Despite the odds, he’s battling cancer with courage and optimism.
8,942	What does the idiom “He’s a real pit bull” mean? A) He is playful and energetic. B) He is very protective of others. C) He is aggressive and relentless. D) He is shy and introverted. Answer: C) He is aggressive and relentless. Example: As a lawyer, he’s a real pit bull; he never gives up until he wins the case.
8,943	What does the idiom “He’s a bit dodgy” mean? A) He is clumsy or awkward. B) He is playful and cheerful. C) He is very hardworking. D) He is unreliable or suspicious. Answer: D) He is unreliable or suspicious. Example: I wouldn’t trust him with money; he’s a bit dodgy when it comes to handling finances.
8,944	What does the idiom “He went on a spending spree” mean? A) He spent a small, carefully planned amount of money. B) He spent money excessively and impulsively in a short time. C) He refused to spend money despite having enough. D) He saved a lot of money during shopping trips. Answer: B) He spent money excessively and impulsively in a short time. Example: “After winning the lottery, he went on a spending spree, buying a new car, designer clothes, and expensive gadgets.”
8,945	What does the idiom “He wiped my slate clean” mean? A) He forgave my mistakes and gave me a fresh start. B) He erased all evidence of my wrongdoing. C) He taught me how to start over. D) He asked me to do better next time. Answer: A) He forgave my mistakes and gave me a fresh start. Example: After their argument, he wiped my slate clean and we started over as friends.
8,946	What does the idiom “He whipped his butt” mean? A) He ran away quickly. B) He disciplined himself harshly. C) He defeated someone thoroughly. D) He acted carelessly. Answer: C) He defeated someone thoroughly. Example: In the last match, he whipped his opponent’s butt and won by a huge margin.
8,947	What does the idiom “He went on a drinking spree” mean? A) He drank a little more than usual. B) He drank excessively over a short period. C) He visited different bars to explore. D) He avoided drinking for a while. Answer: B) He drank excessively over a short period. Example: After getting the promotion, he went on a drinking spree with his friends.
8,948	What does the idiom “He was knocked out” mean? A) He fell asleep unexpectedly. B) He was overwhelmed by emotions. C) He was removed from the competition. D) He lost consciousness. Answer: D) He lost consciousness. Example: During the boxing match, he was knocked out in the third round.
8,949	What does the idiom “He wants you to say something to the troops” mean? A) He wants you to encourage or motivate the team. B) He wants you to give orders to the soldiers. C) He wants you to criticize the group. D) He wants you to warn everyone about a danger. Answer: A) He wants you to encourage or motivate the team. Example: Before the game started, the coach said, “He wants you to say something to the troops to get them ready.”
8,950	What does the idiom “She turns me on” mean? A) She inspires me creatively. B) She annoys me a lot. C) She makes me feel attracted to her. D) She helps me get started on tasks. Answer: C) She makes me feel attracted to her. Example: Whenever she’s around, I can’t help but feel that she turns me on.
8,951	What does the idiom “He turned on me” mean? A) He betrayed me suddenly. B) He started supporting me. C) He became confused. D) He gave me unexpected help. Answer: A) He betrayed me suddenly. Example: I thought we were allies, but he turned on me when I needed him the most.
8,952	What does the idiom “He’s trying to act macho” mean? A) He is acting shy around others. B) He is pretending to be happy. C) He is behaving overly confidently or tough. D) He is avoiding responsibilities. Answer: C) He is behaving overly confidently or tough. Example: Don’t mind him; he’s just trying to act macho in front of his friends.
8,953	What does the idiom “He still beats himself over that incident” mean? A) He continues to regret the incident deeply. B) He constantly talks about the incident. C) He feels proud of handling the situation. D) He blames others for the incident. Answer: A) He continues to regret the incident deeply. Example: Even years later, he still beats himself over that incident with his former boss.
8,954	What does the idiom “He sold you out” mean? A) He traded something on your behalf. B) He helped you succeed. C) He let you take credit for his work. D) He betrayed you for personal gain. Answer: D) He betrayed you for personal gain. Example: I trusted him, but he sold you out to save his own reputation.
8,955	What does the idiom “He rubbed elbows with some high-powered people” mean? A) He argued with influential people. B) He socialized with important individuals. C) He competed against powerful people. D) He offended someone influential. Answer: B) He socialized with important individuals. Example: At the gala, he rubbed elbows with some high-powered people from the tech industry.
8,956	What does the idiom “He pulled the wool over my eyes” mean? A) He protected me from danger. B) He covered my eyes literally. C) He tricked or deceived me. D) He helped me see the truth. Answer: C) He tricked or deceived me. Example: I thought he was honest, but he pulled the wool over my eyes with those lies.
8,957	What does the idiom “He pulled one over on me” mean? A) He helped me complete a difficult task. B) He deceived or tricked me. C) He worked harder than I expected. D) He made a mistake that affected me. Answer: B) He deceived or tricked me. Example: I trusted him, but he pulled one over on me with that fake contract.
8,958	What does the idiom “He needs a mommy really bad” mean? A) He lacks proper guidance. B) He is overly attached to his mother. C) It is a sarcastic way of saying that the reason this person is acting so bad is because he did not have a good mother to raise him. D) He seeks attention from older women. Answer: C) It is a sarcastic way of saying that the reason this person is acting so bad is because he did not have a good mother to raise him. Example: “I can’t believe he is such a terrible person. He needs a mommy really bad.”
8,959	What does the idiom “He looks really pissed” mean? A) He looks very drunk. B) He looks extremely angry. C) He looks tired or confused. D) He looks disappointed. Answer: B) He looks extremely angry. Example: After hearing the bad news, he looked really pissed and stormed out of the room.
8,960	What does the idiom “He has nothing left to lose” mean? A) He has lost all his belongings. B) He has accepted defeat. C) He feels fearless because he has nothing to protect. D) He is trying to regain what he lost. Answer: C) He feels fearless because he has nothing to protect. Example: After losing his job and family, he felt like he had nothing left to lose.
8,961	What does the idiom “His right hand has a trigger finger” mean? A) He is quick to act violently. B) He has a medical condition on his right hand affecting his finger. C) He constantly plays with guns. D) He points at others frequently. Answer: B) He has a medical condition on his right hand affecting his finger. Example: The doctor explained, “He has a trigger finger, which causes his finger to lock when bent.”
8,962	What does the idiom “He drew his gun on me” mean? A) He sketched a picture of a gun. B) He handed me his gun. C) He aimed his gun at me. D) He talked about his gun. Answer: C) He aimed his gun at me. Example: In the heat of the argument, he drew his gun on me, but thankfully no one was hurt.
8,963	What does the idiom “He doesn’t play well with others” mean? A) He dislikes teamwork. B) He prefers to work alone. C) He gets angry easily in games. D) He has trouble cooperating. Answer: D) He has trouble cooperating. Example: The manager warned, “He’s a skilled worker, but he doesn’t play well with others.”
8,964	What does the idiom “He doesn’t give diddly squat” mean? A) He doesn’t give valuable items. B) He doesn’t care at all. C) He gives too much to others. D) He only gives small amounts. Answer: B) He doesn’t care at all. Example: When asked about the rules, he said, “I don’t give diddly squat about what they think.”
8,965	What does the idiom “He does not know how to live with a mistake” mean? A) He is unable to accept or cope with his errors. B) He is always making mistakes. C) He avoids taking responsibility for mistakes. D) He tries to correct every mistake he makes. Answer: A) He is unable to accept or cope with his errors. Example: After losing the deal, it was clear he does not know how to live with a mistake.
8,966	What does the idiom “He crashed the party” mean? A) He ruined the party completely. B) He came late to the party. C) He attended without being invited. D) He was the star of the party. Answer: C) He attended without being invited. Example: Everyone was surprised when he crashed the party uninvited.
8,967	What does the idiom “He capped off our leader” mean? A) He concluded the leader’s speech. B) He killed or removed the leader. C) He replaced the leader. D) He praised the leader’s efforts. Answer: B) He killed or removed the leader. Example: The shocking news revealed that he capped off our leader during the conflict.
8,968	What does the idiom “He buried him” mean? A) He defeated or ruined him completely. B) He literally buried someone. C) He ignored him completely. D) He saved him from trouble. Answer: A) He defeated or ruined him completely. Example: In the heated debate, he buried him with a series of irrefutable facts.
8,969	What does the idiom “Happy trails” mean? A) See you again soon. B) Follow the trail to find something. C) Be cautious on your journey. D) Safe travels and goodbye. Answer: D) Safe travels and goodbye. Example: As they waved goodbye, she said, “Happy trails, and don’t forget to write!”
8,970	What does the idiom “Good intentions don’t necessarily mean good results” mean? A) Trying hard guarantees success. B) Kind efforts can lead to bad outcomes. C) Success always depends on effort. D) Hard work never pays off. Answer: B) Kind efforts can lead to bad outcomes. Example: He apologized for his mistake, saying, “Good intentions don’t necessarily mean good results.”
8,971	What does the idiom “Gain the upper hand” mean? A) Achieve a physical advantage. B) Be in a stronger or more advantageous position. C) Take control of a business. D) Win a physical fight. Answer: B) Be in a stronger or more advantageous position. Example: With their new strategy, the team gained the upper hand in the competition.
8,972	What does the idiom “Flipping houses” mean? A) Designing houses upside-down. B) Moving houses frequently. C) Renovating and selling houses for profit. D) Knocking down old houses. Answer: C) Renovating and selling houses for profit. Example: She made a fortune flipping houses in the booming real estate market.
8,973	What does the idiom “Fair enough” mean? A) That is reasonable or acceptable. B) I disagree completely. C) That is somewhat unfair. D) It’s impossible to decide. Answer: A) That is reasonable or acceptable. Example: When he explained why he couldn’t attend the meeting, she replied, “Fair enough.”
8,974	What does the idiom “Eurotrash” mean? A) A style of design from Europe. B) Europeans who move to other countries. C) Trash left behind by tourists from Europe. D) A derogatory term for European stereotypes associated with wealth and arrogance. Answer: D) A derogatory term for European stereotypes associated with wealth and arrogance. Example: The character in the movie was portrayed as a flashy Eurotrash playboy.
8,975	What does the idiom “Empty nester” mean? A) A bird without a nest. B) A parent whose children have grown up and left home. C) A person who lives alone in a big house. D) A family without a place to live. Answer: B) A parent whose children have grown up and left home. Example: After their youngest child left for college, they officially became empty nesters.
8,976	What does the idiom “Drop your nonsense” mean? A) Stop saying or doing silly or foolish things. B) Stop working on unnecessary tasks. C) Quit being overly serious. D) Let go of your belongings. Answer: A) Stop saying or doing silly or foolish things. Example: The teacher firmly told the students, “Drop your nonsense and focus on the lesson.”
8,977	What does the idiom “Don’t let him get under your skin” mean? A) Don’t let him harm you physically. B) Don’t let him annoy or bother you. C) Don’t let him take over your responsibilities. D) Don’t let him deceive you. Answer: B) Don’t let him annoy or bother you. Example: When the bully started teasing her, her friend said, “Don’t let him get under your skin.”
8,978	What does the idiom “Don’t get cocky” mean? A) Don’t become overly cautious. B) Don’t act nervous. C) Don’t ask unnecessary questions. D) Don’t become overconfident. Answer: D) Don’t become overconfident. Example: The coach warned his team, “We may be winning, but don’t get cocky; there’s still time left.”
8,979	What does the idiom “Don’t everyone rush to speak (sarcasm)” mean? A) An invitation for everyone to talk at once. B) A sarcastic comment when nobody is speaking. C) A way to request silence. D) A warning to avoid arguments. Answer: B) A sarcastic comment when nobody is speaking. Example: When the room fell silent after his question, he quipped, “Don’t everyone rush to speak at once!”
8,980	What does the idiom “Dog gone it” mean? A) A way to express mild frustration or annoyance. B) A phrase used when a dog is missing. C) A term for giving up on something. D) A phrase showing relief. Answer: A) A way to express mild frustration or annoyance. Example: Dog gone it, I forgot to bring my keys again!
8,981	What does the idiom “He’s the comeback kid” mean? A) He often fails and gives up. B) He’s known for making a successful return after setbacks. C) He constantly moves back to the same place. D) He avoids failure altogether. Answer: B) He’s known for making a successful return after setbacks. Example: After losing the election and bouncing back to win, everyone called him the comeback kid.
8,982	What does the idiom “Deal or die” mean? A) Negotiate or leave. B) Choose between two undesirable options. C) Take the opportunity or face failure. D) Accept defeat gracefully. Answer: C) Take the opportunity or face failure. Example: In the fast-paced business world, it’s often deal or die if you want to stay ahead.
8,983	What does the idiom “Dead clade walking” mean? A) A group or species that is extinct. B) A group that initially survived a mass extinction event but will still become extinct. C) A group making a surprising comeback. D) A group without a leader. Answer: B) A group that initially survived a mass extinction event but will still become extinct. Example: His company survived the 2008 economic crash, but his company is still a dead clade walking.
8,984	What does the idiom “Charging from the gate” mean? A) Blocking someone’s progress. B) Moving recklessly without planning. C) Leaving a place quickly. D) Starting something with great energy or enthusiasm. Answer: D) Starting something with great energy or enthusiasm. Example: The team was charging from the gate, determined to win the championship.
8,985	What does the idiom “Change is a process” mean? A) Change happens suddenly. B) Change requires time and effort. C) Change is unavoidable. D) Change often occurs without notice. Answer: B) Change requires time and effort. Example: She encouraged her team by saying, “Change is a process; we just need to stay consistent.”
8,986	What does the idiom “Case closed” mean? A) A mystery has been solved. B) A case has been dismissed by the court. C) A trial is about to start. D) Evidence has been destroyed. Answer: A) A mystery has been solved. Example: After the confession, the detective declared, “Case closed.”
8,987	What does the idiom “Business is business” mean? A) Business is more important than personal relationships. B) Business dealings should always be strict. C) In order for a business to be successful, it may be necessary to do things that could upset or hurt people. D) Every business must make a profit. Answer: C) In order for a business to be successful, it may be necessary to do things that could upset or hurt people. Example: He apologized to his friend, saying, “I had to let you go; business is business.”
8,988	What does the phrase “Birds cawing” mean? A) An eerie or unsettling atmosphere. B) A literal reference to birds making noise. C) A peaceful and calming sound. D) A sign of impending danger. Answer: B) A literal reference to birds making noise. Example: As dawn broke, the only sound was birds cawing in the trees.
8,989	What does the idiom “Bending the rules” mean? A) Changing the rules entirely. B) Interpreting the rules loosely without fully breaking them. C) Ignoring the rules completely. D) Adding new rules. Answer: B) Interpreting the rules loosely without fully breaking them. Example: The referee was accused of bending the rules to favor the home team.
8,990	What does the idiom “As far as the east is from the west” mean? A) Endless in scope. B) Opposite in every way. C) Difficult to measure. D) Very far apart. Answer: D) Very far apart. Example: Their opinions on politics were as far as the east is from the west.
8,991	What does the idiom “Are you approaching anything resembling a point” mean? A) Are you making any sense? B) Are you trying to make a joke? C) Are you close to finishing your statement? D) Are you asking a question? Answer: C) Are you close to finishing your statement? Example: Growing impatient, she interrupted, “Are you approaching anything resembling a point?”
8,992	What does the idiom “Accessory after the fact” mean? A) Someone who unknowingly helps after a crime. B) Someone who assists a criminal after the crime is committed. C) An item that becomes useful later. D) An accidental involvement in a crime. Answer: B) Someone who assists a criminal after the crime is committed. Example: The person who hid the stolen goods was charged as an accessory after the fact.
8,993	What does the idiom “A fool is born every minute” mean? A) Foolish people are rare. B) Everyone acts foolish at least once in their life. C) People make one mistake per minute. D) Foolish people are everywhere and easy to deceive. Answer: D) Foolish people are everywhere and easy to deceive. Example: The scam artist shrugged and said, “A fool is born every minute,” after another victim fell for his tricks.
8,994	What does the idiom “10 seconds flat” mean? A) Exactly 10 seconds. B) A very short amount of time. C) More time than expected. D) A time limit with no exceptions. Answer: A) Exactly 10 seconds. Example: He sprinted the 100 meters in 10 seconds flat, setting a new record.
8,995	What does the idiom “New York: the land of contradictions” mean? A) New York is a confusing place to navigate. B) New York is a land of constant conflict. C) New York leaders say one thing but do the opposite. D) New York is full of people who argue. Answer: C) New York leaders say one thing but do the opposite. Example: The New York leaders say that they want to be tough on crime, but they require the police to release almost all criminals an hour after they are arrested.
8,996	What does the idiom “Have you lost your mind” mean? A) Are you okay? B) Are you acting irrationally? C) Did you forget something important? D) Did you hit your head? Answer: B) Are you acting irrationally? Example: When he suggested quitting his stable job, his friend asked, “Have you lost your mind?”
8,997	What does the idiom “I don’t mean to pry” mean? A) I don’t want to take your belongings. B) I don’t want to open a locked door. C) I don’t want to get involved. D) I don’t want to be rude by asking personal questions. Answer: D) I don’t want to be rude by asking personal questions. Example: She hesitated before asking, “I don’t mean to pry, but why did you leave the party so early?”
8,998	What does the idiom “Well, I may have had a cup or five of coffee” mean? A) I drank one or two cups of coffee. B) I drank way too much coffee. C) I didn’t drink any coffee. D) I’m unsure how many cups of coffee I had. Answer: B) I drank way too much coffee. Example: When asked why she was so jittery, she replied, “Well, I may have had a cup or five of coffee.”
8,999	What does the idiom “I laughed so hard, I almost peed my pants” mean? A) I found something slightly amusing. B) I couldn’t stop laughing, but it wasn’t funny. C) I laughed uncontrollably. D) I felt embarrassed while laughing. Answer: C) I laughed uncontrollably. Example: The comedian’s joke was so hilarious, I laughed so hard, I almost peed my pants.
9,000	What does the idiom “It’s a black site” mean? A) A mysterious location. B) A secret or covert facility, often government-run. C) An area covered in darkness. D) A place that is under constant surveillance. Answer: B) A secret or covert facility, often government run. Example: The journalist uncovered evidence that suggested the facility was a black site used for interrogations.
9,001	What does the idiom “Keep out the riffraff” mean? A) Maintain strict silence in the room. B) Ensure no one speaks loudly. C) Keep everyone inside a specific area. D) Prevent uninvited guests from entering. Answer: D) Prevent uninvited guests from entering. Example: The security measures were put in place to keep out the riffraff during the exclusive event.
9,002	What does the idiom “Wheels down in 30 minutes” mean? A) The car will leave in 30 minutes. B) The team will start work in 30 minutes. C) The plane will land in 30 minutes. D) The wheels are ready for use in 30 minutes. Answer: C) The plane will land in 30 minutes. Example: The pilot announced, “Wheels down in 30 minutes, so please prepare for landing.”
9,003	What does the idiom “I almost came home in a box” mean? A) I barely avoided losing a package. B) I nearly died during a dangerous situation. C) I had a terrible experience. D) I narrowly escaped injury. Answer: B) I nearly died during a dangerous situation. Example: After the firefight, he confided, “I almost came home in a box, but I made it out alive.”
9,004	What does the idiom “We went to the farm together” mean? A) We retired together. B) We were sent on a secret mission. C) We worked on a farming operation. D) We trained at the CIA headquarters. Answer: D) We trained together at the CIA headquarters. Example: Reflecting on their early years, he said, “We went to the farm together before being assigned overseas.”
9,005	What does the idiom “He was pulled from the field” mean? A) He was injured while working. B) He quit his job suddenly. C) He was removed from active duty or a task. D) He completed his assignment successfully. Answer: C) He was removed from active duty or a task. Example: After the mission went south, he was pulled from the field for reassignment.
9,006	What does the idiom “The universe is trying to tell you something” mean? A) Nature is sending you messages. B) You are imagining things. C) Everything in the world has a purpose. D) Events are offering guidance or a lesson. Answer: D) Events are offering guidance or a lesson. Example: When everything went wrong, she said, “The universe is trying to tell you something; maybe it’s time to change your plans.”
9,007	What does the idiom “Your best teacher is your last mistake” mean? A) Mistakes help you learn important lessons. B) Teachers are prone to making mistakes. C) You can only learn through repeated failures. D) Your past actions should be ignored. Answer: A) Mistakes help you learn important lessons. Example: After his error in the presentation, he reflected, “Your best teacher is your last mistake.”
9,008	What does the idiom “What do you want, chucklehead?” mean? A) A friendly way to greet someone. B) An insult directed at someone perceived as foolish. C) A way to ask for help. D) A term of endearment for a friend. Answer: B) An insult directed at someone perceived as foolish. Example: Frustrated, the man turned to his coworker and said, “What do you want, chucklehead?”
9,009	What does the idiom “In over my head” mean? A) I am very confident. B I’m in a basement C) I am swimming. D) I am deeply involved in something too difficult to handle. Answer: D) I am deeply involved in something too difficult to handle. Example: “I thought I could manage the project, but now I’m in over my head.”
9,010	What does the idiom “If you lose your head, they stop talking (interrogation)” mean? A) Yelling ensures better answers. B) Staying calm helps the suspect escape. C) Losing control ruins the interrogation. D) Ignoring them will stop the interrogation. Answer: C) Losing control ruins the interrogation. Example: The detective reminded his team, “If you lose your head, they stop talking; it’s all about staying calm.”
9,011	What does the idiom “You need to take the shot” mean? A) You need to seize the opportunity. B) You should practice your aim. C) You must follow the rules. D) You should take a rest. Answer: A) You need to seize the opportunity. Example: When the chance came to speak up, she said, “You need to take the shot while you have it.”
9,012	What does the idiom “I already picked flowers for your funeral” mean? A) I planned to visit your grave. B) I was joking about your poor luck. C) I was thinking of giving you a gift. D) It is a threat to let a person know that if they do not cooperate, you are going to kill them or do great harm to them. Answer: D) It is a threat to let a person know that if they do not cooperate, you are going to kill them or do great harm to them. Example: The leader of a major criminal group said to one of his workers, “I’ve already picked out flowers for your funeral. I strongly suggest that you change your ways.”
9,013	What does the idiom “I was going to fit you for a head bag” mean? A) I was going to give you a hat. B) I was going to threaten or harm you. C) I was going to play a prank on you. D) I was going to make you wear a disguise. Answer: B) I was going to threaten or harm you. Example: The mob boss sneered, “I was going to fit you for a head bag, but you came through with the money.”
9,014	What does the idiom “Once you start a coverup, there is no turning back” mean? A) Coverups always succeed. B) It’s hard to stop lying once you start. C) You can always undo your actions. D) You’ll have to keep covering up indefinitely. Answer: D) You’ll have to keep covering up indefinitely. Example: He warned his colleague, “Once you start a coverup, there is no turning back; it only gets worse.”
9,015	What does the idiom “They got smoked by the rival team” mean? A) They narrowly won the game. B) They played a tie game. C) They were completely defeated. D) They won by a huge margin. Answer: C) They were completely defeated. Example: Our team wasn’t prepared, and they got smoked by the rival team in the finals.
9,016	What does the idiom “I’m going to send you to the showers” mean? A) I’m going to make you clean up. B) I’m going to bench or remove you from the game. C) I’m going to give you a break. D) I’m going to let you relax. Answer: B) I’m going to bench or remove you from the game. Example: After his third strikeout, the coach told him, “I’m going to send you to the showers.”
9,017	What does the idiom “Sweet” mean in casual speech? A) Innocent or naive. B) Overly sugary in taste. C) Very pleasant or excellent. D) Unimportant or small. Answer: C) Very pleasant or excellent. Example: When I showed him my new car, he just said, “Sweet!”
9,018	What does the idiom “He cleans up nice” mean? A) He is good at cleaning. B) He is skilled at organizing things. C) He behaves nicely in public. D) He looks well-groomed when he makes an effort. Answer: D) He looks well-groomed when he makes an effort. Example: Even though he’s usually in scruffy clothes, he cleans up nice for formal events.
9,019	What does the idiom “He got put away a year ago” mean? A) He moved away to another place. B) He was arrested and imprisoned. C) He retired from his job. D) He went on a vacation. Answer: B) He was arrested and imprisoned. Example: He got put away a year ago for robbery and is serving a five-year sentence.
9,020	What does the idiom “Maybe the Big Man gave me a second chance” mean? A) A powerful person in authority helped me. B) A higher power or God gave me another opportunity. C) My manager decided to overlook my mistake. D) A friend helped me fix a problem. Answer: B) A higher power or God gave me another opportunity. Example: After recovering from the accident, he reflected, “Maybe the Big Man gave me a second chance to make things right.”
9,021	What does the idiom “Look for him on COTIS” mean? A) Check for him in the local area. B) Verify his details in public records. C) Track his movements through CCTV. D) Search for his record in the Criminal Offender Tracking System. Answer: D) Search for his record in the Criminal Offender Tracking System. Example: The officer said, “Look for him on COTIS and see if there’s any history we should know about.”
9,022	What does the idiom “We need to put out a BOLO on him” mean? A) We need to broadcast a missing person alert. B) We need to warn the public about him. C) We need to issue a police alert to locate him. D) We need to contact his family for information. Answer: C) We need to issue a police alert to locate him. Example: The sergeant instructed, “We need to put out a BOLO on him before he skips town.”
9,023	What does the idiom “We need to run his prints” mean? A) We need to make copies of his documents. B) We need to check his fingerprints for identification. C) We need to find his physical records. D) We need to photograph him. Answer: B) We need to check his fingerprints for identification. Example: The detective said, “We need to run his prints to confirm if he’s been involved in other cases.”
9,024	What does the idiom “If she doesn’t testify, he walks” mean? A) He will go home if she refuses to testify. B) She will be blamed if she doesn’t testify. C) He will walk out of court with her. D) He will be free from charges if she doesn’t testify. Answer: D) He will be free from charges if she doesn’t testify. Example: The prosecutor emphasized, “If she doesn’t testify, he walks, and justice won’t be served.”
9,025	What does the idiom “Just keep it professional” mean? A) Focus on your personal feelings. B) Stay serious and avoid casual talk. C) Maintain a respectful and work-focused approach. D) Avoid breaking any workplace rules. Answer: C) Maintain a respectful and work-focused approach. Example: During the heated meeting, the manager reminded everyone, “Just keep it professional.”
9,026	What does the idiom “I’ll make sure your cooperation carries weight” mean? A) Your help will have a significant impact. B) I’ll make sure that the people in power understand how you helped me. C) Your actions will lead to consequences. D) Your efforts will be physically demanding. Answer: B) I’ll make sure that the people in power understand how you helped me. Example: The detective reassured the witness, “I’ll make sure your cooperation carries weight with the judge.”
9,027	What does the idiom “Your mind can create Heaven or Hell” mean? A) Your thoughts determine your experience. B) Your imagination has no limits. C) Heaven and hell are psychological concepts. D) Thinking too much can cause chaos. Answer: A) Your thoughts determine your experience. Example: She often tells her clients, “Your mind can create Heaven or Hell, depending on how you choose to perceive life.”
9,028	What does the idiom “Don’t cross any lines” mean? A) Avoid stepping into dangerous areas. B) Respect boundaries and rules. C) Don’t argue with authority. D) Keep away from other people’s paths. Answer: B) Respect boundaries and rules. Example: The boss warned them during the project, “Don’t cross any lines, or there will be consequences.”
9,029	What does the idiom “Do you want to compare body counts” mean? A) Compete over who is stronger. B) Argue about who has won more battles. C) Compare achievements in a competitive sense. D) To discuss the amount of damage he has done to the enemy in the past. Answer: D) To discuss the amount of damage he has done to the enemy in the past. Example: In the heated debate about who was a better warrior, one soldier sarcastically said, “Do you want to compare body counts?”
9,030	What does the idiom “I got turned onto this a couple years ago” mean? A) I learned to dislike this recently. B) I became interested in this a few years ago. C) I started disliking this a couple of years ago. D) I stumbled upon this by mistake. Answer: B) I became interested in this a few years ago. Example: I got turned onto this hobby a couple of years ago, and now I can’t stop collecting vintage cameras.
9,031	What does the idiom “He is quietly selling” mean? A) He is selling without advertising. B) He is gaining influence without drawing attention. C) He is working at a small market stall. D) He is selling things illegally. Answer: B) He is gaining influence without drawing attention. Example: In meetings, he doesn’t boast, but he is quietly selling his ideas to the team.
9,032	What does the idiom “Why settle with fine, when you can do great” mean? A) Always strive for greatness instead of mediocrity. B) Accept whatever you can achieve. C) Fine is better than failing. D) Avoid setting high expectations. Answer: A) Always strive for greatness instead of mediocrity. Example: She pushes her students, saying, “Why settle with fine, when you can do great?”
9,033	What does the idiom “There’s often a price for the work that we do” mean? A) Hard work always pays off. B) Some high stress and dangerous jobs often comes with sacrifices. C) Every job has a specific salary. D) The cost of doing work is high. Answer: B) Some high stress and dangerous jobs often comes with sacrifices. Example: As a doctor, she knew there was often a price for the work that we do, including long hours and emotional tolls.
9,034	What does the idiom “He has an arm like a cannon” mean? A) He is very strong. B) He is an excellent pitcher or thrower. C) He uses weapons frequently. D) He works out often. Answer: B) He is an excellent pitcher or thrower. Example: The quarterback has an arm like a cannon; his throws cover incredible distances.
9,035	What does the idiom “I take no one at their word” mean? A) I trust everyone without evidence. B) I believe people after hearing their explanation. C) I verify everything before trusting someone. D) I give people second chances to explain themselves. Answer: C) I verify everything before trusting someone. Example: In business dealings, James takes no one at their word; he always double-checks the facts before proceeding.
9,036	What does the idiom “I would lose my shield if I did that” mean? A) I would lose my job as a police officer. B) I would be reassigned to another department. C) I would lose my badge and authority. D) I would lose respect from my peers. Answer: C) I would lose my badge and authority. Example: If I covered up that crime, I’d lose my shield and be dishonorably discharged.
9,037	What does the idiom “That was an embarrassing chapter in my life” mean? A) A proud moment in the past. B) A significant but shameful period in someone’s life. C) A boring time in life. D) A mysterious part of someone’s story. Answer: B) A significant but shameful period in someone’s life. Example: When I think back to my failed business venture, I realize that was an embarrassing chapter in my life.
9,038	What does the idiom “He hasn’t even got a jaywalking ticket” imply? A) He doesn’t cross streets often. B) He is scared of getting fined. C) He has never encountered a police officer. D) He is cautious and law-abiding in all aspects of life. Answer: D) He is cautious and law-abiding in all aspects of life. Example: Claire’s spotless record goes beyond driving; she hasn’t even got a jaywalking ticket.
9,039	What does the idiom “jaywalking” mean? A) Walking through a park or open area. B) Crossing the street illegally or without following traffic rules. C) Walking on a sidewalk in a careless manner. D) Avoiding pedestrian crossings completely. Answer: B) Crossing the street illegally or without following traffic rules. Example: “He was fined for jaywalking after crossing the street in the middle of traffic without using the crosswalk.”
9,040	What does the idiom “He doesn’t even have a parking ticket” mean? A) He drives recklessly. B) He is very law-abiding. C) He doesn’t own a car. D) He dislikes paying fines. Answer: B) He is very law-abiding. Example: The police chief said, “I do not think that he committed this crime. He is very law-abiding; he doesn’t even have a parking ticket.”
9,041	What does the idiom “I need to tie up a few loose ends” mean? A) I need to fix some mistakes I made. B) I need to finish small, unfinished tasks. C) I need to clear up misunderstandings. D) I need to reconnect with old friends. Answer: B) I need to finish small, unfinished tasks. Example: “Before I leave for vacation, I need to tie up a few loose ends at work.”
9,042	What does the idiom “The countdown has already started” mean? A) An unexpected change is about to occur. B) The timer has been reset for a new event. C) A decision has already been made. D) There is a limited amount of time left before something happens. Answer: D) There is a limited amount of time left before something happens. Example: “The countdown has already started for the big presentation—we have only three days to prepare.”
9,043	What does the idiom “I am dog tired” mean? A) I am extremely exhausted. B) I am feeling bored and restless. C) I am slightly annoyed. D) I am ready to start working again. Answer: A) I am extremely exhausted. Example: “After working a double shift, I came home and said, ‘I am dog tired and need to sleep.’”
9,044	What does the idiom “It’s time for you to move on” mean? A) It’s time to physically leave. B) It’s time to advance in your career. C) It’s time to let go of the past and focus on the future. D) It’s time to accept a new challenge. Answer: C) It’s time to let go of the past and focus on the future. Example: “You’ve been dwelling on this mistake for too long—it’s time for you to move on.”
9,045	What does the idiom “It’s time for you to turn the page” mean? A) It’s time to read something new. B) It’s time to move past a difficult experience and start fresh. C) It’s time to change your opinion. D) It’s time to finish what you started. Answer: B) It’s time to move past a difficult experience and start fresh. Example: “After her breakup, her friend said, ‘It’s time for you to turn the page and focus on yourself.’”
9,046	What does the idiom “He can hold his own” mean? A) He is independent and doesn’t need help. B) He is strong and can lift heavy objects. C) He is stubborn and refuses to cooperate. D) He is unable to keep up with others. Answer: A) He is independent and doesn’t need help. Example: “Don’t worry about him in the competition—he can hold his own against anyone.”
9,047	What does the idiom “Well-traveled” mean? A) Someone who prefers road trips over flights. B) Someone who walks long distances often. C) Someone who is an expert in geography. D) Someone who has visited many places. Answer: D) Someone who has visited many places. Example: “He shared fascinating stories about his adventures—he’s a well-traveled individual.”
9,048	What does the idiom “Did everything go smoothly?” mean? A) Did everything happen without any problems? B) Did everyone agree on the plan? C) Did the task get completed quickly? D) Did everything turn out as expected? Answer: A) Did everything happen without any problems? Example: “After the meeting, she asked, ‘Did everything go smoothly, or were there issues?’”
9,049	What does the idiom “He’s just full of devil” mean? A) He is behaving cruelly. B) He is mischievous and playful. C) He is highly energetic. D) He is feeling angry or frustrated. Answer: B) He is mischievous and playful. Example: “The little boy played pranks all day—he’s just full of devil, isn’t he?”
9,050	What does the idiom “He holds all the cards” mean? A) He is keeping all the opportunities to himself. B) He knows everyone’s secrets. C) He is responsible for making decisions. D) He has the advantage or control in a situation. Answer: D) He has the advantage or control in a situation. Example: “In this negotiation, he holds all the cards since we need his support.”
9,051	What does the idiom “We need to warm up the lawyers” mean? A) We need to prepare for possible legal action. B) We need to inform the lawyers of an upcoming case. C) We need to discuss legal details thoroughly. D) We need to finalize the legal paperwork. Answer: A) We need to prepare for possible legal action. Example: “With the threat of a lawsuit, the CEO said, ‘We need to warm up the lawyers just in case.’”
9,052	What does the idiom “Where did you disappear to (thinking)” mean? A) Where did your attention wander? B) Where did you physically go? C) Why are you avoiding the conversation? D) Why are you lost in confusion? Answer: A) Where did your attention wander? Example: “In the middle of our discussion, he looked distracted, so I asked, ‘Where did you disappear to?’”
9,053	What does the idiom “Will I go gently into the night” mean? A) Will I succeed in overcoming obstacles? B) Will I avoid making unnecessary noise? C) Will I accept death or challenges calmly and without resistance? D) Will I retreat when things get difficult? Answer: C) Will I accept death or challenges calmly and without resistance? Example: “Facing his illness, he wondered aloud, ‘Will I go gently into the night, or will I fight until the end?’”
9,054	What does the idiom “You need to take some calcium” in a business setting mean? A) You need to stay calm under pressure. B) You need to relax and avoid stress. C) You need to improve your health. D) You need to be stronger and braver. Answer: D) You need to be stronger and braver. Example: “When she hesitated to speak up, her friend joked, ‘You need to take some calcium and show courage.’”
9,055	What does the idiom “Everyone hung on his every word” mean? A) Everyone was completely captivated by what he said. B) Everyone criticized what he said. C) Everyone misunderstood his message. D) Everyone repeated his words later. Answer: A) Everyone was completely captivated by what he said. Example: “As the famous author spoke, the audience hung on his every word.”
9,056	What does the idiom “I want to be your backdoor man” mean? A) I want to fix things for you behind the scenes. B) I want to be your main source of support. C) A man who commits adultery with a married woman by sneaking in the back door. D) I want to be your alternative plan. Answer: C) A man who commits adultery with a married woman by sneaking in the back door. Example: “In the old blues song, the singer said, ‘I want to be your backdoor man,’ hinting at a secret relationship.”
9,057	What does the idiom “He has bent and readied his bow” mean? A) He is prepared for action or a challenge. B) He is about to give up on something. C) He is focused on improving his skills. D) He is practicing archery. Answer: A) He is prepared for action or a challenge. Example: “With the competition starting soon, he has bent and readied his bow for the big day.”
9,058	What does the idiom “This holiday will be low-key” mean? A) The holiday will be planned in secret. B) The holiday will involve minimal expenses. C) The holiday will have no special celebrations. D) The holiday will be simple and relaxed. Answer: D) The holiday will be simple and relaxed. Example: “After a busy year, we decided this holiday will be low-key, with just close family.”
9,059	What does the idiom “Sedentary lifestyle” mean? A) A lifestyle focused on improving health. B) A life spent traveling constantly. C) A lifestyle with minimal physical activity. D) A routine that involves frequent changes. Answer: C) A lifestyle with minimal physical activity. Example: “He gained weight because his sedentary lifestyle involved sitting at a desk all day.”
9,060	What does the idiom “It’s a real pain” mean? A) It’s extremely inconvenient or troublesome. B) It’s something that causes physical discomfort. C) It’s an unusual problem to solve. D) It’s a challenge that’s rewarding to overcome. Answer: A) It’s extremely inconvenient or troublesome. Example: “Filing all this paperwork is a real pain, but it has to be done.”
9,061	What does the idiom “No trouble at all” mean? A) Completely avoiding work. B) Avoiding any form of confrontation. C) Refusing to take on any responsibility. D) It’s not a big deal; happy to help. Answer: D) It’s not a big deal; happy to help. Example: “When he thanked me for helping with the presentation, I said, ‘No trouble at all.’”
9,062	What does the idiom “Well versed” mean? A) Able to perform tasks quickly. B) Interested in poetry or literature. C) Skilled or knowledgeable in a particular area. D) Open to learning new skills. Answer: C) Skilled or knowledgeable in a particular area. Example: “She is well versed in classical music and can identify any composer by listening.”
9,063	What does the idiom “That’ll be all” mean? A) That’s everything I need for now. B) There’s nothing more to say. C) Please leave immediately. D) This is the only thing I want. Answer: A) That’s everything I need for now. Example: “The waiter asked if I needed anything else, and I replied, ‘That’ll be all, thank you.’”
9,064	What does the idiom “Do you fancy a drink” mean? A) Do you prefer a specific type of drink? B) Do you want to go out for a drink? C) Do you collect fancy drinks? D) Are you ready to share a drink? Answer: B) Do you want to go out for a drink? Example: “After a long day at work, she asked, ‘Do you fancy a drink to unwind?’”
9,065	What does the idiom “I need a smidgen more” mean? A) I need to rethink my request. B) I need a lot more. C) I need to start over. D) I need a little bit more. Answer: D) I need a little bit more. Example: “The recipe calls for a smidgen more salt to perfect the flavor.”
9,066	What does the idiom “I need to see all sides of it” mean? A) I need to understand all perspectives before deciding. B) I need to focus on the smallest details. C) I need to consider only my opinion. D) I need to observe how others respond. Answer: A) I need to understand all perspectives before deciding. Example: “Before making a decision, I need to see all sides of it to avoid any bias.”
9,067	What does the idiom “What does ECT mean?” refer to? A) A casual way of asking for clarification. B) A medical term referring to electroconvulsive therapy. C) A shorthand for a popular expression. D) A way to ask for examples in a conversation. Answer: B) A medical term referring to electroconvulsive therapy. Example: “The patient was scared when he heard ECT. He said that he did not want them trying to correct his mental problems by sending large doses of electrical shocks to his brain.”
9,068	What does the idiom “We’re at the pinnacle” mean? A) We’re beginning a new chapter. B) We’re at the point of greatest difficulty. C) We’re at the peak of success or achievement. D) We’re facing the lowest point of failure. Answer: C) We’re at the peak of success or achievement. Example: “After years of hard work, the company is at the pinnacle of its industry.”
9,069	In Australia, what does the idiom “Was she interfered with?” mean? A) Was she interrupted while doing something? B) Was she sexually harmed or assaulted? C) Was she involved in a conflict? D) Was she misunderstood by others? Answer: B) Was she sexually harmed or assaulted? Example: “The detective hesitated before asking, ‘Was she interfered with during the incident?’”
9,070	What does the idiom “When death comes knocking” mean? A) When someone is nearing the end of their life. B) When an opportunity arises unexpectedly. C) When someone faces a major life decision. D) When a tragic event occurs suddenly. Answer: A) When someone is nearing the end of their life. Example: “He reflected on his life when death came knocking during his illness.”
9,071	What does the idiom “The big guys (Christmas season)” mean? A) People with the most authority or influence during the season. B) Santa Clause. C) Large decorations put up during Christmas. D) Individuals responsible for managing events. Answer: B) Santa Clause. Example: “The big guys always release their Christmas ads early to grab attention.”
9,072	What does the idiom “Handsome devil” mean? A) Someone who is surprisingly well-dressed. B) A mischievous person who causes trouble. C) A very attractive and charming person. D) Someone who hides their true nature. Answer: C) A very attractive and charming person. Example: “He walked into the party, and everyone turned to look at that handsome devil.”
9,073	What does the idiom “It slipped my mind” mean? A) I forgot something temporarily. B) I avoided thinking about something. C) I misunderstood the situation. D) I intentionally ignored something important. Answer: A) I forgot something temporarily. Example: “I was supposed to bring the report, but it slipped my mind.”
9,074	What does the idiom “Don’t get your panties in a wad” mean? A) Don’t waste time worrying about small details. B) Don’t act stubborn or rigid. C) Don’t jump to conclusions. D) Don’t get overly upset or anxious. Answer: D) Don’t get overly upset or anxious. Example: “Relax, it’s just a minor mistake—don’t get your panties in a wad.”
9,075	What does the idiom “Hey, sport” mean? A) A way to start a formal conversation. B) A way to address an athlete specifically. C) A way to greet someone in a playful or affectionate manner. D) A way to encourage someone to participate in sports. Answer: C) A way to greet someone in a playful or affectionate manner. Example: “Hey, sport, how was school today?” the father asked with a smile.
9,076	What does the idiom “Knickknacks” mean? A) Small decorative objects or trinkets. B) Tools used for repairing something. C) Items of great monetary value. D) Pieces of old clothing or fabric. Answer: A) Small decorative objects or trinkets. Example: “Her shelves were filled with knickknacks she had collected from her travels.”
9,077	What does the idiom “If you can’t do the time, then don’t do the crime” mean? A) Don’t judge others for their mistakes. B) Avoid wasting time on unnecessary actions. C) Always ask for forgiveness after a mistake. D) Don’t commit a crime if you aren’t prepared to face the punishment. Answer: D) Don’t commit a crime if you aren’t prepared to face the punishment. Example: “He regretted his actions, but as they say, if you can’t do the time, then don’t do the crime.”
9,078	What does the idiom “An honest day’s work” mean? A) A day dedicated to learning new skills. B) A day spent doing easy and simple tasks. C) A full day of productive labor done with integrity. D) A day spent helping others without payment. Answer: C) A full day of productive labor done with integrity. Example: “He returned home tired but proud after an honest day’s work at the construction site.”
9,079	What does the idiom “She has some control issues” mean? A) She struggles to control her emotions. B) She has a strong need to dominate or manage situations. C) She avoids taking responsibility. D) She is highly disorganized and chaotic. Answer: B) She has a strong need to dominate or manage situations. Example: “She insisted on handling every detail herself—she has some serious control issues.”
9,080	What does the idiom “I need to use the can” mean? A) I need to leave the room. B) I need to go to the bathroom. C) I need to check on something. D) I need to take a short break. Answer: B) I need to go to the bathroom. Example: “Excuse me for a moment—I need to use the can before we continue.”
9,081	What does the idiom “It slipped my memory” mean? A) I temporarily forgot something. B) I intentionally ignored something. C) I misunderstood something. D) I chose not to think about something. Answer: A) I temporarily forgot something. Example: “I’m sorry I forgot to call you back—it completely slipped my memory.”
9,082	What does the idiom “This place is starting to remind me of Branch Davidians” mean? A) The place is becoming organized and structured. B) The place feels like a cult or a group with extreme beliefs. C) The place is full of diverse activities. D) The place feels very peaceful and serene. Answer: B) The place feels like a cult or a group with extreme beliefs. Example: “With everyone following the leader blindly, this place is starting to remind me of Branch Davidians.”
9,083	What does the idiom “I lost my train of thought” mean? A) I made a critical error in judgment. B) I missed an important opportunity. C) I forgot what I was going to say. D) I changed my mind completely. Answer: C) I forgot what I was going to say. Example: “In the middle of my presentation, I got distracted and lost my train of thought.”
9,084	What does the idiom “He’s a goofus” mean? A) He is often serious and thoughtful. B) He is extremely smart and calculated. C) He is hardworking but introverted. D) He is very clumsy or silly. Answer: D) He is very clumsy or silly. Example: “He tripped over his own feet and spilled the coffee—he’s such a goofus.”
9,085	What does the idiom “He’s a wild card” mean? A) He is unpredictable and hard to figure out. B) He is highly dependable in critical situations. C) He is someone who always plays games. D) He is someone who follows strict rules. Answer: A) He is unpredictable and hard to figure out. Example: “We don’t know how he’ll react under pressure—he’s a wild card.”
9,086	What does the idiom “You didn’t let me down. I let myself down.” mean? A) You succeeded, but I failed. B) You encouraged me when I needed it most. C) You are not responsible for my disappointment. D) You tried to help, but I ignored your advice. Answer: C) You are not responsible for my disappointment. Example: “After losing the competition, I told my coach, ‘You didn’t let me down. I let myself down.’”
9,087	What does the idiom “You are such a cliché” mean? A) You are very original and unique. B) You are predictable and overly typical. C) You are inspiring and motivating. D) You are strange and hard to understand. Answer: B) You are predictable and overly typical. Example: “Wearing sunglasses indoors? You are such a cliché.”
9,088	What does the idiom “He has 30 years under his belt” mean? A) He has saved up money for 30 years. B) He is 30 years old. C) He has 30 years of experience. D) He is carrying a heavy load. Answer: C) He has 30 years of experience. Example: “With 30 years under his belt, he’s one of the most experienced engineers in the company.”
9,089	What does the idiom “I found his wish list” mean? A) I uncovered his biggest secrets. B) I found his plans for the future. C) I found his list of things he hopes to achieve or receive. D) I discovered his shopping list. Answer: C) I found his list of things he hopes to achieve or receive. Example: “While cleaning the desk, I found his wish list for the holidays.”
9,090	What does the idiom “Hapless stranger” mean? A) A stranger who is lost. B) A stranger who is unlucky or unfortunate. C) A stranger who is mysterious. D) A stranger who is aggressive. Answer: B) A stranger who is unlucky or unfortunate. Example: “The hapless stranger got caught in the storm with no umbrella or coat.”
9,091	What does the idiom “I hear you loud and clear” mean? A) I need you to repeat yourself. B) I am confused about your message. C) I don’t agree with what you said. D) I completely understand what you’re saying. Answer: D) I completely understand what you’re saying. Example: “After explaining my concerns, he said, ‘I hear you loud and clear.’”
9,092	What does the idiom “I’m feeling a little smug because of it” mean? A) I feel slightly embarrassed about it. B) I feel slightly self-satisfied or proud about it. C) I feel completely indifferent about it. D) I feel guilty about it. Answer: B) I feel slightly self-satisfied or proud about it. Example: “I finished the puzzle faster than anyone else, so I’m feeling a little smug because of it.”
9,093	What does the idiom “Who the Hell are you?” mean? A) A polite way to ask someone’s name. B) A direct and confrontational way to demand someone’s identity. C) A sarcastic way to greet a friend. D) A rhetorical way to avoid answering someone. Answer: B) A direct and confrontational way to demand someone’s identity. Example: “When the stranger walked into the room unannounced, I asked, ‘Who the Hell are you?’”
9,094	What does the idiom “Tomorrow may not come” mean? A) Time always feels like it’s standing still. B) The weather will remain uncertain. C) A deadline might be extended. D) Life is unpredictable, so live in the present. Answer: D) Life is unpredictable, so live in the present. Example: “Don’t waste time putting things off—tomorrow may not come.”
9,095	What does the idiom “Sorry, your train just left (metaphorically)” mean? A) You’ve failed to understand something. B) You’ve missed the actual train. C) You’ve just missed an opportunity. D) You’ve avoided a major problem. Answer: C) You’ve just missed an opportunity. Example: “I asked for the promotion too late, and my boss said, ‘Sorry, your train just left.’”
9,096	What does the idiom “Will not see the light of day” mean? A) Will not be exposed or revealed. B) Will not be completed on time. C) Will not work as intended. D) Will not happen during daylight hours. Answer: A) Will not be exposed or revealed. Example: “The unfinished manuscript will not see the light of day until it’s perfect.”
9,097	What does the idiom "You will never see the light of day" mean? A) You will remain in complete darkness forever. B) You will never be allowed to go outside. C) You will never be released. D) You will be punished severely. Answer: C) You will never be released. Example: “If the government finds out that you are a spy, you’ll never see the light of day.”
9,098	What does the idiom “The dearly departed” mean? A) Someone who has passed away. B) Someone who is deeply loved but far away. C) Someone who is late for an event. D) Someone who has been forgotten. Answer: A) Someone who has passed away. Example: “The family gathered to honor the dearly departed at the memorial service.”
9,099	What does the idiom “Herculean effort” mean? A) An effort that fails to meet expectations. B) An effort that is poorly planned. C) An effort that requires teamwork. D) An effort that is unusually strong or extraordinary. Answer: D) An effort that is unusually strong or extraordinary. Example: “It took a Herculean effort to move the fallen tree off the road.”
9,100	What does the idiom “Monumental task” mean? A) A very easy and straightforward job. B) A task of great importance and difficulty. C) A job that requires minimal effort. D) A task that is impossible to complete. Answer: B) A task of great importance and difficulty. Example: “Building the Great Wall of China was a monumental task that required years of effort.”
9,101	What does the idiom “I’ll trade all the tomorrows for a single yesterday” mean? A) I want to forget the past completely. B) I would give anything to move forward in life. C) I value past memories more than future possibilities. D) I’m focused only on the present. Answer: C) I value past memories more than future possibilities. Example: “Thinking about my late wife, I said, ‘I’ll trade all the tomorrows for a single yesterday with her.’”
9,102	What does the idiom “He let me down” mean? A) He disappointed me. B) He helped me achieve my goals. C) He ignored me completely. D) He encouraged me when I needed support. Answer: A) He disappointed me. Example: “I trusted him to complete the task, but he let me down again.”
9,103	What does the idiom “Soft target” mean? A) A target that has already been missed. B) A target that requires careful handling. C) An unimportant goal. D) A vulnerable or easy target. Answer: D) A vulnerable or easy target. Example: “The small village was seen as a soft target for the invading forces.”
9,104	What does the idiom “The building bears his name” mean? A) He designed or constructed the building. B) He owns the building. C) The building is named after him as an honor. D) He worked in the building for a long time. Answer: C) The building is named after him as an honor. Example: “The library bears his name because he was a generous donor.”
9,105	What does the idiom “He’s really dense” mean? A) He is very muscular. B) He is not very intelligent or quick to understand. C) He is emotionally strong and resilient. D) He is physically unmovable. Answer: B) He is not very intelligent or quick to understand. Example: “I explained it three times, but he’s really dense and still didn’t get it.”
9,106	What does the idiom “Verbal diarrhea” mean? A) Speaking too much or excessively. B) Speaking in an unclear way. C) Being unable to express thoughts. D) Using offensive or inappropriate words. Answer: A) Speaking too much or excessively. Example: “He kept talking for hours without stopping—it was total verbal diarrhea.”
9,107	What does the idiom “I all but stopped trying” mean? A) I completely stopped trying. B) I almost stopped trying but didn’t. C) I tried harder than ever before. D) I gave up temporarily. Answer: B) I almost stopped trying but didn’t. Example: “After so many failures, I all but stopped trying, but something pushed me to keep going.”
9,108	What does the idiom “We’re walking a delicate tightrope” mean? A) We are trying to avoid losing control. B) We are heading toward a major conflict. C) We are balancing between two easy tasks. D) We are making careful decisions on risky issues. Answer: D) We are making careful decisions on risky issues. Example: “During these negotiations, we’re walking a delicate tightrope to keep both sides happy.”
9,109	What does the idiom “You’re an 18-11 (police)” mean? A) You are permanently assigned to desk duty. B) You are a highly respected officer. C) You are new to the police force. D) You are on active patrol duty. Answer: A) You are permanently assigned to desk duty. Example: “After his injury, the sergeant said, ‘You’re an 18-11 now, so no more field work.’”
9,110	What does the idiom “Let me run with this” mean? A) Let me share my thoughts on this matter. B) Let me leave the meeting to handle something else. C) Let me think about it for a while. D) Let me take responsibility for this task or idea. Answer: D) Let me take responsibility for this task or idea. Example: “I have a great approach for this project—let me run with this and see where it goes.”
9,111	What does the idiom “It’s a dogged investigation” mean? A) The investigation is careless and unorganized. B) The investigation is persistent and determined. C) The investigation is unusually slow. D) The investigation lacks focus and direction. Answer: B) The investigation is persistent and determined. Example: “The detective’s dogged investigation eventually uncovered the truth.”
9,112	What does the idiom “He has eyes in the back of his head” mean? A) He often makes wild assumptions. B) He is paranoid and suspicious of others. C) He is very watchful and aware of everything happening around him. D) He has exceptional eyesight. Answer: C) He is very watchful and aware of everything happening around him. Example: “The teacher always caught the students talking; he has eyes in the back of his head.”
9,113	What does the idiom “He caved” mean? A) He fell down physically. B) He gave in or surrendered under pressure. C) He explored a cave. D) He misunderstood the situation. Answer: B) He gave in or surrendered under pressure. Example: “After hours of negotiation, he caved and agreed to their demands.”
9,114	What does the idiom “Keep your mouth shut and your eyes open” mean? A) Stay silent and observe carefully. B) Avoid making eye contact. C) Speak less but act quickly. D) Don’t trust anyone in the room. Answer: A) Stay silent and observe carefully. Example: “In situations like these, it’s best to keep your mouth shut and your eyes open.”
9,115	What does the idiom “What are you getting at?” mean? A) What are you reaching for physically? B) What are you planning to do next? C) What are you trying to find? D) What are you implying or suggesting? Answer: D) What are you implying or suggesting? Example: “I don’t understand your point—what are you getting at?”
9,116	What does the idiom “Do you have anything tangible” mean? A) Do you have anything you can physically hold? B) Do you have concrete evidence or proof? C) Do you have something valuable? D) Do you have any creative ideas? Answer: B) Do you have concrete evidence or proof? Example: “The lawyer asked, ‘Do you have anything tangible that can prove your claim?’”
9,117	What does the idiom “We need to jump start this project” mean? A) We need to restart the project from scratch. B) We need to add energy and momentum to get it moving quickly. C) We need to evaluate the project again. D) We need to finish the project immediately. Answer: B) We need to add energy and momentum to get it moving quickly. Example: “The team is falling behind schedule, so we need to jump start this project with some fresh ideas.”
9,118	What does the idiom “Their project was dropped” mean? A) Their project was successfully completed. B) Their project was delayed for a short time. C) Their project was rejected or canceled. D) Their project received unexpected funding. Answer: C) Their project was rejected or canceled. Example: “Due to budget cuts, their project was dropped without much discussion.”
9,119	What does the idiom “He thinks that he is Elliot Ness” mean? A) He believes he’s untouchable and morally righteous like a famous investigator. B) He acts like a gangster or criminal. C) He thinks he’s extremely wealthy. D) He tries to avoid responsibilities. Answer: A) He believes he’s untouchable and morally righteous like the famous investigator, Elliot Ness. Example: “He keeps talking about cleaning up corruption—he thinks that he’s Elliot Ness.”
9,120	What does the idiom “My butt is on the line” mean? A) I’m sitting in an uncomfortable place. B) I’m in a risky situation where I could face consequences. C) I’m waiting for my turn. D) I’m being watched closely. Answer: B) I’m in a risky situation where I could face consequences. Example: “If this project fails, my butt is on the line because I promised the client we’d deliver.”
9,121	What does the idiom “Life has a way of sneaking up on you” mean? A) Life slows down when you least expect it. B) Life always gives you second chances. C) Life becomes easier with experience. D) Life’s challenges and events can catch you by surprise. Answer: D) Life’s challenges and events can catch you by surprise. Example: “One day you’re a teenager, and the next you’re paying bills—life has a way of sneaking up on you.”
9,122	What does the idiom “He is pregnant with mischief” mean? A) He is full of mischievous ideas and plans. B) He is regretful about his mischievous actions. C) He is trying to hide his playful behavior. D) He is known for avoiding trouble. Answer: A) He is full of mischievous ideas and plans. Example: “Judging by that grin, he is pregnant with mischief and is up to no good.”
9,123	What does the idiom “Apex predator” mean? A) A predator that relies on others to survive. B) A predator that is about to become extinct. C) The strongest predator at the top of the food chain. D) A predator that is new to an ecosystem. Answer: C) The strongest predator at the top of the food chain. Example: “The tiger is an apex predator in its habitat, with no natural enemies.”
9,124	What does the idiom “Hunting prowess” mean? A) Exceptional skill and ability in hunting. B) A casual interest in outdoor activities. C) A fascination with wildlife. D) A talent for spotting hidden things. Answer: A) Exceptional skill and ability in hunting. Example: “The tribe admired his hunting prowess, as he always returned with the best game.”
9,125	What does the idiom “You take the east, you take the west, I’ll float” mean? A) Everyone should divide responsibilities equally. B) I’ll relax while you both work. C) I’ll focus on a different task while you two split this one. D) I’ll follow your lead in handling the task. Answer: C) I’ll focus on a different task while you two split this one. Example: “When planning the search, the team leader said, ‘You take the east, you take the west, and I’ll float.’”
9,126	What does the idiom “You look very smart” mean? A) You look like you’ve been studying a lot. B) You look intelligent and focused. C) You look prepared for a challenge. D) You look well-dressed and stylish. Answer: D) You look well-dressed and stylish. Example: “In that new suit, you look very smart—perfect for your big presentation.”
9,127	What does the idiom “If anyone got in my way, I just ran over them” mean? A) I literally ran past everyone to succeed. B) I accidentally hurt people while working. C) I achieved my goals by disregarding others’ feelings or obstacles. D) I avoided all conflicts to reach my goal. Answer: C) I achieved my goals by disregarding others’ feelings or obstacles. Example: “During the competition, I was so focused that if anyone got in my way, I just ran over them to win.”
9,128	What does the idiom “It wasn’t my proudest moment” mean? A) I did something I regret or am not proud of. B) I experienced an embarrassing failure. C) I achieved something remarkable. D) I faced a situation that was out of my control. Answer: A) I did something I regret or am not proud of. Example: “When I yelled at my coworker, it wasn’t my proudest moment, but I apologized later.”
9,129	What does the idiom “It is noticeably absent” mean? A) Something has been overlooked or ignored. B) Something is there but not being used. C) Something is hiding intentionally. D) Something is missing in a way that is very obvious. Answer: D) Something is missing in a way that is very obvious. Example: “The star player’s presence was noticeably absent during the game, and the team struggled without him.”
9,130	What does the idiom “I hope that we might revisit the topic” mean? A) I hope we can change the subject. B) I want to forget about this conversation. C) I hope we can talk about this again later. D) I want to avoid this discussion entirely. Answer: C) I hope we can talk about this again later. Example: “We didn’t come to a conclusion, but I hope that we might revisit the topic during the next meeting.”
9,131	What does the idiom “Difficult may be an understatement” mean? A) The task is not as hard as it seems. B) The task is extremely challenging and worse than described. C) The task is almost impossible to complete. D) The task requires a great deal of teamwork. Answer: B) The task is extremely challenging and worse than described. Example: “Trying to climb that mountain was tough, but difficult may be an understatement.”
9,132	What does the idiom “There isn’t an eloquent way of telling you about it, so blunt will have to do” mean? A) I need to share something directly without sugar-coating it. B) I will try to explain this in the simplest way possible. C) I don’t want to share the news at all. D) I will share this news only if you are ready. Answer: A) I need to share something directly without sugar-coating it. Example: “There isn’t an eloquent way of telling you about it, so blunt will have to do: you didn’t get the promotion.”
9,133	What does the idiom “Why don’t you do the honors?” mean? A) Why don’t you take responsibility for organizing? B) Why don’t you lead or perform the important task? C) Why don’t you say something polite? D) Why don’t you take credit for the success? Answer: B) Why don’t you lead or perform the important task? Example: “As the guest of honor, why don’t you do the honors and cut the ribbon?”
9,134	What does the idiom “Time got away from me” mean? A) I felt like time was moving too slowly. B) I wasted time intentionally. C) I managed my time poorly. D) I lost track of time or spent it without realizing it. Answer: D) I lost track of time or spent it without realizing it. Example: “I was so focused on the project that time got away from me, and I missed the meeting.”
9,135	What does the idiom “Thanks for dumping this in my lap” mean? A) Thank you for giving me a valuable opportunity. B) Thank you for forcing unexpected responsibility on me. C) Thank you for sharing something important with me. D) Thank you for creating a mess I have to fix. Answer: B) Thank you for forcing unexpected responsibility on me. Example: “The team leader said sarcastically, ‘Thanks for dumping this in my lap without warning.’”
9,136	What does the idiom “She made her presence known” mean? A) She introduced herself to everyone formally. B) She acted in a way that grabbed everyone’s attention. C) She quietly observed the situation. D) She created confusion among the crowd. Answer: B) She acted in a way that grabbed everyone’s attention. Example: “When she walked into the room and began speaking confidently, she made her presence known.”
9,137	What does the idiom “Shady friends” mean? A) Friends who are mysterious and hard to understand. B) Friends who provide shelter or protection. C) Friends who are dishonest or have questionable behavior. D) Friends who are quiet and reserved. Answer: C) Friends who are dishonest or have questionable behavior. Example: “He started hanging out with some shady friends, and his grades began to drop.”
9,138	What does the idiom “Give me a spot (gym)” mean? A) Share your fitness plan with me. B) Show me a good place to exercise. C) Allow me to take your turn at the gym. D) Help me lift weights by assisting if needed. Answer: D) Help me lift weights by assisting if needed. Example: “I’m trying to bench a heavier weight—can you give me a spot?”
9,139	What does the idiom “My mind is a steel trap” mean? A) I am slow to understand complex ideas. B) I easily forget details. C) I have a sharp memory and retain information well. D) I think logically but struggle to be creative. Answer: C) I have a sharp memory and retain information well. Example: “She remembered every detail from the meeting because her mind is a steel trap.”
9,140	What does the idiom “Cutthroat” mean? A) Extremely competitive or ruthless behavior. B) Quick and effective decision-making. C) A dangerous situation involving physical harm. D) A sharp and direct conversation. Answer: A) Extremely competitive or ruthless behavior. Example: “The business world can be cutthroat, so you need to be prepared to fight for your place.”
9,141	What does the idiom “That’s a joke that I don’t allow people to make twice” mean? A) I make sure to explain jokes for clarity. B) I always laugh at the same jokes repeatedly. D) I prefer hearing new jokes every time. A) I won’t tolerate the same inappropriate or offensive joke again. Answer: D) I won’t tolerate the same inappropriate or offensive joke again. Example: “When he made a rude comment, she replied, ‘That’s a joke that I don’t allow people to make twice.’”
9,142	What does the idiom “Very well parried” mean? A) A clever or skillful response. B) A delayed or hesitant reply. C) An answer that avoided the main question. D) A poorly thought-out statement. Answer: A) A clever or skillful response. Example: “When he joked about her mistake, she replied with a witty comeback; ’Very well parried,’ he said.”
9,143	What does the idiom “You will extricate yourself from my life” mean? A) You will take more responsibility in our interactions. B) You will try to rebuild our relationship. C) You will remove yourself from my life completely. D) You will find a way to fix things. Answer: C) You will remove yourself from my life completely. Example: “After years of drama, she told him, ‘You will extricate yourself from my life immediately.’”
9,144	What does the idiom “A distinction without a distinction” mean? A) A unique and impressive characteristic. B) An easily noticeable difference. C) A difference that creates confusion. D) A minor or meaningless difference. Answer: D) A minor or meaningless difference. Example: “Arguing over the color shades is a distinction without a distinction; it doesn’t change the outcome.”
9,145	What does the idiom “This don’t blow it” mean? A) Don’t ruin this opportunity. B) Don’t make the situation worse. C) Don’t speak too loudly. D) Don’t misunderstand this. Answer: A) Don’t ruin this opportunity. Example: “You’ve been given a second chance, so don’t blow it this time.”
9,146	What does the idiom “A dead hand device” mean? A) A device that requires no maintenance. B) A tool that is completely useless. C) A mechanism that activates automatically when its operator is incapacitated. D) A tool used only in emergencies. Answer: C) A mechanism that activates automatically when its operator is incapacitated. Example: “The missile system uses a dead hand device to launch in case the operators are unable to respond.”
9,147	What does the idiom “He’s into parkour” mean? A) He enjoys jumping, running, and navigating obstacles creatively. B) He is obsessed with physical fitness. C) He practices traditional sports exclusively. D) He prefers calm and stationary activities. Answer: A) He enjoys jumping, running, and navigating obstacles creatively. Example: “You’ll often see him climbing walls and leaping over railings; he’s into parkour.”
9,148	What does the idiom “Color me shocked” mean? A) I am confused about what happened. B) I am indifferent to the news. C) I already knew this information. D) I am very surprised. Answer: D) I am very surprised. Example: “When she announced her sudden engagement, I said, ‘Color me shocked; I had no idea!’”
9,149	What does the idiom “We had a few run ins over the years” mean? A) We collaborated on projects together. B) We bumped into each other often. C) We had several arguments or conflicts. D) We worked on improving our relationship. Answer: C) We had several arguments or conflicts. Example: “My neighbor and I had a few run ins over the years about our property lines.”
9,150	What does the idiom “The kid came through the system” mean? A) The child escaped from an organized program. B) The child graduated from a school system. C) The child was processed or handled by a formal system, like foster care or justice. D) The child succeeded without outside help. Answer: C) The child was processed or handled by a formal system, like foster care or justice. Example: “The kid came through the system and struggled to find stability after years in foster care.”
9,151	What does the phrase “I want a hamburger with the works” mean? A) I want the simplest version of something. B) I want all the toppings that are normally put on the hamburger. C) I prefer something different from the usual. D) I want it cooked perfectly. Answer: B) I want all the toppings that are normally put on the hamburger. Example: “When he ordered his meal, he said, ‘I want a hamburger with the works; don’t leave anything out.’”
9,152	What does the phrase “2 hotdogs and hold the buns” mean? A) A specific request for simplicity. B) A way to indicate you’re in a hurry. C) A humorous way of saying you want less. A) A literal order of food without bread. Answer: D) A literal order of food without bread. Example: “When I’m on a low-carb diet, I ask for 2 hotdogs and hold the buns.”
9,153	What does the idiom “You got one play here” mean? A) You can only participate in one activity. B) You need to be creative with your actions. C) You have one chance to succeed. D) You should focus on multiple options. Answer: C) You have one chance to succeed. Example: “If you want to win this case, you got one play here: convince the jury quickly.”
9,154	What does the idiom “He’s crooked” mean? A) He is physically bent or hunched over. B) He is dishonest or corrupt. C) He is confused and uncertain. D) He is clever and resourceful. Answer: B) He is dishonest or corrupt. Example: “The detective suspected the politician was crooked because of his shady dealings.”
9,155	What does the idiom “Clearly, we know that’s not true” mean? A) The truth will soon be revealed. B) Something is confusing and unclear. C) We have proof that something is correct. D) It’s obvious that something is false. Answer: D) It’s obvious that something is false. Example: “When he claimed he invented the Internet, I said, ‘Clearly, we know that’s not true.’”
9,156	What does the idiom “He threw a curveball during the meeting” mean? A) He acted aggressively toward others. B) He introduced a new challenge. C) He confused everyone with complicated data. D) He made an unexpected statement or change. Answer: D) He made an unexpected statement or change. Example: “He threw a curveball during the meeting by suggesting a completely different approach to the project.”
9,157	What does the idiom “Keep your eye on the ball” mean? A) Stay focused on your goals or tasks. B) Watch out for potential dangers. C) Avoid distractions during play. D) React quickly to changes. Answer: A) Stay focused on your goals or tasks. Example: “If you want to win this game, you need to keep your eye on the ball and not get distracted.”
9,158	What does the idiom “Hit the ground running” mean? A) To approach a situation cautiously. B) To fall down during an activity. C) To start something with full energy and enthusiasm. D) To complete a task without preparation. Answer: C) To start something with full energy and enthusiasm. Example: “The new manager hit the ground running by implementing changes on her first day.”
9,159	What does the idiom “To gild the lily” mean? A) To express gratitude excessively. B) To repair something that is broken. C) To enhance the value of something. D) To add unnecessary decoration to something already beautiful. Answer: D) To add unnecessary decoration to something already beautiful. Example: “Adding diamond embellishments to that already elegant dress is like gilding the lily.”
9,160	What does the idiom “That really burns me” mean? A) That excites me. B) That makes me very angry or upset. C) That confuses me. D) That motivates me to act. Answer: B) That makes me very angry or upset. Example: “It really burns me when people cut in line and act like it’s no big deal.”
9,161	What does the idiom “A problem in one area often leads to a solution to a problem in a different area” mean? A) Problems are connected and often impact each other. B) Solving one problem creates more problems. C) Problems cannot be solved independently. D) Problems in one area are unrelated to others. Answer: A) Problems are connected and often impact each other. Example: “When the factory broke down, we discovered a more efficient process; proving that a problem in one area often leads to a solution to a problem in a different area.”
9,162	What does the idiom “It started out innocent enough” mean? A) It started with a mischievous intention. B) It started with confusion or hesitation. C) It began with clear goals and plans. D) It began without any harmful intent. Answer: D) It began without any harmful intent. Example: “Their argument started out innocent enough but quickly escalated into a heated debate.”
9,163	What does the idiom “Free range chicken” mean? A) A chicken raised without confinement. B) A wild and untamed animal. C) A person who refuses to settle down. D) A meal that is easy to prepare. Answer: A) A chicken raised without confinement. Example: “The restaurant prides itself on using free range chicken in all its dishes.”
9,164	What does the idiom “I have a sneaking suspicion” mean? A) I am hesitant to share my thoughts. B) I am completely certain about something. C) I have a slight but growing feeling about something. D) I have no idea what is happening. Answer: C) I have a slight but growing feeling about something. Example: “I have a sneaking suspicion that he already knows about the surprise party.”
9,165	What does the idiom “French door” mean? A) A type of door with glass panes extending most of its length. B) A door that opens to a secret area. C) A door that requires special maintenance. D) A door used only in European-style homes. Answer: A) A type of door with glass panes extending most of its length. Example: “We installed a French door in the dining room to let in more natural light.”
9,166	What does the idiom “Castle in the sky” mean? A) A temporary plan for the future. B) A luxurious home in the mountains. C) A place of safety and security. D) An unrealistic or impossible dream. Answer: D) An unrealistic or impossible dream. Example: “Her idea of becoming a millionaire overnight is just a castle in the sky.”
9,167	What does the idiom “Sail close to the wind” mean? A) To do something that is dangerous or that may be illegal or dishonest. B) To act cautiously and avoid mistakes. C) To plan for unexpected situations. D) To follow rules strictly. Answer: A) To do something that is dangerous or that may be illegal or dishonest. Example: “He’s sailing close to the wind by submitting the project just minutes before the deadline.”
9,168	What does the idiom “Don’t make waves” mean? A) Don’t create opportunities for change. B) Don’t try to swim in deep water. C) Don’t cause trouble or disrupt the situation. D) Don’t act too confidently. Answer: C) Don’t cause trouble or disrupt the situation. Example: “During the meeting, the manager warned everyone, ‘Don’t make waves; let’s keep things smooth.’”
9,169	What does the idiom “A rising tide lifts all boats” mean? A) Success for one benefits everyone. B) Everyone should stay in their own space. C) Difficult situations affect everyone equally. D) Individual efforts are more important than teamwork. Answer: A) Success for one benefits everyone. Example: “Improving the economy helps everyone, just like a rising tide lifts all boats.”
9,170	What does the idiom “He’s full of beans” mean? A) He is physically full after eating. B) He is dishonest or untrustworthy. C) He is confused and unsure. D) He is energetic and lively. Answer: D) He is energetic and lively. Example: “The kids were full of beans after eating all that candy at the party.”
9,171	What does the idiom “Packed like sardines” mean? A) Organized neatly and carefully. B) Crowded into a small space with no room. C) Stored in an airtight container. D) Arranged in a chaotic manner. Answer: B) Crowded into a small space with no room. Example: “The subway was so full during rush hour that we were packed like sardines.”
9,172	What does the idiom “Keep your chin up” mean? A) Stay strong and positive despite difficulties. B) Avoid speaking too much. C) Pay close attention to details. D) Be confident in your skills. Answer: A) Stay strong and positive despite difficulties. Example: “Even after failing the test, she told me to keep my chin up and try again.”
9,173	What does the idiom “He has his head in the cloud” mean? A) He is avoiding responsibility. B) He is working hard and focused. C) He is lost in unrealistic or impractical thoughts. D) He is upset or frustrated. Answer: C) He is lost in unrealistic or impractical thoughts. Example: “During the meeting, it was clear he had his head in the cloud and wasn’t paying attention.”
9,174	What does the idiom “He is as genuine as a three-dollar bill” mean? A) He is hard to understand. B) He is very reliable. C) He is extremely generous. D) He is not genuine or trustworthy. Answer: D) He is not genuine or trustworthy. Example: “Don’t trust what he says, he’s as genuine as a three-dollar bill.”
9,175	What does the idiom “Grisly business” mean? A) A disturbing or unpleasant situation. B) A confusing and complex issue. C) A highly profitable venture. D) A well-organized task. Answer: A) A disturbing or unpleasant situation. Example: “The crime scene was a grisly business that left everyone shaken.”
9,176	What does the idiom “I’m quite pregnant with it now” mean? A) I’m unwilling to discuss it further. B) I’m close to finishing it. C) I’m full of ideas or emotions related to it. D) I’m confused by it. Answer: C) I’m full of ideas or emotions related to it. Example: “After months of planning, I’m quite pregnant with it now and ready to launch the project.”
9,177	What does the idiom “No one noticed, save me” mean? A) Everyone noticed the same thing. B) Everyone but me was ignored. C) No one noticed until later. D) No one except me noticed. Answer: D) No one except me noticed. Example: “The room was chaotic, but no one noticed, save me, that the document was missing.”
9,178	What does the idiom “We entered the world of spydom” mean? A) We began dealing with espionage or secretive activities. B) We started understanding complex stories. C) We became experts in technology. D) We solved mysterious cases. Answer: A) We began dealing with espionage or secretive activities. Example: “After receiving the encrypted messages, we entered the world of spydom.”
9,179	What does the idiom “If that happens, then lovely” mean? A) If that happens, it would be unfortunate. B) If that happens, it would be wonderful. C) If that happens, it will be confusing. D) If that happens, it will require more effort. Answer: B) If that happens, it would be wonderful. Example: “If the deal goes through, then lovely; it’ll solve all our problems.”
9,180	What does the idiom “That event raised many flags” mean? A) The event was well-organized. B) The event involved multiple countries. C) The event caused concerns or suspicions. D) The event was highly celebrated. Answer: C) The event caused concerns or suspicions. Example: “The sudden change in leadership raised many flags among the employees.”
9,181	What does the idiom “Robbery gone wrong” mean? A) A robbery that was poorly planned but successful. B) A robbery that failed or led to unintended consequences. C) A robbery that was misunderstood. D) A robbery that didn’t involve theft. Answer: B) A robbery that failed or led to unintended consequences. Example: “The police arrived quickly, and the robbery gone wrong ended in an arrest.”
9,182	What does the idiom “I’ll let that slide” mean? A) I’ll address the situation immediately. B) I’ll respond to the issue later. C) I’ll help you avoid trouble. D) I’ll forgive or ignore a mistake. Answer: D) I’ll forgive or ignore a mistake. Example: “You’re late again, but I’ll let that slide this time because I know you were stuck in traffic.”
9,183	What does the idiom “You’re only scratching the surface” mean? A) You’re addressing only a small part of the issue. B) You’re damaging the surface of something. C) You’re uncovering deep problems. D) You’re solving the problem entirely. Answer: A) You’re addressing only a small part of the issue. Example: “If you think that’s the full extent of the problem, you’re only scratching the surface.”
9,184	What does the idiom “He’s driving a wedge between you and me” mean? A) He is trying to mediate our disagreements. B) He is helping us grow closer. C) He is creating conflict or division between us. D) He is avoiding the situation entirely. Answer: C) He is creating conflict or division between us. Example: “His constant interference is driving a wedge between you and me.”
9,185	What does the idiom “If you want to point fingers, save one for yourself” mean? A) Don’t ignore your own responsibility when blaming others. B) Don’t criticize others without reason. C) Blame someone else instead of yourself. D) Be prepared to defend yourself. Answer: A) Don’t ignore your own responsibility when blaming others. Example: “The manager said, ‘If you want to point fingers, save one for yourself because everyone contributed to this mistake.’”
9,186	What does the idiom “I know you won’t take me seriously” mean? A) I know you’ll follow my advice. B) I know you’ll trust my opinion. C) I know you’ll listen carefully. D) I know you think I’m joking or unimportant. Answer: D) I know you think I’m joking or unimportant. Example: “When I suggested a bold idea, I said, ‘I know you won’t take me seriously, but hear me out.’”
9,187	What does the idiom “After the accident, everyone was pointing fingers at everyone else” mean? A) People were blaming each other. B) People were helping each other. C) People were sharing their experiences. D) People were ignoring the situation. Answer: A) People were blaming each other. Example: “The team failed the project and everyone was pointing fingers at everyone else.”
9,188	What does the idiom “My car crapped out” mean? A) My car got a flat tire. B) My car was stolen. C) My car stopped working suddenly. D) My car ran out of gas. Answer: C) My car stopped working suddenly. Example: “On my way to work, my car crapped out, and I had to call a tow truck.”
9,189	What does the idiom “He is an operative” mean? A) He works in a technical field. B) He is a skilled negotiator. C) He is an active and energetic person. D) He is a secret agent or someone involved in covert operations. Answer: D) He is a secret agent or someone involved in covert operations. Example: “He never talks about his job, but I suspect he is an operative working for the government.”
9,190	What does the idiom “For Queen and country” mean? A) For a personal reason. B) For the benefit of one’s nation or loyalty to its leader. C) For a small group of people. D) For financial gain. Answer: B) For the benefit of one’s nation or loyalty to its leader. Example: “The soldier said he would fight bravely for Queen and country.”
9,191	What does the idiom “I’m going to give him a thrashing” mean? A) I’m going to scold or defeat him harshly. B) I’m going to forgive him. C) I’m going to help him. D) I’m going to ignore him. Answer: A) I’m going to scold or defeat him harshly. Example: “After breaking my window, I told him, ‘I’m going to give him a thrashing for this!’”
9,192	What does the idiom “Winner takes all” mean? A) The competition has no clear rules. B) The winner must share their reward. C) The winner receives minimal recognition. D) The winner gets everything, and the loser gets nothing. Answer: D) The winner gets everything, and the loser gets nothing. Example: “In this game, it’s winner takes all; there’s no second-place prize.”
9,193	What does the idiom “I understand the optics” mean? A) I understand how to fix the issue. B) I understand the technical aspects of a problem. C) I understand how things look or are perceived. D) I understand how to improve relationships. Answer: C) I understand how things look or are perceived. Example: “When deciding on the press release, he said, ‘I understand the optics of this situation.’”
9,194	What does the idiom “That was not a lateral move” in employment mean? A) His new job was a demotion. B) The move was to an equal position. C) The move was temporary. D) The move was accidental. Answer: A) His new job was a demotion. Example: “Taking on that factory job was not a lateral move; he’s not nearly as important.”
9,195	What does the idiom “Don’t see eye to eye” mean? A) Don’t rely on each other. B) Don’t make direct eye contact. C) Don’t understand each other. D) Don’t agree or share the same opinion. Answer: D) Don’t agree or share the same opinion. Example: “The two coworkers don’t see eye to eye on how to handle the project.”
9,196	What does the idiom “Cut the heat” mean? A) Lower the intensity of a situation. B) Increase the temperature in a room. C) Avoid getting into trouble. D) Focus on the task at hand. Answer: A) Lower the intensity of a situation. Example: “The argument was getting out of hand, so I stepped in and said, ‘Cut the heat, everyone!’”
9,197	What does the idiom “Safety does not take a day off” mean? A) Safety rules can be relaxed occasionally. B) Safety is only necessary during work hours. C) Safety should always be a top priority. D) Safety is someone else’s responsibility. Answer: C) Safety should always be a top priority. Example: “At our construction site, the manager reminds everyone that safety does not take a day off.”
9,198	What does the idiom “He is an agent of change” mean? A) He struggles with changes. B) He prevents change from occurring. C) He adapts to change quickly. D) He actively brings about significant change. Answer: D) He actively brings about significant change. Example: “As a leader, he is an agent of change, always pushing for innovation and progress.”
9,199	What does the idiom “He’s on the crapper” mean? A) He’s in trouble. B) He’s using the bathroom. C) He’s stuck in a bad situation. D) He’s procrastinating. Answer: B) He’s using the bathroom. Example: “I tried calling him, but his roommate said, ‘He’s on the crapper; he’ll call you back later.’”
9,200	What does the idiom “Tight as a boiled owl” mean? A) Extremely drunk. B) Very confused. C) Extremely disciplined. D) Very strong and determined. Answer: A) Extremely drunk. Example: “By the end of the night, he was tight as a boiled owl after all the drinks he had.”
9,201	What does the idiom “Save your breath to cool your porridge” mean? A) Relax and avoid rushing things. B) Speak quickly to make your point. C) Don’t waste time arguing. D) Focus on what’s most important. Answer: C) Don’t waste time arguing. Example: “When they tried to debate him, he said, ‘Save your breath to cool your porridge; I’m not changing my mind.’”
9,202	What does the idiom “The playboy has a secret black book” mean? A) He keeps a list of romantic contacts. B) He keeps a record of debts owed to him. C) He hides important business contacts. D) He maintains a diary of his achievements. Answer: A) He keeps a list of romantic contacts. Example: “Rumor has it that the playboy has a secret black book filled with names and numbers.”
9,203	What does the idiom “Off the chain” mean? A) Relaxed and calm. B) Completely broken or ruined. C) Detached from a routine. D) Uncontrolled or extremely exciting. Answer: D) Uncontrolled or extremely exciting. Example: “The party last night was off the chain; everyone had so much fun!”
9,204	What does the idiom “Got him on a tight chain” mean? A) He is being rewarded for loyalty. B) He is being trained to be responsible. C) He is being closely monitored or controlled. D) He is being kept out of trouble. Answer: C) He is being closely monitored or controlled. Example: “Ever since the incident, his boss has got him on a tight chain to avoid mistakes.”
9,205	What does the idiom “Check your coat” mean? A) Leave your coat in the designated area. B) Be careful and stay alert. C) Make sure your coat is warm enough. D) Prepare to leave immediately. Answer: A) Leave your coat in the designated area. Example: “When we arrived at the restaurant, the hostess said, ‘Please check your coat at the counter.’”
9,206	What does the idiom “We had a rare old time” mean? A) We had an argument. B) We had a boring experience. C) We had a difficult time. D) We had a unique and memorable experience. Answer: D) We had a unique and memorable experience. Example: “At the carnival last weekend, we had a rare old time with all the games and rides.”
9,207	What does the idiom “I got put in his black book” mean? A) I was added to his list of contacts. B) I was added to his list of people he dislikes or avoids. C) I was given a position of trust. D) I was added to his favorite people list. Answer: B) I was added to his list of people he dislikes or avoids. Example: “After the argument, I got put in his black book, and he hasn’t spoken to me since.”
9,208	What does the idiom “Cold turkey” mean? A) Stopping a habit suddenly and completely. B) Preparing something quickly. C) Ignoring someone intentionally. D) Eating leftovers. Answer: A) Stopping a habit suddenly and completely. Example: “He quit smoking cold turkey and hasn’t had a cigarette since.”
9,209	What does the idiom “He’s bleeding me dry” mean? A) He is borrowing money temporarily. B) He is helping me save money. C) He is taking all my resources or money. D) He is helping me achieve my goals. Answer: C) He is taking all my resources or money. Example: “Between his constant borrowing and high demands, he’s bleeding me dry.”
9,210	What does the idiom “As blind as a bat” mean? A) Unable to focus on one thing. B) Unable to make decisions quickly. C) Unable to understand instructions. D) The person is unable to see clearly, or he is oblivious to what is happening around him. Answer: D) The person is unable to see clearly, or he is oblivious to what is happening around him. Example: “Without my glasses, I’m as blind as a bat.”
9,211	What does the idiom “Sunspots” mean? A) Temporary flaws or interruptions. B) Permanent problems. C) Bright moments of happiness. D) Hidden opportunities. Answer: A) Temporary flaws or interruptions. Example: “The internet outage was just a sunspot, and it’s working fine now.”
9,212	What does the idiom “Check your attitudes at the door” mean? A) Bring confidence into the room. B) Share your feelings openly. C) Leave negativity or arrogance behind before entering. D) Prepare for criticism. Answer: C) Leave negativity or arrogance behind before entering. Example: “During the team meeting, the manager said, ‘Check your attitudes at the door and focus on solutions.’”
9,213	What does the idiom “On bended knee” mean? A) Sincerely or humbly asking for something. B) Preparing to run or compete. C) Expressing exhaustion or defeat. D) Celebrating a major accomplishment. Answer: A) Sincerely or humbly asking for something. Example: “He proposed to her on bended knee with a diamond ring.”
9,214	What does the idiom “Unique as a blue diamond” mean? A) Very fake or artificial. B) Very fragile and delicate. C) Very beautiful but common. D) Very rare and special. Answer: D) Very rare and special. Example: “Her talent for painting is unique as a blue diamond; it’s truly one of a kind.”
9,215	What does the idiom “The bee’s knees” mean? A) Something trendy but temporary. B) Something small and insignificant. C) The absolute best or very impressive. D) An outdated or forgotten trend. Answer: C) The absolute best or very impressive. Example: “That new restaurant is the bee’s knees; everyone loves it!”
9,216	What does the idiom “Pie in the sky” mean? A) A realistic goal. B) A common misconception. C) A delicious reward. D) An unrealistic or unlikely dream. Answer: D) An unrealistic or unlikely dream. Example: “His plan to buy a private jet is just pie in the sky without a proper business strategy.”
9,217	What does the idiom “All mouth and no trousers” mean? A) Someone who speaks confidently but doesn’t follow through. B) Someone who is very talkative and well-dressed. C) Someone who gives excellent advice. D) Someone who avoids conversations entirely. Answer: A) Someone who speaks confidently but doesn’t follow through. Example: “He talks big about his skills, but he’s all mouth and no trousers when it’s time to act.”
9,218	What does the idiom “Electoral College” refer to? A) A literal school for electors. B) The process by which electors vote for a U.S. president. C) A group of political advisors. D) A debate platform for candidates. Answer: B) The process by which electors vote for a U.S. president. Example: “The president was officially chosen after the votes from the Electoral College were tallied.”
9,219	What does the idiom “He’s as restless as a Mexican jumping bean” mean? A) He is calm and relaxed. B) He is strong and determined. C) He is unpredictable and indecisive. D) He is extremely active and unable to stay still. Answer: D) He is extremely active and unable to stay still. Example: “Before his big performance, he was as restless as a Mexican jumping bean.”
9,220	What does the idiom “It took him down a bad road” mean? A) It led him to a great opportunity. B) It took him on an exciting journey. C) It led him to make poor decisions. D) It helped him discover a new path. Answer: C) It led him to make poor decisions. Example: “Falling into bad company took him down a bad road he regretted later.”
9,221	What does the idiom “Paltry attempt” mean? A) A weak or insignificant effort. B) An overconfident effort. C) A highly successful effort. D) A well-planned attempt. Answer: A) A weak or insignificant effort. Example: “His excuse for being late was a paltry attempt to avoid responsibility.”
9,222	What does the idiom “Faithless elector” mean? A) Someone who switches loyalty unexpectedly. B) Someone who abstains from voting. C) An elector who does not vote as pledged. D) An elector who always supports the winning candidate. Answer: C) An elector who does not vote as pledged. Example: “The faithless elector shocked everyone by voting against their party’s candidate.”
9,223	What does the idiom “Shell out money” mean? A) Lend money to someone. B) Save money. C) Find hidden money. D) Spend money usually when it was unexpected. Answer: D) Spend money usually when it was unexpected. Example: “I had to shell out a lot of money to fix my car after the accident.”
9,224	What does the idiom “He looks like a million bucks” mean? A) He appears very wealthy. B) He looks exhausted and unwell. C) He looks extremely attractive or well-dressed. D) He looks like he just won the lottery. Answer: C) He looks extremely attractive or well-dressed. Example: “In that tailored suit, he looks like a million bucks!”
9,225	What does the idiom “It was out of pocket” mean? A) It was inexpensive or affordable. B) It was inappropriate or unexpected. C) It was paid for using personal funds. D) It was lost or misplaced. Answer: C) It was paid for using personal funds. Example: “His behavior at the meeting was completely out of pocket; nobody expected that kind of outburst.”
9,226	What does the idiom “Leave your egos at the door” mean? A) Bring confidence and energy into the room. B) Forget your personal issues when entering. C) Take off your shoes when entering a place. D) Avoid letting pride or arrogance affect teamwork. Answer: D) Avoid letting pride or arrogance affect teamwork. Example: “During the brainstorming session, the manager said, ‘Leave your egos at the door and focus on collaboration.’”
9,227	What does the idiom “He is always pinching pennies” mean? A) He is extremely wealthy. B) He is very frugal and careful with money. C) He is generous and charitable. D) He often loses money. Answer: B) He is very frugal and careful with money. Example: “He’s always pinching pennies, so he didn’t want to spend much on the trip.”
9,228	What does the idiom “Keep your eyes peeled” mean? A) Protect your eyes from the sun. B) Avoid looking at something unpleasant. C) Stay alert and watch closely. D) Focus on long-term goals. Answer: C) Stay alert and watch closely. Example: “While hiking in the forest, keep your eyes peeled for rare birds.”
9,229	What does the idiom “You need to pitch in” mean? A) You need to contribute or help with the effort. B) You need to start a new project. C) You need to improve your performance. D) You need to focus on the details. Answer: A) You need to contribute or help with the effort. Example: “If we want to finish this work on time, everyone needs to pitch in and do their part.”
9,230	What does the idiom “Dumpster diver” mean? A) Someone who recycles frequently. B) Someone who frequently gets into messy situations. C) Someone who is careless about cleanliness. D) Someone who collects usable items from trash. Answer: D) Someone who collects usable items from trash. Example: “She found a perfectly good chair while dumpster diving near the furniture store.”
9,231	What does the idiom “This is not just a job for her” mean? A) She is passionate and personally invested in her work. B) She finds her job boring and uninspiring. C) She does not take her job seriously. D) She wants to change her career. Answer: A) She is passionate and personally invested in her work. Example: “Teaching is not just a job for her; it’s her calling and greatest passion.”
9,232	What does the idiom “Building on the ashes of” mean? A) Starting something new after destruction or failure. B) Avoiding past mistakes entirely. C) Preserving what was lost. D) Ignoring the past completely. Answer: A) Starting something new after destruction or failure. Example: “The new company was built on the ashes of a failed startup.”
9,233	What does the idiom “Hands-down, the best I’ve ever seen” mean? A) It was slightly above average. B) It was surprisingly good. C) It was undeniably the best. D) It was unimpressive. Answer: C) It was undeniably the best. Example: “Her performance was hands-down, the best I’ve ever seen.”
9,234	What does the idiom “9 you are fine, 10 you’re mine” mean? A) The speed doesn’t matter; tickets are random. B) Any speeding results in a ticket. C) Only speeds above 20 mph over the limit result in a ticket. D) Speeding under 9 mph over the limit is ignored; 10 mph gets you a ticket. Answer: D) Speeding under 9 mph over the limit is ignored; 10 mph gets you a ticket. Example: “Most officers follow the ‘9 you are fine, 10 you’re mine’ rule when it comes to speeding tickets.”
9,235	What does the idiom “Boomerang kids” mean? A) Children who are very active. B) Children who frequently change schools. C) Adult children who return to live with their parents after leaving home. D) Children who refuse to grow up. Answer: C) Adult children who return to live with their parents after leaving home. Example: “After losing his job, he joined the ranks of boomerang kids and moved back in with his parents.”
9,236	What does the idiom “He’s a fearmonger” mean? A) He spreads fear to manipulate or control others. B) He is brave and fearless. C) He avoids confrontations. D) He takes risks without hesitation. Answer: A) He spreads fear to manipulate or control others. Example: “The politician was accused of being a fearmonger during his campaign speeches.”
9,237	What does the idiom “She’s shutting down” mean? A) She’s becoming extremely talkative. B) She’s becoming unresponsive emotionally or mentally. C) She’s taking control of the situation. D) She’s walking away from responsibility. Answer: B) She’s becoming unresponsive emotionally or mentally. Example: “After the argument, she stopped talking; she’s shutting down.”
9,238	What does the idiom “You just got the case of stupid” mean? A) You are confused but trying. B) You are highly intelligent. C) You are overthinking things. D) You are acting unintentionally foolish. Answer: D) You are acting unintentionally foolish. Example: “Leaving your keys in the fridge? You’ve got a case of stupid today!”
9,239	What does the idiom “Self-effacing” mean? A) Arrogant and self-centered. B) Modest and not drawing attention to oneself. C) Loud and confident. D) Highly competitive. Answer: B) Modest and not drawing attention to oneself. Example: “Despite her achievements, she remained self-effacing and rarely took credit.”
9,240	What does the idiom “You are underselling yourself” mean? A) You are not giving yourself enough credit. B) You are overestimating your abilities. C) You are pricing your products too high. D) You are ignoring your responsibilities. Answer: A) You are not giving yourself enough credit. Example: “You’re far more talented than you realize; stop underselling yourself in interviews.”
9,241	What does the idiom “She has a ‘I pay your taxes’ attitude” mean? A) She avoids paying taxes. B) She is generous with her money. C) She feels entitled and superior because she contributes financially. D) She is confused about her responsibilities. Answer: C) She feels entitled and superior because she contributes financially. Example: “Her ‘I pay your taxes’ attitude annoyed the staff at the coffee shop.”
9,242	What does the idiom “He’s a freelancer” mean? A) He avoids working altogether. B) He works for one company exclusively. C) He volunteers without pay. D) He works independently and takes on short-term projects. Answer: D) He works independently and takes on short-term projects. Example: “As a freelancer, he chooses which projects to work on and sets his own schedule.”
9,243	What does the idiom “They continue to roll out one innovation after another” mean? A) They keep failing in their attempts to improve. B) They consistently introduce new and creative ideas. C) They are slow to make improvements. D) They are struggling to keep up with competition. Answer: B) They consistently introduce new and creative ideas. Example: “This tech company continues to roll out one innovation after another, staying ahead of competitors.”
9,244	What does the idiom “The money keeps rolling in” mean? A) Money is being saved carefully. B) Money is disappearing quickly. C) Money is arriving steadily and in large amounts. D) Money is being wasted on unnecessary things. Answer: C) Money is arriving steadily and in large amounts. Example: “Since launching their online store, the money keeps rolling in.”
9,245	What does the idiom “Wasted away to nothing” mean? A) Gave away all possessions. B) Lost everything in a short time. C) Stopped caring about responsibilities. D) Became extremely thin or weak. Answer: D) Became extremely thin or weak. Example: “After months of illness, he looked like he had wasted away to nothing.”
9,246	What does the idiom “My dad is on the warpath” mean? A) My dad is planning a surprise. B) My dad is feeling adventurous. C) My dad is very angry or upset. D) My dad is extremely focused. Answer: C) My dad is very angry or upset. Example: “When he found out I scratched his car, my dad was on the warpath.”
9,247	What does the idiom “It all snowballed” mean? A) It gradually improved over time. B) It became frozen or unresponsive. C) It slowed down and stopped progressing. D) It became uncontrollable and escalated quickly. Answer: D) It became uncontrollable and escalated quickly. Example: “What started as a small disagreement snowballed into a full-blown argument.”
9,248	What does the idiom “His explanation is canard” mean? A) His explanation is detailed and accurate. B) His explanation is vague but believable. C) His explanation is false or misleading. D) His explanation is overly complicated. Answer: C) His explanation is false or misleading. Example: “The politician’s reasoning for the delay was a complete canard to distract from the real issue.”
9,249	What does the idiom “Diligence is the mother of luck” mean? A) Luck always comes first. B) Luck is random. C) Hard work is unnecessary. D) Luck comes from hard work. Answer: D) Luck comes from hard work. Example: “He prepared for months, proving that diligence is the mother of luck.”
9,250	What does the idiom “It was a sticky situation” mean? A) It was an easy situation. B) It was a funny situation. C) It was a difficult or awkward situation. D) It was a forgettable situation. Answer: C) It was a difficult or awkward situation. Example: “Negotiating the contract turned into a sticky situation.”
9,251	What does the idiom “Zero-dollar purchase” mean? A) Something that is very cheap. B) Stealing something from a store. C) Something that costs a significant amount. D) A fake or incomplete purchase. Answer: B) Stealing something from a store. Example: “The street gang went into the store and made a zero-dollar purchase.”
9,252	What does the idiom “I’m a little bit rusty” mean? A) I’m feeling tired. B) I’m well-prepared. C) I’m angry. D) I’m out of practice. Answer: D) I’m out of practice. Example: “I haven’t played piano in years, so I’m a little bit rusty.”
9,253	What does the idiom “To make matters worse” mean? A) To improve a situation. B) To exaggerate a problem. C) To worsen an already bad situation. D) To simplify a difficult problem. Answer: C) To worsen an already bad situation. Example: “The car broke down, and to make matters worse, it started raining.”
9,254	What does the idiom “The building only remains standing by ‘force of habit’” mean? A) The building is extremely well-built. B) The building is frequently renovated. C) The building is about to collapse. D) The building is barely holding together. Answer: D) The building is barely holding together. Example: “That old warehouse looks like it’s only standing by force of habit.”
9,255	What does the idiom “Capital improvement project” mean? A) A temporary repair to infrastructure. B) A financial bailout for businesses. C) A large investment to upgrade property or infrastructure. D) A routine inspection of property. Answer: C) A large investment to upgrade property or infrastructure. Example: “The city announced a capital improvement project to upgrade local bridges.”
9,256	What does the idiom “Have I ever steered you wrong” mean? A) Have I ever given you bad advice? B) Have I ever ignored your concerns? C) Have I ever failed in my work? D) Have I ever disagreed with you? Answer: A) Have I ever given you bad advice? Example: “Trust me on this one; have I ever steered you wrong before?”
9,257	What does the idiom “Brings back memories” mean? A) Something causes you to forget the past. B) Something triggers nostalgia or past experiences. C) Something is hard to remember. D) Something feels unfamiliar. Answer: B) Something triggers nostalgia or past experiences. Example: “Hearing that song brings back memories of summer vacations.”
9,258	What does the idiom “Maybe a couple hours in the tank will change your mind (police)” mean? A) A short break will provide clarity. B) A time-out will calm you down. C) Spending time in jail might change your attitude. D) Driving around will offer new perspectives. Answer: C) Spending time in jail might change your attitude. Example: “The officer said, ‘Maybe a couple hours in the tank will change your mind about cooperating.’”
9,259	What does the idiom “Cut back on the sweets” mean? A) Eat more desserts. B) Share your desserts with others. C) Save candy for later. D) Reduce sugar intake. Answer: D) Reduce sugar intake. Example: “Your doctor said you need to cut back on the sweets for your health.”
9,260	What does the idiom “You’re starting like the Pillsbury Dough Boy” mean? A) You’re starting with great confidence. B) You’re starting slowly and cautiously. C) You’re soft, unfit, or hesitant in your approach. D) You’re starting with excessive enthusiasm. Answer: C) You’re soft, unfit, or hesitant in your approach. Example: “You need to hit the gym; you’re starting to look like the Pillsbury Dough Boy!”
9,261	What does the idiom “You’re falling apart” mean? A) You’re losing control emotionally or physically. B) You’re growing stronger every day. C) You’re getting smarter with time. D) You’re finishing a project successfully. Answer: A) You’re losing control emotionally or physically. Example: “After working three nights straight, you’re falling apart; take a break.”
9,262	What does the idiom “Father Christmas” mean? A) A religious leader. B) A wealthy old man. C) Santa Claus or a symbol of Christmas giving. D) A historical holiday figure. Answer: C) Santa Claus or a symbol of Christmas giving. Example: “The kids were excited when Father Christmas arrived with a sack full of gifts.”
9,263	What does the idiom “Seeing is believing” mean? A) You must trust without evidence. B) Things are often deceiving. C) You need to see something to believe it’s true. D) Belief comes before understanding. Answer: C) You need to see something to believe it’s true. Example: “I couldn’t believe how big their house was; seeing is believing.”
9,264	What does the idiom “The kitchen’s always open” mean? A) The kitchen is frequently remodeled. B) The kitchen has no doors. C) The kitchen staff works 24/7. D) Food is always available or hospitality is ongoing. Answer: D) Food is always available or hospitality is ongoing. Example: “Stay as long as you like; the kitchen’s always open here.”
9,265	What does the idiom “Coffee break” mean? A) A meeting over coffee. B) A long vacation from work. C) A short break, often to have coffee. D) A casual conversation at work. Answer: C) A short break, often to have coffee. Example: “Let’s take a coffee break before starting the next task.”
9,266	What does the idiom “Rose such a clatter” mean? A) A sudden loud noise occurred. B) Someone was arguing loudly. C) There was a quiet disruption. D) There was a festive celebration. Answer: A) A sudden loud noise occurred. Example: “I heard a loud bang from the roof; rose such a clatter, I had to check what was going on.”
9,267	What does the idiom “Tuesday night works for me” mean? A) Tuesday night is uncertain. B) Tuesday night is the only available time. C) Tuesday night is always busy. D) Tuesday night is a convenient time for me. Answer: D) Tuesday night is a convenient time for me. Example: “Let’s plan the meeting for Tuesday night; it works for me.”
9,268	What does the idiom “Brown water navy” mean? A) A navy that operates in rivers and shallow waters. B) A navy focused on environmental conservation. C) A navy that deals with underwater exploration. D) A navy focused on desert warfare. Answer: A) A navy that operates in rivers and shallow waters. Example: “The country is so poor and weak that it only has a brown water navy.”
9,269	What does the idiom “Life moved on without me” mean? A) Life became easier. B) Life stopped suddenly. C) Life continued while I felt stuck or left behind. D) Life became confusing. Answer: C) Life continued while I felt stuck or left behind. Example: “After my injury, I felt like life moved on without me while I was stuck in recovery.”
9,270	What does the idiom “Cookie cutter approach” mean? A) A creative and innovative strategy. B) A standardized or one-size-fits-all method. C) A complicated and overly detailed process. D) A rushed and poorly planned solution. Answer: B) A standardized or one-size-fits-all method. Example: “The school uses a cookie cutter approach to teaching, with no room for creativity.”
9,271	What does the idiom “Beach bum” mean? A) Someone who dislikes beaches. B) Someone who collects seashells. C) Someone who works at a beach resort. D) Someone who spends a lot of time at the beach, often aimlessly. Answer: D) Someone who spends a lot of time at the beach, often aimlessly. Example: “He quit his corporate job and became a beach bum, living by the shore every day.”
9,272	What does the idiom “Hitchhiking” mean? A) Traveling by paying for taxis. B) Traveling by asking for free rides from strangers. C) Traveling on foot across long distances. D) Traveling without any luggage. Answer: B) Traveling by asking for free rides from strangers. Example: “He spent his gap year hitchhiking across Europe.”
9,273	What does the idiom “She dumped on me” mean? A) She ignored me completely. B) She gave me helpful advice. C) She criticized me harshly or unloaded her problems on me. D) She offered me an apology. Answer: C) She criticized me harshly or unloaded her problems on me. Example: “I tried to help, but instead, she just dumped on me about everything wrong in her life.”
9,274	What does the idiom “Thumbing a ride” mean? A) Giving someone directions. B) Hitchhiking or asking for a free ride. C) Driving at a slow speed. D) Repairing a broken vehicle. Answer: B) Hitchhiking or asking for a free ride. Example: “Back in college, I spent a summer thumbing a ride across the country.”
9,275	What does the idiom “Well, I’ll be” mean? A) An expression of surprise or disbelief. B) An expression of anger. C) An admission of guilt. D) A farewell statement. Answer: A) An expression of surprise or disbelief. Example: “You finished the marathon in under three hours? Well, I’ll be!”
9,276	What does the idiom “The be-all and end-all” mean? A) The first step of a long process. B) The most important or ultimate thing. C) Something completely unnecessary. D) Something temporary and fleeting. Answer: B) The most important or ultimate thing. Example: “For him, winning the championship was the be-all and end-all of his career.”
9,277	What does the phrase “The Captain said, ‘Lieutenant, that is how we are going to do it.’” imply? A) The Captain is unsure of the plan. B) Using the person’s rank in the sentence is the leader’s way of saying that this conversation is over. C) The Lieutenant is taking charge of the situation. D) The Captain is expressing doubt. Answer: B) Using the person’s rank in the sentence is the leader’s way of saying that this conversation is over. Example: “The Captain said, ‘Lieutenant, that is how we are going to do it.’ This showed the Lieutenant that the conversation was over.”
9,278	What does the idiom “Step 9” mean? A) A step in financial planning. B) A step in resolving emotional trauma. C) A step in making amends with people harmed during addiction. D) A step in starting over professionally. Answer: C) A step in making amends with people harmed during addiction. Example: “He reached Step 9 and started reaching out to those he had hurt.”
9,279	What does the idiom “You’re not going to make it easy on me, are you?” mean? A) You are offering to help me with something. B) You are deliberately making something more difficult for me. C) You are giving me all the resources I need. D) You are ignoring my requests. Answer: B) You are deliberately making something more difficult for me. Example: “You keep asking tough questions in this interview; you’re not going to make it easy on me, are you?”
9,280	What does the idiom “The father’s tax” mean? A) Financial support given by a father. B) Emotional responsibility felt by a father. C) It is a playful way of saying that you want something that belongs to your child. D) A formal tax imposed on fathers. Answer: C) It is a playful way of saying that you want something that belongs to your child. Example: “May I have some of your candy. Just consider it a father’s tax.”
9,281	What does the idiom “Summer romance” mean? A) A brief romantic relationship during the summer. B) A long-lasting romantic commitment. C) A friendship formed during vacation. D) A romantic movie set in summer. Answer: A) A brief romantic relationship during the summer. Example: “They met on vacation and had a classic summer romance.”
9,282	What does the idiom “Over the top apology” mean? A) An insincere apology. B) An apology that’s excessive and dramatic. C) A brief and casual apology. D) An apology given reluctantly. Answer: B) An apology that’s excessive and dramatic. Example: “He brought flowers, chocolates, and a handwritten letter; it was an over-the-top apology.”
9,283	What does the idiom “It happened under my roof” mean? A) It happened without anyone noticing. B) It happened far away from me. C) It happened in my home or under my supervision. D) It happened in someone else’s house. Answer: C) It happened in my home or under my supervision. Example: “I can’t believe such dishonesty happened under my roof.”
9,284	What does the idiom “Geez, O Pete” mean? A) A formal greeting. B) An expression of frustration, surprise, or disbelief. C) A casual farewell. D) A term of endearment. Answer: B) An expression of frustration, surprise, or disbelief. Example: “Geez, O Pete! You scared me half to death sneaking up like that!”
9,285	What does the idiom “Hide nor hair” mean? A) No sign or trace of someone or something. B) A slight suspicion about someone. C) A visible clue left behind. D) A confusing situation. Answer: A) No sign or trace of someone or something. Example: “He disappeared last week, and we haven’t seen hide nor hair of him since.”
9,286	What does the idiom “I’ve seen and heard it all” mean? A) I am very observant. B) I am tired of listening. C) Nothing surprises me anymore. D) I have a vivid imagination. Answer: C) Nothing surprises me anymore. Example: “After working in customer service for 20 years, I’ve seen and heard it all.”
9,287	What does the idiom “So, what’s the damage?” mean? A) What’s the physical harm? B) How much will it cost? C) What’s the worst-case scenario? D) Who is responsible for this? Answer: B) How much will it cost? Example: “After finishing dinner, he asked the waiter, ‘So, what’s the damage?’”
9,288	What does the idiom “Shortsighted” mean? A) Unable to see clearly without glasses. B) Extremely focused on every small detail. C) Focused only on immediate benefits, not long-term consequences. D) Ignoring current opportunities. Answer: C) Focused only on immediate benefits, not long-term consequences. Example: “Cutting funding for education is a shortsighted decision.”
9,289	What does the idiom “The camera loves her” mean? A) She avoids being photographed. B) She looks great on camera. C) She doesn’t know how to pose for photos. D) She works as a professional photographer. Answer: B) She looks great on camera. Example: “Every photo of her turns out amazing; the camera really loves her.”
9,290	What does the idiom “No matter how you slice it” mean? A) It’s not worth considering. B) The outcome remains the same, regardless of perspective. C) It’s a complicated issue. D) It’s impossible to fix. Answer: B) The outcome remains the same, regardless of perspective. Example: “No matter how you slice it, quitting your job without a backup plan is risky.”
9,291	What does the idiom “Language is fluid” mean? A) Language is hard to understand. B) Language constantly evolves and changes. C) Language is set in stone. D) Language is difficult to learn. Answer: B) Language constantly evolves and changes. Example: “New slang emerges all the time because language is fluid.”
9,292	What does the idiom “The weight of sin” mean? A) Feeling guilt or remorse for wrongdoing. B) Carrying a physical burden. C) Being overly cautious. D) Avoiding responsibility. Answer: A) Feeling guilt or remorse for wrongdoing. Example: “He couldn’t shake off the weight of sin after betraying his friend.”
9,293	What does the idiom “Cherry on top” mean? A) The most difficult part of a task. B) An unnecessary but nice addition to something good. C) A disappointing ending. D) A small but critical detail. Answer: B) An unnecessary but nice addition to something good. Example: “The vacation was amazing, and the upgrade to first class was the cherry on top.”
9,294	What does the idiom “Pig out” mean? A) Eat a small portion carefully. B) Avoid eating altogether. C) Eat an excessive amount of food. D) Cook for a large group of people. Answer: C) Eat an excessive amount of food. Example: “We decided to pig out at the buffet after our long hike.”
9,295	What does the idiom “This is for the birds” mean? A) This is excellent. B) This is pointless or not worth it. C) This is very expensive. D) This is confusing. Answer: B) This is pointless or not worth it. Example: “This meeting is for the birds; we’re not achieving anything.”
9,296	What does the idiom “He’s running in circles” mean? A) He’s confused and making no progress. B) He’s exercising hard. C) He’s achieving great success. D) He’s avoiding responsibility. Answer: A) He’s confused and making no progress. Example: “He’s been running in circles trying to solve that problem for hours.”
9,297	What does the idiom “Crack the door” mean? A) Break the door open. B) Close the door tightly. C) Open the door slightly. D) Lock the door securely. Answer: C) Open the door slightly. Example: “Could you crack the door? It’s getting too warm in here.”
9,298	What does the idiom “Get off my back” mean? A) Stop bothering or criticizing me. B) Carry me to safety. C) Help me with my task. D) Ignore me entirely. Answer: A) Stop bothering or criticizing me. Example: “I’m doing my best, so get off my back!”
9,299	What does the idiom “Crack a window” mean? A) Break a window intentionally. B) Open a window slightly. C) Shut the window tightly. D) Clean the window thoroughly. Answer: B) Open a window slightly. Example: “It’s stuffy in here; can someone crack a window?”
9,300	What does the idiom “Keep your shirt on” mean? A) Stay calm and patient. B) Be overly excited. C) Stay alert. D) Get ready to leave. Answer: A) Stay calm and patient. Example: “We’ll get there soon. Keep your shirt on!”
9,301	What does the idiom “I have a frog in my throat” mean? A) I feel extremely happy. B) I have a sore throat or difficulty speaking. C) I feel nervous or anxious. D) I am very angry. Answer: B) I have a sore throat or difficulty speaking. Example: “Sorry, I have a frog in my throat; I can barely talk.”
9,302	What does the idiom “You can say that again” mean? A) I disagree completely. B) I didn’t hear you; repeat that. C) I strongly agree with you. D) That’s a confusing statement. Answer: C) I strongly agree with you. Example: “You can say that again! This is the best pizza I’ve ever had!”
9,303	What does the idiom “Weigh your options” mean? A) Make a quick decision. B) Carefully consider different choices. C) Ignore the consequences. D) Take the easiest path. Answer: B) Carefully consider different choices. Example: “Before accepting the job offer, you should weigh your options carefully.”
9,304	What does the idiom “We need to beef it up” mean? A) To make something stronger or more effective. B) To remove unnecessary elements. C) To reduce the size of something. D) To make something tastier. Answer: A) To make something stronger or more effective. Example: “Our security measures are weak; we need to beef them up before the event.”
9,305	What does the idiom “Watching grass grow” mean? A) Something extremely exciting. B) Something boring or uninteresting. C) Something very educational. D) Something extremely confusing. Answer: B) Something boring or uninteresting. Example: “That lecture was like watching grass grow.”
9,306	What does the idiom “Under the wire” mean? A) Completed just in time. B) Finished too late. C) Failed to meet expectations. D) Worked without supervision. Answer: A) Completed just in time. Example: “We submitted the assignment under the wire, just before the deadline closed.”
9,307	What does the idiom “Turn turtle” mean? A) To become extremely slow. B) To capsize or turn upside down. C) To make slow progress. D) To stop working entirely. Answer: B) To capsize or turn upside down. Example: “The boat hit a rock and turned turtle in the middle of the lake.”
9,308	What does the idiom “Touch with a barge pole” mean? A) To inspect something closely. B) To handle something carefully. C) To avoid something at all costs. D) To fix something quickly. Answer: C) To avoid something at all costs. Example: “That risky investment is something I wouldn’t touch with a barge pole.”
9,309	What does the idiom “To take a shine to” mean? A) To clean something thoroughly. B) To start liking someone or something very much. C) To criticize someone openly. D) To lose interest quickly. Answer: B) To start liking someone or something very much. Example: “She took a shine to the new puppy the moment she saw it.”
9,310	What does the idiom “Slim to nothing” mean? A) Very little chance of success. B) A guarantee of success. C) A moderate chance of success. D) An equal chance of success and failure. Answer: A) Very little chance of success. Example: “Our chances of finishing the project on time are slim to nothing.”
9,311	What does the idiom “Threw a wrench into it” mean? A) Made something more efficient. B) Added an unexpected problem or obstacle. C) Completed a task flawlessly. D) Ignored an important detail. Answer: B) Added an unexpected problem or obstacle. Example: “The sudden software crash threw a wrench into our presentation plans.”
9,312	What does the idiom “Throw caution to the wind” mean? A) Be extremely careful about something. B) Avoid making any decisions. C) Follow strict safety measures. D) Take a risk without worrying about the consequences. Answer: D) Take a risk without worrying about the consequences. Example: “He decided to throw caution to the wind and invest all his savings into the startup.”
9,313	What does the idiom “They priced themselves right out of business” mean? A) They lowered their prices too much. B) They raised their prices too high for customers. C) They offered too many discounts. D) They stopped advertising entirely. Answer: B) They raised their prices too high for customers. Example: “By charging such high fees, they priced themselves right out of business.”
9,314	What does the idiom “The dead letter department” mean? A) A place for important records. B) A division for secret government documents. C) A section handling undeliverable mail. D) A department managing complaints. Answer: C) A section handling undeliverable mail. Example: “The wrongly addressed letter ended up in the dead letter department.”
9,315	What does the idiom “Steal the march” mean? A) To plan a quick escape. B) To gain an advantage by acting before others. C) To cancel an event. D) To lose an opportunity. Answer: B) To gain an advantage by acting before others. Example: “The company stole the march on its competitors by launching early.”
9,316	What does the idiom “Slim chance” mean? A) A very low likelihood. B) A very high likelihood. C) A random possibility. D) An equal chance of success or failure. Answer: A) A very low likelihood. Example: “There’s a slim chance of finishing this project by tomorrow.”
9,317	What does the idiom “Skirt the question” mean? A) To answer directly and confidently. B) To ask a different question. C) To avoid answering the question directly. D) To repeat the question. Answer: C) To avoid answering the question directly. Example: “When asked about the budget, the manager skirted the question.”
9,318	What does the idiom “She is palsy-walsy” mean? A) She is overly serious. B) She is overly friendly, sometimes insincerely. C) She is extremely shy. D) She is very strict. Answer: B) She is overly friendly, sometimes insincerely. Example: “She acts all palsy-walsy when the boss is around.”
9,319	What does the idiom “Sacred cow” mean? A) Something mysterious and unknown. B) Something completely useless. C) Something temporary. D) Something highly respected and untouchable. Answer: D) Something highly respected and untouchable. Example: “In this company, the old processes are treated like a sacred cow.”
9,320	What does the idiom “Piss poor chance” mean? A) A very low chance of success. B) An extremely high chance of success. C) A balanced chance of success. D) A random chance of success. Answer: A) A very low chance of success. Example: “We have a piss poor chance of winning with this strategy.”
9,321	What does the idiom “He was pissed off” mean? A) He was extremely happy. B) He was extremely tired. C) He was extremely angry. D) He was extremely confused. Answer: C) He was extremely angry. Example: “He was really pissed off when someone scratched his new car.”
9,322	What does the idiom “He’s a renaissance man” mean? A) He is knowledgeable and skilled in many areas. B) He is stuck in old-fashioned ways. C) He is an artist by profession. D) He avoids learning new things. Answer: A) He is knowledgeable and skilled in many areas. Example: “He can paint, play piano, and code; he’s a true renaissance man.”
9,323	What does the idiom “Rob the cradle” mean? A) To babysit frequently. B) To steal valuable items. C) To date someone significantly younger. D) To act very immature. Answer: C) To date someone significantly younger. Example: “Everyone was talking about how he seems to be robbing the cradle with his new girlfriend.”
9,324	What does the idiom “Put on your poker face” mean? A) To show excitement openly. B) To remain calm and expressionless. C) To play cards seriously. D) To act suspiciously. Answer: B) To remain calm and expressionless. Example: “During negotiations, you need to put on your poker face and not reveal your thoughts.”
9,325	What does the idiom “Skirt the rules” mean? A) To follow the rules strictly. B) To rewrite the rules. C) To avoid or bend the rules without technically breaking them. D) To question the fairness of the rules. Answer: C) To avoid or bend the rules without technically breaking them. Example: “He always finds a way to skirt the rules without getting caught.”
9,326	What does the idiom “Flimflam artist” mean? A) A creative performer. B) A skilled con artist or swindler. C) A talented negotiator. D) An experienced salesperson. Answer: B) A skilled con artist or swindler. Example: “That guy’s nothing but a flimflam artist; he sold me a fake watch.”
9,327	What does the idiom “Pick pocket” mean? A) Someone who borrows money frequently. B) Someone who loses their wallet frequently. C) A person who collects small items. D) A skilled thief who steals from people’s pockets. Answer: D) A skilled thief who steals from people’s pockets. Example: “Be careful in crowded places; there are pickpockets around.”
9,328	What does the idiom “Piss like a racehorse” mean? A) To run very quickly. B) To urinate a lot. C) To drink excessively. D) To feel exhausted. Answer: B) To urinate a lot. Example: “After drinking two bottles of water, I had to piss like a racehorse.”
9,329	What does the idiom “Paper trail” mean? A) A series of paper airplanes. B) A mess of scattered papers. C) Written records or documentation that show a series of actions. D) A collection of random notes. Answer: C) Written records or documentation that show a series of actions. Example: “The investigators followed the paper trail to uncover the fraud scheme.”
9,330	What does the idiom “Not in my books” mean? A) I agree completely. B) I don’t approve or agree with it. C) I am uncertain about it. D) I have written about it before. Answer: B) I don’t approve or agree with it. Example: “Apologizing for something you didn’t do? That’s not in my books.”
9,331	What does the idiom “Raking in the dough” mean? A) Earning a lot of money quickly. B) Spending money carelessly. C) Saving money cautiously. D) Losing money consistently. Answer: A) Earning a lot of money quickly. Example: “Ever since he launched his business, he’s been raking in the dough.”
9,332	What does the idiom “More holes than a Swiss cheese” mean? A) Something is perfect. B) Something is expensive. C) Something has many flaws or problems. D) Something is mysterious. Answer: C) Something has many flaws or problems. Example: “Your argument has more holes than a Swiss cheese.”
9,333	What does the idiom “Make a dog’s dinner of things” mean? A) Make something look fancy. B) Completely mess something up. C) Prepare something perfectly. D) Finish a task quickly. Answer: B) Completely mess something up. Example: “He made a dog’s dinner of the presentation; it was all over the place.”
9,334	What does the idiom “Lock the barn door after the horse got out” mean? A) Take precautions after it’s too late. B) Prevent a problem before it happens. C) Act quickly and decisively. D) Avoid unnecessary risks. Answer: A) Take precautions after it’s too late. Example: “Installing security cameras after the break-in is like locking the barn door after the horse got out.”
9,335	What does the idiom “Tail wags the dog” mean? A) Someone is overly cautious. B) Everything is under control. C) A leader is taking charge. D) A minor detail controls the whole situation. Answer: D) A minor detail controls the whole situation. Example: “In this debate, it feels like the tail is wagging the dog.”
9,336	What does the idiom “Like a dog with two tails” mean? A) Extremely happy or excited. B) Confused and indecisive. C) Tired and frustrated. D) Overly aggressive. Answer: A) Extremely happy or excited. Example: “He was like a dog with two tails when he got the job offer.”
9,337	What does the idiom “Lay out the welcome mat” mean? A) To set up a formal event. B) To avoid guests entirely. C) To plan an escape. D) To invite someone warmly. Answer: D) To invite someone warmly. Example: “Whenever family visits, we lay out the welcome mat for them.”
9,338	What does the idiom “Lay it on thick” mean? A) To exaggerate or overstate something. B) To explain something briefly. C) To avoid expressing emotions. D) To make something clear and simple. Answer: A) To exaggerate or overstate something. Example: “You don’t have to lay it on thick; I know you liked my cooking.”
9,339	What does the idiom “Keep up appearances” mean? A) Speak openly about problems. B) Be honest about your struggles. C) Stop trying to impress others. D) Maintain the outward image of success or normalcy. Answer: D) Maintain the outward image of success or normalcy. Example: “Even though they were struggling financially, they tried to keep up appearances.”
9,340	What does the idiom “Jumping ship” mean? A) Leaving a situation or job suddenly. B) Taking charge of a difficult situation. C) Improving a project rapidly. D) Celebrating a team victory. Answer: A) Leaving a situation or job suddenly. Example: “When the company started failing, many employees started jumping ship.”
9,341	What does the idiom “January doldrums” mean? A) The excitement of the new year. B) A period of low energy or enthusiasm after the holidays. C) A time of financial growth. D) A time of increased productivity. Answer: B) A period of low energy or enthusiasm after the holidays. Example: “Everyone feels the January doldrums after the excitement of the holidays fades away.”
9,342	What does the idiom “Hinky” mean? A) Suspicious or questionable. B) Perfectly reliable. C) Easy to understand. D) Overly complicated. Answer: A) Suspicious or questionable. Example: “The deal seems a bit hinky; I wouldn’t trust them completely.”
9,343	What does the idiom “Janky” mean? A) Reliable and strong. B) Highly expensive. C) Outdated, low-quality, or unreliable. D) Brand new and polished. Answer: C) Outdated, low-quality, or unreliable. Example: “This old laptop is so janky; it freezes every five minutes!”
9,344	What does the idiom “It is a Chinese whisper” mean? A) A confusing puzzle. B) A story altered as it’s passed from person to person. C) A secret that’s well-kept. D) A loud public announcement. Answer: B) A story altered as it’s passed from person to person. Example: “By the time the news reached me, it was nothing but a Chinese whisper.”
9,345	What does the idiom “Is the Pope Catholic?” mean? A) It’s a serious question. B) It’s a humorous joke. C) It’s an obvious yes. D) It’s a confusing statement. Answer: C) It’s an obvious yes. Example: “Do I want pizza for dinner? Is the Pope Catholic?”
9,346	What does the idiom “In the pink of health” mean? A) Feeling extremely tired. B) Feeling overly cautious. C) Feeling extremely sad. D) Feeling extremely healthy and well. Answer: D) Feeling extremely healthy and well. Example: “After months of rest and a balanced diet, she’s in the pink of health.”
9,347	What does the idiom “I’m hard up right now” mean? A) I’m extremely busy. B) I’m facing financial difficulties. C) I’m feeling very confident. D) I’m working on multiple projects. Answer: B) I’m facing financial difficulties. Example: “I can’t lend you money; I’m hard up right now myself.”
9,348	What does the idiom “I was flabbergasted” mean? A) I was extremely surprised or shocked. B) I was extremely tired. C) I was extremely confident. D) I was extremely angry. Answer: A) I was extremely surprised or shocked. Example: “When I saw the final bill, I was absolutely flabbergasted!”
9,349	What does the idiom “He will skin me alive” mean? A) He will reward me generously. B) He will ignore me completely. C) He will punish or scold me severely. D) He will challenge me to a competition. Answer: C) He will punish or scold me severely. Example: “If my dad finds out I dented the car, he’ll skin me alive!”
9,350	What does the idiom “I jumped out of my skin” mean? A) I was extremely surprised or scared. B) I was extremely tired. C) I was extremely happy. D) I was extremely confused. Answer: A) I was extremely surprised or scared. Example: “When the fire alarm went off, I jumped out of my skin!”
9,351	What does the idiom “I got them up against the ropes” mean? A) I’m losing the fight. B) I’m planning a retreat. C) I’m avoiding confrontation. D) I have them in a vulnerable position. Answer: D) I have them in a vulnerable position. Example: “During the debate, I had them up against the ropes with my final argument.”
9,352	What does the idiom “I call bagsy” mean? A) I volunteer to do it. B) I refuse to participate. C) I claim it first. D) I want to switch tasks. Answer: C) I claim it first. Example: “I call bagsy on the front seat for the road trip!”
9,353	What does the idiom “Hunky-dory” mean? A) Everything is fine and going well. B) Everything is chaotic and out of control. C) Everything is questionable. D) Everything is predictable. Answer: A) Everything is fine and going well. Example: “After fixing the car, everything was hunky-dory again.”
9,354	What does the idiom “Hill of beans” mean? A) Something very valuable. B) Something of little or no value. C) Something rare and unique. D) Something confusing. Answer: B) Something of little or no value. Example: “His opinion doesn’t amount to a hill of beans in this situation.”
9,355	What does the idiom “Heart in mouth” mean? A) Feeling extremely confident. B) Feeling extremely happy. C) Feeling extremely nervous or scared. D) Feeling extremely tired. Answer: B) Feeling extremely nervous or scared. Example: “My heart was in my mouth as I waited for the exam results.”
9,356	What does the idiom “He’s on a bender” mean? A) He’s on vacation. B) He’s avoiding responsibilities. C) He’s working non-stop. D) He’s drinking excessively over a long period of time. Answer: D) He’s drinking excessively over a long period of time. Example: “He disappeared for three days; apparently, he was on a bender.”
9,357	What does the idiom “He’s a brain box” mean? A) He is very intelligent or clever. B) He is a slow learner. C) He is overly cautious. D) He is absent-minded. Answer: A) He is very intelligent or clever. Example: “Ask him about the math problem; he’s a real brain box.”
9,358	What does the idiom “That was a major blunder” mean? A) That was a brilliant strategy. B) That was a clever trick. C) That was an intentional decision. D) That was a terrible mistake. Answer: D) That was a terrible mistake. Example: “Leaving the project unfinished was a major blunder on his part.”
9,359	What does the idiom “He pulled a blinder” mean? A) He made an impressive and surprising move. B) He made a critical error. C) He ignored his responsibilities. D) He backed out of a promise. Answer: A) He made an impressive and surprising move. Example: “During the match, he pulled a blinder with that incredible final goal.”
9,360	What does the idiom “He made a spectacle of himself” mean? A) He acted impressively. B) He ignored everyone. C) He embarrassed himself publicly. D) He made an important discovery. Answer: C) He embarrassed himself publicly. Example: “He made a spectacle of himself by yelling at the waiter in the restaurant.”
9,361	What does the idiom “He is such a flake” mean? A) He is highly dependable. B) He is unreliable and often cancels plans. C) He is very creative. D) He is overly confident. Answer: B) He is unreliable and often cancels plans. Example: “He promised to help move the furniture, but he’s such a flake; I doubt he’ll show up.”
9,362	What does the idiom “He is a relentless foe” mean? A) He is an unreliable ally. B) He is easily defeated. C) He is a persistent and determined enemy. D) He is a cautious opponent. Answer: C) He is a persistent and determined enemy. Example: “On the chessboard, he’s a relentless foe who never gives up.”
9,363	What does the idiom “He got my goat” mean? A) He inspired me. B) He gave me a gift. C) He confused me. D) He annoyed or irritated me. Answer: D) He annoyed or irritated me. Example: “His constant bragging really got my goat during the meeting.”
9,364	What does the idiom “He got hosed” mean? A) He was cheated or taken advantage of. B) He was rewarded unexpectedly. C) He avoided punishment. D) He received special treatment. Answer: A) He was cheated or taken advantage of. Example: “When they sold him that faulty car, he really got hosed.”
9,365	What does the idiom “He got canned” mean? A) He was given a promotion. B) He was praised publicly. C) He was fired from his job. D) He was given an award. Answer: C) He was fired from his job. Example: “After repeated mistakes, he finally got canned from his position.”
9,366	What does the idiom “Above my pay grade” mean? A) It’s not my responsibility or decision to make. B) I am well-qualified for this task. C) I am being underpaid for my work. D) I’m the highest authority here. Answer: A) It’s not my responsibility or decision to make. Example: “Deciding on company policy changes is above my pay grade; you’ll have to talk to the boss.”
9,367	What does the idiom “He botched the job” mean? A) He completed the job perfectly. B) He finished the job quickly. C) He messed up the job badly. D) He refused to do the job. Answer: C) He messed up the job badly. Example: “He botched the job so badly that we had to start over from scratch.”
9,368	What does the idiom “Went right over my head” mean? A) I avoided the situation. B) I didn’t understand it at all. C) I ignored the comment. D) I reacted quickly. Answer: B) I didn’t understand it at all. Example: “The professor’s explanation went right over my head; I couldn’t follow any of it.”
9,369	What does the idiom “He blew right by me” mean? A) He ignored me completely. B) He stopped to talk briefly. C) He passed me quickly without stopping. D) He took a wrong turn. Answer: C) He passed me quickly without stopping. Example: “He was driving so fast that he blew right by me on the highway.”
9,370	What does the idiom “Guinea pig” mean? A) Someone who is confident. B) Someone who avoids risks. C) Someone who loves animals. D) Someone used for an experiment or trial. Answer: D) Someone used for an experiment or trial. Example: “I felt like a guinea pig when they asked me to test their new software.”
9,371	What does the idiom “Goody two-shoes” mean? A) Someone who always follows the rules and avoids trouble. B) Someone who is always causing problems. C) Someone who is overly competitive. D) Someone who lacks discipline. Answer: A) Someone who always follows the rules and avoids trouble. Example: “She’s such a goody two-shoes, always volunteering and following the rules.”
9,372	What does the idiom “Give me chapter and verse” mean? A) Give me a vague idea. D) Give me a general summary. C) Give me detailed and exact information. D) Give me something creative. Answer: C) Give me detailed and exact information. Example: “I need proof; give me chapter and verse about what happened.”
9,373	What does the idiom “Eager beaver” mean? A) Someone who avoids responsibility. B) Someone who dislikes teamwork. C) Someone who procrastinates often. D) Someone who works hard and enthusiastically. Answer: D) Someone who works hard and enthusiastically. Example: “The new intern is an eager beaver; always the first to volunteer for tasks.”
9,374	What does the idiom “Doomed from the start” mean? A) Destined to fail from the beginning. B) Destined to succeed against the odds. C) Uncertain from the start. D) Open to many possibilities. Answer: A) Destined to fail from the beginning. Example: “Without proper planning, the project was doomed from the start.”
9,375	What does the idiom “Don’t make an ass of yourself” mean? A) Don’t be overly cautious. B) Don’t take risks. C) Don’t be overly confident. D) Don’t act foolishly or embarrass yourself. Answer: D) Don’t act foolishly or embarrass yourself. Example: “You’ve had enough to drink; don’t make an ass of yourself at the party.”
9,376	What does the idiom “Cuckoo in the nest” mean? A) Someone who is in their rightful place. B) Someone who is well-liked in a team. C) Someone who doesn’t belong in a group. D) Someone who is extremely cautious. Answer: C) Someone who doesn’t belong in a group. Example: “He felt like a cuckoo in the nest during the family reunion because he didn’t know anyone well.”
9,377	What does the idiom “Bring to heel” mean? A) To gain control or to discipline someone. B) To follow someone blindly. C) To stop someone from advancing. D) To encourage someone to lead. Answer: A) To gain control or to discipline someone. Example: “The manager had to bring the rebellious team to heel after repeated mistakes.”
9,378	What does the idiom “Boozehound” mean? A) Someone who dislikes parties. B) Someone who avoids alcohol. C) Someone who serves drinks. D) Someone who drinks excessively. Answer: D) Someone who drinks excessively. Example: “He’s known as the office boozehound; always the first one at the bar after work.”
9,379	What does the idiom “Bog-standard” mean? A) Extremely high quality. B) Very expensive. C) Plain, basic, or ordinary. D) Unusable or broken. Answer: C) Plain, basic, or ordinary. Example: “The phone isn’t fancy; it’s just a bog-standard model.”
9,380	What does the idiom “At sixes and sevens” mean? A) Completely organized and efficient. B) Acting confidently and decisively. C) In a state of confusion or disarray. D) Being overly cautious. Answer: C) In a state of confusion or disarray. Example: “After the sudden resignation of their leader, the team was at sixes and sevens.”
9,381	What does the idiom “Are you putting me on?” mean? A) Are you dressing me in something? B) Are you joking or teasing me? C) Are you ignoring me? D) Are you challenging me? Answer: B) Are you joking or teasing me? Example: “You can’t be serious about winning the lottery; are you putting me on?”
9,382	What does the idiom “An ace up the sleeve” mean? A) A hidden advantage or resource. B) A visible advantage. C) A lucky coincidence. D) A failed attempt at success. Answer: A) A hidden advantage or resource. Example: “He had an ace up his sleeve during negotiations; a key piece of information the others didn’t know.”
9,383	What does the idiom “Bitter pill to swallow” mean? A) A sweet and pleasant experience. B) An embarrassing but funny moment. C) An unpleasant or painful reality to accept. D) A surprise gift or reward. Answer: C) An unpleasant or painful reality to accept. Example: “Losing the championship after leading the whole season was a bitter pill to swallow.”
9,384	What does the idiom “Alter ego” mean? A) A long-lost friend. B) A secret enemy. C) A close family member. D) A second or alternative personality. Answer: D) A second or alternative personality. Example: “Superman’s alter ego is Clark Kent, a mild-mannered reporter.”
9,385	What does the idiom “A May-December romance” mean? A) A relationship that started in May and ended in December. B) A romantic relationship with a significant age difference. C) A short-term romantic relationship. D) A secret romantic relationship. Answer: B) A romantic relationship with a significant age difference. Example: “Their May-December romance raised eyebrows because of their 25-year age gap.”
9,386	What does the idiom “A dog in the manger” mean? A) Someone who is overly generous. B) Someone who always saves resources for others. C) Someone who refuses to share something they don’t need. D) Someone who is confused in a chaotic situation. Answer: C) Someone who refuses to share something they don’t need. Example: “He doesn’t even like the car, but he won’t let anyone else drive it; he’s a real dog in the manger.”
9,387	What does the idiom “He’s gone overboard” mean? A) He fell off a ship. B) He stayed within limits. C) He refused to participate. D) He has done something to an excessive or extreme degree. Answer: D) He has done something to an excessive or extreme degree. Example: “He went overboard with the party decorations; it’s too much!”
9,388	What does the idiom “Green water navy” mean? A) A navy that operates in deep oceans. B) A navy that operates near coastal areas. C) A navy primarily focused on aerial missions. D) A navy that operates exclusively underwater. Answer: B) A navy that operates near coastal areas. Example: “Although the country was poor, they are able to maintain a green water navy.”
9,389	What does the idiom “On all fronts” mean? A) In every possible way or aspect. B) In a single, focused direction. C) On the sidelines of a conflict. D) With limited involvement. Answer: A) In every possible way or aspect. Example: “The company is fighting to stay profitable on all fronts; marketing, sales, and production.”
9,390	What does the idiom “I want you to know that I can get you any time” mean? A) I can defeat or outsmart you whenever I want. B) I am always available to help you. C) I will never speak to you again. D) I am avoiding you intentionally. Answer: A) I can defeat or outsmart you whenever I want. Example: “Don’t underestimate me; I want you to know I can get you any time.”
9,391	What does the idiom “She’s got eyes on you” mean? A) She is trying to avoid you. B) She is ignoring you. C) She is watching you closely. D) She is helping you secretly. Answer: C) She is watching you closely. Example: “Be careful what you say; she’s got eyes on you.”
9,392	What does the idiom “Far more” mean? A) Slightly more. B) Significantly or much more. C) Less than expected. D) About the same amount. Answer: B) Significantly or much more. Example: “The second movie was far more entertaining than the first one.”
9,393	What does the idiom “He pissed off that opportunity” mean? A) He took full advantage of the opportunity. B) He ignored the opportunity on purpose. C) He wasted or carelessly lost the opportunity. D) He was confused by the opportunity. Answer: C) He wasted or carelessly lost the opportunity. Example: “He had a chance to work for a top company, but he pissed off that opportunity by not preparing for the interview.”
9,394	What does the idiom “One-size-fits-all” mean? A) Suitable for everyone in every situation. B) Extremely customizable. C) Only works for specific individuals. D) Inflexible and rigid. Answer: A) Suitable for everyone in every situation. Example: “This training program isn’t one-size-fits-all; we’ll need to customize it for each team.”
9,395	What does the idiom “She hitched a ride” mean? A) She paid for a taxi. B) She walked a long distance. C) She caught a ride with someone. D) She bought a new car. Answer: C) She caught a ride with someone. Example: “Her car broke down, so she hitched a ride with her neighbor.”
9,396	What does the idiom “He tripped me up” mean? A) He physically caused me to fall. B) He helped me avoid a mistake. C) He intentionally confused or misled me. D) He encouraged me to move forward. Answer: C) He intentionally confused or misled me. Example: “During the debate, he tripped me up with his unexpected question.”
9,397	What does the idiom “Stepping on some toes” mean? A) Dancing clumsily. B) Avoiding confrontation. C) Walking carefully in a crowd. D) Accidentally offending or upsetting someone. Answer: D) Accidentally offending or upsetting someone. Example: “By suggesting new policies, he ended up stepping on some toes in management.”
9,398	What does the idiom “Trying to stay relevant” mean? A) Trying to avoid attention. B) Trying to ignore others’ opinions. C) Trying to remain important, useful, or up-to-date. D) Trying to avoid competition. Answer: C) Trying to remain important, useful, or up-to-date. Example: “In an ever-changing tech industry, companies are always trying to stay relevant.”
9,399	What does the idiom “It’s time to send it to the glue factory” mean? A) It’s time to repair something. B) It’s time to end or retire something old and useless. C) It’s time to replace something with a new version. D) It’s time to improve something outdated. Answer: B) It’s time to end or retire something old and useless. Example: “This old car keeps breaking down; it’s time to send it to the glue factory.”
9,400	What does the idiom “You’re such a punk” mean? A) You are brave and strong. B) You are extremely clever. C) You are rebellious or immature. D) You are well-behaved. Answer: C) You are rebellious or immature. Example: “Stop acting out in class; you’re such a punk sometimes.”
9,401	What does the idiom “He’s feeling punk right now” mean? A) He’s feeling rebellious. B) He’s feeling sick or unwell. C) He’s feeling overly confident. D) He’s feeling emotional. Answer: B) He’s feeling sick or unwell. Example: “He didn’t come to work because he’s feeling punk right now.”
9,402	What does the idiom “He’s bulletproof” mean? A) He’s physically strong. B) He’s emotionally vulnerable. C) He’s immune to criticism or consequences. D) He’s easily influenced. Answer: C) He’s immune to criticism or consequences. Example: “No matter what scandal happens, he remains bulletproof in the public eye.”
9,403	What does the idiom “He’s a Teflon president” mean? A) Nothing negative sticks to his reputation. B) He is extremely strict and serious. C) He is frequently criticized. D) He avoids making decisions. Answer: A) Nothing negative sticks to his reputation. Example: “Despite the controversy, he remains a Teflon president: nothing sticks to him.”
9,404	What does the idiom “He messed up big time” mean? A) He made a small mistake. B) He avoided making any mistakes. C) He made a very serious mistake. D) He corrected an error quickly. Answer: C) He made a very serious mistake. Example: “Forgetting to submit that report was a huge responsibility; he messed up big time.”
9,405	What does the idiom “The wind is starting to kick up” mean? A) The weather is calming down. B) The temperature is dropping. C) The wind is changing direction. D) The wind is getting stronger. Answer: D) The wind is getting stronger. Example: “We should pack up the picnic; the wind is starting to kick up.”
9,406	What does the idiom “Blue card” in relation to policeman refer to? A) A special access pass. B) A driver’s license issued to police officers. C) A penalty card in a game. D) A temporary identification card. Answer: B) A driver’s license issued to police officers. Example: “He flashed his blue card when asked for ID at the traffic stop.”
9,407	What does the idiom “You’re full of it” mean? A) You are speaking honestly. B) You are confused. C) You are lying or exaggerating. D) You are tired. Answer: C) You are lying or exaggerating. Example: “You expect me to believe that story? You’re full of it!”
9,408	What does the idiom “The wind is starting to pick up” mean? A) The wind is becoming weaker. B) The wind is getting stronger. C) The weather is becoming warmer. D) The wind is changing direction. Answer: B) The wind is getting stronger. Example: “We should secure the patio furniture; the wind is starting to pick up.”
9,409	What does the idiom “Don’t play these games with me” mean? A) Don’t joke around with me. B) Don’t invite me to play sports. C) Don’t try to deceive or manipulate me. D) Don’t argue with me. Answer: C) Don’t try to deceive or manipulate me. Example: “I know you’re hiding something; don’t play these games with me.”
9,410	What does the idiom “Pops into your head” mean? A) To forget something suddenly. B) To focus intensely on an idea. C) To dismiss a thought. D) To remember something without effort. Answer: D) To remember something without effort. Example: “His name just popped into my head when I saw his picture.”
9,411	What does the idiom “Came to my senses” mean? A) I became confused. B) I made a foolish decision. C) I became fully aware or realized something. D) I ignored good advice. Answer: C) I became fully aware or realized something. Example: “After arguing for hours, I finally came to my senses and apologized.”
9,412	What does the idiom “The years have marched on” mean? A) Time has passed slowly. B) Time has been wasted. C) Time has stood still. D) Time has passed quickly and noticeably. Answer: D) Time has passed quickly and noticeably. Example: “Looking at old photos, it’s clear the years have marched on for all of us.”
9,413	What does the idiom “Here are the victim’s effects” mean? A) The victim’s personal belongings. B) The victim’s emotional state. C) The victim’s family members. D) The victim’s medical condition. Answer: A) The victim’s personal belongings. Example: “After the investigation, the officer handed over a small box, saying, ‘Here are the victim’s effects.’”
9,414	What does the idiom “Can you give me any assurances?” mean? A) Can you give me an explanation? B) Can you tell me a story? C) Can you remind me of something? D) Can you promise me something will happen? Answer: D) Can you promise me something will happen? Example: “Before I invest in your business, can you give me any assurances that it will succeed?”
9,415	What does the idiom “I won’t stay dressed in black the rest of my life” mean? A) I won’t remain in mourning forever. B) I won’t wear dark clothes again. C) I won’t stay formal all the time. D) I won’t stop celebrating. Answer: A) I won’t remain in mourning forever. Example: “After losing her husband, she said, ‘I won’t stay dressed in black the rest of my life.’”
9,416	What does the idiom “Get to the heart of it” mean? A) Start from the very beginning. B) Avoid the main problem. C) Discuss things casually. D) Focus on the most important issue. Answer: D) Focus on the most important issue. Example: “We don’t have much time; let’s get to the heart of it.”
9,417	What does the idiom “You’re a man of the world” mean? A) You’re naive and inexperienced. B) You’re well-traveled and experienced. C) You’re uninterested in global issues. D) You’re overly emotional. Answer: B) You’re well-traveled and experienced. Example: “With your knowledge and experience, you’re truly a man of the world.”
9,418	What does the idiom “You need to tiptoe around him” mean? A) Be extremely careful in how you approach or deal with him. B) Avoid him completely. C) Be very confident around him. D) Ignore his presence entirely. Answer: A) Be extremely careful in how you approach or deal with him. Example: “He’s in a bad mood; you need to tiptoe around him today.”
9,419	What does the idiom “It was a ruse” mean? A) It was an accident. B) It was a clever plan. C) It was a trick or deception. D) It was a misunderstanding. Answer: C) It was a trick or deception. Example: “The invitation to the party was just a ruse to get him out of the house for the surprise.”
9,420	What does the idiom “Pull your head out of your butt” mean? A) Stop being distracted or clueless. B) Start focusing on others. C) Take things more seriously. D) Calm down and think carefully. Answer: A) Stop being distracted or clueless. Example: “If you want to finish this project, pull your head out of your butt and focus!”
9,421	What does the idiom “Flag is at half-mast” mean? A) A celebration is taking place. B) A period of mourning or respect is being observed. C) A period of joy and happiness is ongoing. D) A military parade is happening. Answer: B) A period of mourning or respect is being observed. Example: “After the tragedy, the flag was flown at half-mast.”
9,422	What does the idiom “He pulled a rabbit out of the hat” mean? A) He performed a surprising or clever trick. B) He failed unexpectedly. C) He panicked under pressure. D) He avoided a difficult situation. Answer: A) He performed a surprising or clever trick. Example: “Just when we thought we’d lose, he pulled a rabbit out of the hat and saved the day.”
9,423	What does the idiom “He has a sorted past” mean? A) He has an organized and disciplined past. B) He has a mysterious and unclear past. C) He has a troubled or questionable past. D) He has a highly successful past. Answer: C) He has a troubled or questionable past. Example: “People avoid talking about him: he has a sorted past.”
9,424	What does the idiom “He’s trying to weasel into my life” mean? A) He’s trying to improve my life. B) He’s trying to avoid me. C) He’s trying to subtly gain access or influence in my life. D) He’s trying to help me in a big way. Answer: C) He’s trying to subtly gain access or influence in my life. Example: “I don’t trust him; he’s always trying to weasel into my life.”
9,425	What does the idiom “House-warming gift” mean? A) A gift given when someone moves into a new home. B) A gift given for a birthday. C) A gift given during a crisis. D) A gift given to fix something broken. Answer: A) A gift given when someone moves into a new home. Example: “We brought a plant as a house-warming gift for their new apartment.”
9,426	What does the idiom “You don’t have a shred of proof” mean? A) You have undeniable evidence. B) You don’t have any evidence at all. C) You have enough proof to make a point. D) You have confusing evidence. Answer: B) You don’t have any evidence at all. Example: “You can’t accuse me of that; you don’t have a shred of proof!”
9,427	What does the idiom “It was his Modus Operandi” mean? A) It was his unique mistake. B) It was his secret strategy. C) It was his usual method or way of doing things (Latin). D) It was his final attempt. Answer: C) It was his usual method or way of doing things (Latin). Example: “Breaking into houses at night was his Modus Operandi.”
9,428	What does the idiom “It struck me like a thunderbolt” mean? A) It confused me completely. B) It surprised me suddenly and intensely. C) It made me feel very tired. D) It caused me to panic. Answer: B) It surprised me suddenly and intensely. Example: “When I realized I had forgotten her birthday, it struck me like a thunderbolt.”
9,429	What does the idiom “You need to butt out” mean? A) You need to stay and help. B) You need to leave immediately. C) You need to stop interfering or mind your own business. D) You need to argue more forcefully. Answer: C) You need to stop interfering or mind your own business. Example: “This is between me and my brother; you need to butt out.”
9,430	What does the idiom “Get off my case” mean? A) Stop helping me. B) Stop criticizing or bothering me. C) Stop avoiding me. D) Stop supporting me. Answer: B) Stop criticizing or bothering me. Example: “I said I’d clean my room later: get off my case already!”
9,431	What does the idiom “Clear my name” mean? A) Support me blindly. B) Change my identity. C) Forget about me. D) Prove my innocence or restore my reputation. Answer: D) Prove my innocence or restore my reputation. Example: “I’m determined to clear my name after being wrongly accused.”
9,432	What does the idiom “He did a piss poor job” mean? A) He did an excellent job. B) He did a terrible job. C) He refused to do the job. D) He finished the job perfectly. Answer: B) He did a terrible job. Example: “The contractor did a piss poor job on the kitchen renovation; it’s falling apart already.”
9,433	What does the idiom “That dog won’t hunt” mean? A) That dog is too lazy to hunt. B) That situation is perfect for success. C) That dog is well-trained. D) That plan, idea, or excuse will not work. Answer: D) That plan, idea, or excuse will not work. Example: “You want to convince the boss with that excuse? That dog won’t hunt.”
9,434	What does the idiom “He thinks that the sun comes up just to hear him crow” mean? A) He believes he controls the weather. B) He enjoys waking up early every morning. C) He thinks he is extremely important or self-centered. D) He has excellent leadership skills. Answer: C) He thinks he is extremely important or self-centered. Example: “He walks around the office like he owns the place; he thinks the sun comes up just to hear him crow.”
9,435	What does the phrase “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” symbolize? A) A literal story about a girl named Lucy. B) A reference to a whimsical, dream-like experience. Reference to LSD. C) A famous painting of the sky and diamonds. D) A children’s fairy tale. Answer: B) A reference to a whimsical, dream-like experience. Reference to LSD. Example: “The painting was so surreal and colorful; it felt like Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds.”
9,436	What does the idiom “A rooster one day and a feather duster the next” mean? A) Rapid change from success to failure. B) A gradual improvement. C) Staying consistently successful. D) Ignoring responsibilities. Answer: A) Rapid change from success to failure. Example: “He was CEO yesterday, but after the scandal, he’s nothing; a rooster one day and a feather duster the next.”
9,437	What does the idiom “She’s got gumption” mean? A) She lacks courage. B) She’s lazy. C) She’s brave and resourceful. D) She’s very shy. Answer: C) She’s brave and resourceful. Example: “She’s got gumption to start her own business.”
9,438	What does the idiom “I reckon” mean? A) I disagree. B) I’m confused. C) I’m certain. D) I suppose or think. Answer: D) I suppose or think. Example: “I reckon we’ll arrive by noon if we leave now.”
9,439	What does the idiom “Heavens to Betsy” mean? A) A calm reaction. B) A formal greeting. C) An expression of surprise or shock. D) An apology. Answer: C) An expression of surprise or shock. Example: “Heavens to Betsy! That storm came out of nowhere.”
9,440	What does the idiom “Well, I declare” mean? A) A formal legal statement. B) An expression of surprise or disbelief. C) A sign of anger. D) An apology. Answer: B) An expression of surprise or disbelief. Example: “Well, I declare! I didn’t expect to see you here.”
9,441	What does the idiom “Pretty as a peach” mean? A) Extremely beautiful or attractive. B) Very shy. C) Very small. D) Very quiet. Answer: A) Extremely beautiful or attractive. Example: “Her little daughter is as pretty as a peach in that dress.”
9,442	What does the idiom “Hotter than blazes” mean? A) Slightly warm. B) Extremely hot. C) Moderately cold. D) Pleasantly warm. Answer: B) Extremely hot. Example: “It’s hotter than blazes out here today!”
9,443	What does the idiom “He is plumb-crazy” mean? A) He is extremely sane. B) He is deeply focused. C) He is very quiet. D) He is completely insane or irrational. Answer: D) He is completely insane or irrational. Example: “He’s plumb-crazy for thinking he can climb that mountain without gear.”
9,444	What does the idiom “Over yonder” mean? A) Very close by. B) Completely out of sight. C) At a far but visible distance. D) Right in front of you. Answer: C) At a far but visible distance. Example: “You’ll see the barn over yonder past the hill.”
9,445	What does the idiom “Happy as a pig in the mud” mean? A) Very uncomfortable. B) Extremely happy and content. C) Feeling annoyed. D) Feeling uncertain. Answer: B) Extremely happy and content. Example: “He was happy as a pig in the mud when he got his promotion.”
9,446	What does the idiom “If I had my druthers” mean? A) If I had a choice or preference. B) If I had enough money. C) If I had more time. D) If I had someone’s help. Answer: A) If I had a choice or preference. Example: “If I had my druthers, I’d spend every summer at the beach.”
9,447	What does the idiom “She could start an argument in an empty house” mean? A) She’s very easygoing. B) She avoids confrontation. C) She’s quick to argue or overly argumentative. D) She likes to stay silent. Answer: C) She’s quick to argue or overly argumentative. Example: “She’s so confrontational, she could start an argument in an empty house.”
9,448	What does the idiom “Worn slap out” mean? A) Feeling refreshed and energetic. B) Feeling overjoyed. C) Feeling mildly tired. D) Feeling completely exhausted or tired. Answer: D) Feeling completely exhausted or tired. Example: “After working all day in the yard, I’m worn slap out.”
9,449	What does the idiom “I’m hankering for an ice cream” mean? A) I’m avoiding ice cream. B) I have a strong craving or desire for ice cream. C) I dislike ice cream. D) I’m tired of eating ice cream. Answer: B) I have a strong craving or desire for ice cream. Example: “It’s such a hot day, I’m hankering for an ice cream.”
9,450	What does the idiom “Doing business with the devil” mean? A) Working with someone trustworthy. B) Avoiding a risky deal. C) Making a deal with someone untrustworthy or morally questionable. D) Saving someone from danger. Answer: C) Making a deal with someone untrustworthy or morally questionable. Example: “Partnering with that corrupt company feels like doing business with the devil.”
9,451	What does the idiom “He short-changed me” mean? A) He gave me extra change. B) He asked for more money. C) He forgot to give me any money. D) He tricked me out of what I deserved or gave me less than owed. Answer: D) He tricked me out of what I deserved or gave me less than owed. Example: “The cashier short-changed me by $5 at the grocery store.”
9,452	What does the idiom “Clear your mind” mean? A) To focus on one thought. B) To write down all your thoughts. C) To stop thinking about unnecessary things and relax mentally. D) To get angry. Answer: C) To stop thinking about unnecessary things and relax mentally. Example: “Take a few minutes to meditate and clear your mind before the meeting.”
9,453	What does the idiom “Blow away the cobwebs” mean? A) To clean a dusty area. B) To refresh your mind or feel revitalized. C) To remove an obstacle. D) To forget something important. Answer: B) To refresh your mind or feel revitalized. Example: “I went for a long walk this morning to blow away the cobwebs.”
9,454	What does the idiom “Black edge” in regards to business mean? A) Illegal or unethical advantage in trading using confidential information. B) A guaranteed legal success. C) A risky legal bet. D) A public trading success. Answer: A) Illegal or unethical advantage in trading using confidential information. Example: “He was arrested for engaging in black edge trading.”
9,455	What does the idiom “The police will crack down” mean? A) The police will become less strict. B) The police will strictly enforce rules or laws. C) The police will ignore minor offenses. D) The police will make compromises. Answer: B) The police will strictly enforce rules or laws. Example: “The police will crack down on illegal street racing.”
9,456	What does the idiom “YOLO” mean? A) You Only Look Once. B) Your Opportunity Lasts Overnight. C) You Only Live Once. D) Your Options Limit Others. Answer: C) You Only Live Once. Example: “I’m booking that trip to Europe; YOLO!”
9,457	What does the idiom “He rose up through the ranks” mean? A) He fell from his position. B) He started at the top. C) He avoided responsibility. D) He achieved success through hard work and promotion. Answer: D) He achieved success through hard work and promotion. Example: “He rose up through the ranks to become the CEO.”
9,458	What does the idiom “It would be like trying to shoot down a bullet with a bullet” mean? A) An extremely difficult or nearly impossible task. B) A very easy task. C) A repetitive task. D) An unimportant task. Answer: A) An extremely difficult or nearly impossible task. Example: “Finding that one document is like trying to shoot down a bullet with a bullet.”
9,459	What does the idiom “Mother tongue” mean? A) The language spoken by your mother. B) Your native or first language. C) A secret code language. D) A formal style of speaking. Answer: B) Your native or first language. Example: “English is my mother tongue, but I also speak Spanish fluently.”
9,460	What does the idiom “Crap or get off the toilet” mean? A) Decide or act instead of hesitating. B) Relax and avoid stress. C) Abandon a difficult task. D) Take your time with something important. Answer: A) Decide or act instead of hesitating. Example: “You’ve been debating this for weeks; crap or get off the toilet!”
9,461	What does the idiom “Big girl’s blouse” mean? A) Someone acting overly confident. B) Someone being very loud. C) Someone who is very stylish. D) Someone behaving timidly or in a cowardly way. Answer: D) Someone behaving timidly or in a cowardly way. Example: “Stop being such a big girl’s blouse and just ask her out!”
9,462	What does the abbreviation “BYOB” mean? A) Bring Your Own Bag. B) Bring Your Own Beer/Bottle. C) Buy Your Own Burger. D) Bring Your Own Book. Answer: B) Bring Your Own Beer/Bottle. Example: “The party is BYOB, so don’t forget to bring your drinks.”
9,463	What does the idiom “Unbeknownst to me” mean? A) Without my knowledge. B) With my full awareness. C) With my approval. D) Without my concern. Answer: A) Without my knowledge. Example: “Unbeknownst to me, they planned a surprise party.”
9,464	What does the idiom “You need to clear away the cobwebs” mean? A) You need to clean the house. B) You need to clear your mind or refresh your thoughts. C) You need to organize your documents. D) You need to start a new project. Answer: B) You need to clear your mind or refresh your thoughts. Example: “After hours of studying, I need to clear away the cobwebs with a walk.”
9,465	What does the idiom “Short-change artist” mean? A) Someone who gives extra money. B) Someone who avoids transactions. C) Someone who tricks others by giving less money than owed. D) Someone who invests wisely. Answer: C) Someone who tricks others by giving less money than owed. Example: “The cashier turned out to be a short-change artist, always keeping a little extra for himself.”
9,466	What does the idiom “I’ve been played” mean? A) I’ve been entertained. B) I’ve been deceived or tricked. C) I’ve been rewarded. D) I’ve been ignored. Answer: B) I’ve been deceived or tricked. Example: “I trusted his promises, but I’ve been played.”
9,467	What does the idiom “He bummed a ride” mean? A) He missed his ride. B) He offered someone a ride. C) He asked for and received a free ride. D) He refused a ride. Answer: C) He asked for and received a free ride. Example: “He didn’t have his car, so he bummed a ride from his friend.”
9,468	What does the idiom “You played me like a piano” mean? A) You entertained me thoroughly. B) You manipulated or tricked me easily. C) You treated me kindly. D) You ignored me completely. Answer: B) You manipulated or tricked me easily. Example: “I trusted you, but you played me like a piano.”
9,469	What does the idiom “I’m out of cards to play” mean? A) I’ve run out of resources or options. B) I’ve won the game. C) I’ve started a new strategy. D) I’ve decided to quit early. Answer: A) I’ve run out of resources or options. Example: “I’ve tried everything to negotiate, but I’m out of cards to play.”
9,470	What does the idiom “It blew up in our face” mean? A) Something succeeded spectacularly. B) Something was completed successfully. C) Something disappeared suddenly. D) Something backfired or failed disastrously. Answer: D) Something backfired or failed disastrously. Example: “We tried to fix the issue quickly, but it blew up in our face.”
9,471	What does the idiom “He has been very tight-lipped” mean? A) He has been very talkative. B) He has been silent or unwilling to share information. C) He has been overly cheerful. D) He has been easily angered. Answer: B) He has been silent or unwilling to share information. Example: “He’s been very tight-lipped about the company’s new project.”
9,472	What does the idiom “He was low balling me” mean? A) He was offering me a very high price. B) He was being overly generous. C) He was offering me a deliberately low price or deal. D) He was avoiding negotiation. Answer: C) He was offering me a deliberately low price or deal. Example: “When I tried to sell my car, he was low balling me with his offer.”
9,473	What does the idiom “Do you got a moment?” mean? A) Do you want to take a break? B) Do you have a watch? C) Are you about to leave? D) Do you have some time to talk or help? Answer: D) Do you have some time to talk or help? Example: “Hey, do you got a moment? I need to ask you something.”
9,474	What does the idiom “You need to ice him” mean? A) To give someone cold drinks. B) To stop or eliminate someone (metaphorically or literally). C) To invite someone for a party. D) To offer someone forgiveness. Answer: B) To stop or eliminate someone (metaphorically or literally). Example: “The boss said we need to ice him before he causes more trouble.”
9,475	What does the idiom “DIY” stand for? A) Do It Yourself. B) Draft It Yesterday. C) Draw It Yellow. D) Deliver It Yourself. Answer: A) Do It Yourself. Example: “I bought supplies for a DIY project to build my own bookshelf.”
9,476	What does the idiom “I can read lips” mean? A) You can understand spoken words by observing lip movements. B) You can predict someone’s behavior. C) You are a good listener. D) You can communicate through gestures. Answer: A) You can understand spoken words by observing lip movements. Example: “Even from across the room, I could read lips and know what they were discussing.”
9,477	What does the idiom “Detectives are canvassing the neighborhood” mean? A) They are cleaning the neighborhood. B) They are conducting a thorough search or investigation. C) They are avoiding certain areas. D) They are celebrating an event. Answer: B) They are conducting a thorough search or investigation. Example: “Detectives are canvassing the neighborhood for any witnesses to the crime.”
9,478	What does the idiom “A sunset provision” mean? A) A law or policy with a set expiration date. B) A bonus feature in a contract. C) A way to extend an agreement indefinitely. D) A financial safeguard. Answer: A) A law or policy with a set expiration date. Example: “The tax break included a sunset provision and will expire next year.”
9,479	What does the idiom “I’m betting against him” mean? A) You expect him to win. B) You are offering him advice. C) You want to help him. D) You expect him to fail. Answer: D) You expect him to fail. Example: “He’s never prepared, so I’m betting against him in this competition.”
9,480	What does the idiom “Skull and crossbones” mean? A) A sign of wealth and power. B) A symbol representing danger, poison, or death. C) A logo for a sports team. D) A sign of good luck. Answer: B) A symbol representing danger, poison, or death. Example: “The bottle had a skull and crossbones symbol, warning us it was toxic.”
9,481	What does the idiom “A sunset clause” mean? A) A deadline for completing a project. B) A poetic expression in a story. C) A clause in a contract that sets an expiration date for certain provisions. D) A financial agreement. Answer: C) A clause in a contract that sets an expiration date for certain provisions. Example: “The agreement includes a sunset clause, so it will expire after five years.”
9,482	What does the idiom “Be my guest” mean? A) A literal invitation to someone’s house. B) Permission to do something. C) A warning to be careful. D) A rejection of an offer. Answer: B) Permission to do something. Example: “If you want to borrow my car, be my guest.”
9,483	What does the idiom “Within reason” mean? A) Within logical or fair limits. B) Completely impossible. C) Outside of acceptable boundaries. D) Without any restrictions. Answer: A) Within logical or fair limits. Example: “You can ask for anything within reason at this restaurant.”
9,484	What does the idiom “A shooting star” mean? A) Someone who has long-lasting success. B) Someone who is reliable and consistent. C) Someone who is very humble. D) Someone who rises quickly to fame or success but fades quickly. Answer: D) Someone who rises quickly to fame or success but fades quickly. Example: “He was a shooting star in Hollywood; famous for a brief moment before disappearing.”
9,485	What does the idiom “You’re gambling with your life” mean? A) You’re making very careful decisions. B) You’re taking life-threatening risks. C) You’re avoiding responsibility. D) You’re preparing for something serious. Answer: B) You’re taking life-threatening risks. Example: “Driving without a seatbelt on these dangerous roads; you’re gambling with your life.”
9,486	What does the idiom “Acts like there’s no tomorrow” mean? A) To act cautiously and thoughtfully. B) To delay making decisions. C) To live or act recklessly, as if consequences don’t matter. D) To plan far ahead into the future. Answer: C) To live or act recklessly, as if consequences don’t matter. Example: “He spent his entire paycheck in one day, acting like there’s no tomorrow.”
9,487	What does the idiom “He’s playing with his life” mean? A) He’s enjoying his life to the fullest. B) He’s planning a big surprise. C) He’s being overly cautious. D) He’s taking unnecessary and dangerous risks. Answer: D) He’s taking unnecessary and dangerous risks. Example: “Racing down that icy road without a seatbelt; he’s playing with his life.”
9,488	What does the abbreviation “DOB” stand for? A) Date of Birth. B) Date of Bargain. C) Document of Balance. D) Declaration of Benefits. Answer: A) Date of Birth. Example: “The officer asked for his ID and checked his DOB.”
9,489	What does the idiom “Against all odds” mean? A) With overwhelming chances of success. B) Despite very low chances of success. C) Without taking any risks. D) With absolute certainty. Answer: B) Despite very low chances of success. Example: “They won the championship against all odds.”
9,490	What does the idiom “10 Second Bob” mean? A) Someone who runs very fast. B) Someone who is always late. C) Someone who is extremely forgetful or has a short attention span. D) Someone who finishes tasks quickly. Answer: C) Someone who is extremely forgetful or has a short attention span. Example: “You just told him the plan, and he’s already forgotten it. He’s a real 10 Second Bob.”
9,491	What does the idiom “Quit being an ass” mean? A) Stop being polite. B) Stop being generous. C) Stop being overly cautious. D) Stop being stubborn or rude. Answer: D) Stop being stubborn or rude. Example: “We’re trying to have a productive conversation; quit being an ass.”
9,492	What does the idiom “Stop acting like a jackass” mean? A) Stop being serious. B) Stop avoiding responsibilities. C) Stop behaving foolishly or rudely. D) Stop acting overly kind. Answer: C) Stop behaving foolishly or rudely. Example: “You’re embarrassing everyone; stop acting like a jackass!”
9,493	What does the idiom “Deep down in my heart” mean? A) Superficially believing something. B) Truly and sincerely believe in something. C) Completely ignoring something. D) Slightly doubting something. Answer: B) Truly and sincerely believe in something. Example: “Deep down in my heart, I know he means well.”
9,494	What does the idiom “Peace of mind” mean? A) Feeling calm and free from worry. B) Feeling anxious and unsettled. C) Feeling excited about a challenge. D) Feeling lost and confused. Answer: A) Feeling calm and free from worry. Example: “Buying insurance gives me peace of mind when traveling.”
9,495	What does the idiom “He was flying the Jolly Roger” mean? A) He was behaving honestly. B) He was acting like a pirate or breaking the rules. C) He was helping others. D) He was hiding his true intentions. Answer: B) He was acting like a pirate or breaking the rules. Example: “He hacked into the system; he was flying the Jolly Roger for sure.”
9,496	What does the idiom “I’m worth more dead than alive” mean? A) Someone believes their life insurance or assets are more valuable than their life. B) Someone feels very important. C) Someone feels invincible. D) Someone feels underappreciated. Answer: A) Someone believes their life insurance or assets are more valuable than their life. Example: “With this insurance policy, I’m worth more dead than alive.”
9,497	What does the idiom “I’m not willing to take that gamble” mean? A) You’re excited to take a risk. B) You’re confident about the outcome. C) You have nothing to lose. D) You’re hesitant to take a significant risk. Answer: D) You’re hesitant to take a significant risk. Example: “Investing in that stock is too risky; I’m not willing to take that gamble.”
9,498	What does the idiom “CAPTCHA” refer to? A) A security measure to verify a human user. B) A type of financial transaction. C) A sports competition. D) A storytelling technique. Answer: A) A security measure to verify a human user. Example: “Before accessing the form, you’ll need to complete the CAPTCHA verification.”
9,499	What does the idiom “He pissed away his chance” mean? A) He made the most of his opportunity. B) He wasted his opportunity carelessly. C) He saved his resources wisely. D) He ignored an opportunity. Answer: B) He wasted his opportunity carelessly. Example: “He had the job lined up, but he pissed away his chance by skipping the interview.”
9,500	What does the idiom “Treasure at the end of the rainbow” mean? A) A reward that is easy to obtain. B) A hidden surprise. C) A mythical or unattainable goal. D) A guaranteed success. Answer: C) A mythical or unattainable goal. Example: “Chasing that promotion feels like searching for treasure at the end of the rainbow.”
9,501	What does the idiom “A falling star” mean? A) Someone who is rising to fame. B) Someone who is starting fresh. C) Someone who is staying consistent. D) Someone who is declining from a position of success. Answer: D) Someone who is declining from a position of success. Example: “Once a pop icon, he’s now a falling star after multiple scandals.”
9,502	What does the idiom “I hope you rot in hell” mean? A) A friendly farewell. B) A sarcastic compliment. C) A strong expression of anger or hatred towards someone. D) A casual joke. Answer: C) A strong expression of anger or hatred towards someone. Example: “After the betrayal, she yelled, ‘I hope you rot in hell!’”
9,503	What does the idiom “He gambled away his child’s college fund” mean? A) He invested the money wisely. B) He spent important money carelessly on risky ventures. C) He saved the money securely. D) He refused to spend the money at all. Answer: B) He spent important money carelessly on risky ventures. Example: “He gambled away his child’s college fund at the casino last year.”
9,504	What does the idiom “They do not have our best interest at heart” mean? A) They are genuinely trying to help. B) They are indifferent to our needs. C) They are acting selfishly or dishonestly. D) They are overly cautious. Answer: C) They are acting selfishly or dishonestly. Example: “That company is raising prices again; they do not have our best interest at heart.”
9,505	What does the idiom “It serves you right” mean? A) Expressing sympathy for someone. B) Suggesting someone deserved a negative outcome. C) Offering help to someone. D) Ignoring someone’s situation. Answer: B) Suggesting someone deserved a negative outcome. Example: “You ignored all the warnings, so honestly, it serves you right.”
9,506	What does the idiom “BOGO” mean? A) Buy one, get one free. B) Bring one, give one. C) Borrow one, gain one. D) Buy one, grow one. Answer: A) Buy one, get one free. Example: “The store had a BOGO sale on shoes, so I got two pairs for the price of one.”
9,507	What does the idiom “A rough landing” mean? A) A very smooth end to a situation. B) An early start. C) A surprising victory. D) A chaotic or difficult conclusion to something. Answer: D) A chaotic or difficult conclusion to something. Example: “The project had a rough landing, but at least we finished it on time.”
9,508	What does the idiom “Graceful landing” mean? A) A physically smooth airplane landing. B) A moment of embarrassment. C) A situation that ends well despite difficulties. D) A sudden and unexpected failure. Answer: C) A situation that ends well despite difficulties. Example: “Despite the shaky start to the presentation, she managed a graceful landing by the end.”
9,509	What does the idiom “My girlfriend says she’s late” mean? A) She missed an important appointment. B) She might be pregnant. C) She is delayed due to traffic. D) She forgot an important event. Answer: B) She might be pregnant. Example: “When my girlfriend said she’s late, I realized we might be expecting a baby.”
9,510	What does the idiom “I’ll render him relevant” mean? A) To ignore someone completely. B) To remove someone from a position of power. C) To make someone important or significant in a situation. D) To avoid giving someone credit. Answer: C) To make someone important or significant in a situation. Example: “He’s been overlooked in this discussion, but don’t worry, I’ll render him relevant in the next meeting.”
9,511	What does the idiom “He might be walking through a minefield. I wouldn’t follow him” mean? A) He’s in a safe situation. B) He’s in a very risky or dangerous situation. C) He’s making progress. D) He’s leading the way confidently. Answer: B) He’s in a very risky or dangerous situation. Example: “He’s making risky decisions; I wouldn’t follow him through that minefield.”
9,512	What does the idiom “An opportunity presented itself” mean? A) A chance or opening unexpectedly became available. B) A difficult challenge appeared. C) An opportunity was lost. D) An event was canceled. Answer: A) A chance or opening unexpectedly became available. Example: “I wasn’t planning to switch jobs, but an opportunity presented itself.”
9,513	What does the idiom “In my line of work” mean? A) In my personal life. B) In my specific profession or field. C) In my family tradition. D) In my group of friends. Answer: B) In my specific profession or field. Example: “In my line of work, you see a lot of strange things.”
9,514	What does the idiom “I know how this looks” mean? A) I’m aware this situation seems suspicious or questionable. B) I’m confident everything looks perfect. C) I have no clue what’s happening. D) I don’t care about appearances. Answer: A) I’m aware this situation seems suspicious or questionable. Example: “Look, I know how this looks, but I can explain everything.”
9,515	What does the idiom “If you don’t choose your next choice wisely, it will be chosen for you” mean? A) Decide carefully, or someone else will make it for you. B) Avoid making any choices. C) Let others decide for you. D) Rush to a decision quickly. Answer: A) Decide carefully, or someone else will make it for you. Example: “You need to decide soon; if you don’t choose your next choice wisely, it will be chosen for you.”
9,516	What does the idiom “The most suspected spy is the person you wouldn’t suspect” mean? A) Trust everyone equally. B) Suspect everyone equally. C) Avoid being suspicious of others. D) Sometimes the least obvious person is the one responsible. Answer: D) Sometimes the least obvious person is the one responsible. Example: “In mystery novels, the most suspected spy is often the one you wouldn’t suspect.”
9,517	What does the idiom “I’m calling to check in” mean? A) To confirm a hotel reservation. B) To end a conversation abruptly. C) To see how someone is doing or ask for an update. D) To cancel an appointment. Answer: C) To see how someone is doing or ask for an update. Example: “Hey, I’m calling to check in; how’s the project going?”
9,518	What does the idiom “He’s running point” mean? A) He’s avoiding responsibility. B) He’s taking the lead on a project or mission. C) He’s sitting on the sidelines. D) He’s refusing to participate. Answer: B) He’s taking the lead on a project or mission. Example: “He’s running point on the negotiations with the client.”
9,519	What does the idiom “You need to pull your weight” mean? A) To contribute equally to a group effort. B) To ignore your responsibilities. C) To avoid confrontation. D) To delegate your tasks. Answer: A) To contribute equally to a group effort. Example: “Everyone is working hard; you need to pull your weight too.”
9,520	What does the idiom “Don’t count me out, I might have a few moves left” mean? A) I have no energy left. B) I’ve given up completely. C) I’m still capable of making an impact. D) I’m not interested in participating. Answer: C) I’m still capable of making an impact. Example: “I know things look bad, but don’t count me out; I might have a few moves left.”
9,521	What does the idiom “Turning state’s evidence” mean? A) Refusing to cooperate with authorities. B) Providing testimony or evidence against former allies to avoid punishment. C) Supporting your team in a competition. D) Hiding important information. Answer: B) Providing testimony or evidence against former allies to avoid punishment. Example: “To get a lighter sentence, he’s turning state’s evidence.”
9,522	What does the idiom “He defines grace under pressure” mean? A) He panics easily in stressful situations. B) He avoids taking responsibility in stressful moments. C) He remains calm and composed in difficult circumstances. D) He becomes angry under stress. Answer: C) He remains calm and composed in difficult circumstances. Example: “Even during the crisis, he defines grace under pressure.”
9,523	What does the idiom “Zero Tolerance Policy” mean? A) A very flexible set of rules. B) Strict enforcement of rules without exceptions. C) A relaxed attitude towards rules. D) A temporary set of rules. Answer: B) Strict enforcement of rules without exceptions. Example: “Our school has a zero-tolerance policy for bullying.”
9,524	What does the idiom “Your mileage may vary” mean? A) You will definitely have the same experience. B) Everyone will face identical outcomes. C) Results or experiences may differ from person to person. D) There is no variation in the outcome. Answer: C) Results or experiences may differ from person to person. Example: “This product worked well for me, but your mileage may vary.”
9,525	What does the idiom “Young fogey” mean? A) A young person with modern views. B) A young person who loves adventure. C) A young person who avoids responsibility. D) A young person with old-fashioned attitudes or tastes. Answer: D) A young person with old-fashioned attitudes or tastes. Example: “He’s only 25, but he dresses and talks like someone twice his age; a real young fogey.”
9,526	What does the idiom “You’re not in Kansas anymore” mean? A) You are in a familiar situation. B) You are back home. C) You are in an unfamiliar or strange environment. D) You are surrounded by friends. Answer: C) You are in an unfamiliar or strange environment. Example: “When I arrived in the bustling city, I realized I wasn’t in Kansas anymore.”
9,527	What does the idiom “You’re going to wake the dead” mean? A) You are being extremely quiet. B) You are making an excessive amount of noise. C) You are doing something very gently. D) You are speaking too softly. Answer: B) You are making an excessive amount of noise. Example: “Turn down the music! You’re going to wake the dead.”
9,528	What does the idiom “You zigged when you should’ve zagged” mean? A) You made a correct decision. B) You avoided a difficult situation. C) You made a mistake or went the wrong way. D) You followed instructions perfectly. Answer: C) You made a mistake or went the wrong way. Example: “You zigged when you should’ve zagged, and now we’re stuck in traffic.”
9,529	What does the idiom “You will rue the day” mean? A) You will celebrate this day. B) You will regret this day deeply. C) You will forget this day entirely. D) You will be rewarded for this day. Answer: B) You will regret this day deeply. Example: “If you betray me, you will rue the day you made that choice.”
9,530	What does the idiom “You will need to pull an all-nighter” mean? A) To work or study all night to meet a deadline. B) To go out partying all night. C) To avoid sleeping for fun. D) To wake up early in the morning. Answer: A) To work or study all night to meet a deadline. Example: “I have so much to do; I’ll need to pull an all-nighter.”
9,531	What does the idiom “You need to roll with the punches” mean? A) To stay calm and adjust to difficult situations. B) To fight back aggressively. C) To refuse to compromise. D) To quit under pressure. Answer: A) To stay calm and adjust to difficult situations. Example: “Things might not go as planned, but you need to roll with the punches.”
9,532	What does the idiom “You set the pace” mean? A) To follow someone else’s lead. B) To determine the speed or standard of progress. C) To avoid responsibility. D) To delay progress. Answer: B) To determine the speed or standard of progress. Example: “As the team leader, you set the pace for everyone else.”
9,533	What does the idiom “You need to put some legs on it” mean? A) To keep an idea to yourself. B) To give an idea momentum and make it successful. C) To abandon an idea. D) To slow down the process. Answer: B) To give an idea momentum and make it successful. Example: “Your business plan looks solid; you need to put some legs on it.”
9,534	What does the idiom “You need to play all your cards” mean? A) To hold back important information. B) To use all your resources or strategies. C) To avoid making any moves. D) To win at all costs. Answer: B) To use all your resources or strategies. Example: “This is your final chance; you need to play all your cards.”
9,535	What does the idiom “Pick up your marbles and go home” mean? A) To leave a situation angry or in frustration. B) To finish a task efficiently. C) To negotiate better terms. D) To celebrate success. Answer: A) To leave a situation angry or in frustration. Example: “After losing the argument, he decided to pick up his marbles and go home.”
9,536	What does the idiom “You need to open your eyes” mean? A) To ignore reality. B) To close off from others. C) To focus on small details. D) To become aware of what’s really happening. Answer: D) To become aware of what’s really happening. Example: “You’re being lied to; you need to open your eyes.”
9,537	What does the idiom “You need to loosen your purse strings” mean? A) To spend money more freely. B) To save money. C) To borrow money. D) To cancel expenses. Answer: A) To spend money more freely. Example: “If we want a better vacation, you need to loosen your purse strings.”
9,538	What does the idiom “You need to make a move” mean? A) To wait for a better opportunity. B) To give up entirely. C) To take action or make a decision. D) To criticize someone. Answer: C) To take action or make a decision. Example: “The clock is ticking; you need to make a move now.”
9,539	What does the idiom “You need to loosen his apron strings” mean? A) To give someone more independence. B) To tighten control over someone. C) To reward someone generously. D) To criticize someone’s choices. Answer: A) To give someone more independence. Example: “Your son is an adult now; you need to loosen his apron strings.”
9,540	What does the idiom “You need to keep tabs on him” mean? A) To ignore someone’s activities. B) To monitor or keep track of someone. C) To let someone have their freedom. D) To ask someone for money. Answer: B) To monitor or keep track of someone. Example: “He’s been acting suspicious lately; you need to keep tabs on him.”
9,541	What does the idiom “You need to keep it together” mean? A) To remain calm and in control. B) To get angry and frustrated. C) To avoid participating. D) To start over from scratch. Answer: A) To remain calm and in control. Example: “Even though the presentation went wrong, you need to keep it together.”
9,542	What does the idiom “You need to have your wits about you” mean? A) To remain calm and collected. B) To be alert and ready to act. C) To ignore danger. D) To act carelessly. Answer: B) To be alert and ready to act. Example: “This negotiation will be tricky; you need to have your wits about you.”
9,543	What does the idiom “You need to give him a laundry list” mean? A) To give someone an excuse. B) To criticize someone’s choices. C) To give someone a long list of tasks or problems. D) To ask for forgiveness. Answer: C) To give someone a long list of tasks or problems. Example: “Before we start, you need to give him a laundry list of what needs fixing.”
9,544	What does the idiom “You need to drive a stake through his heart” mean? A) You need to forgive him. B) You need to permanently stop or defeat him. C) You need to make peace with him. D) You need to ignore him. Answer: B) You need to permanently stop or defeat him. Example: “If we want to end this rivalry, we need to drive a stake through his heart.”
9,545	What does the idiom “You might want to jump on the bandwagon” mean? A) To avoid doing what everyone else is doing. B) To take a break from something. C) To join others in doing something popular or trendy. D) To criticize someone else’s decision. Answer: C) To join others in doing something popular or trendy. Example: “Electric cars are the future; you might want to jump on the bandwagon.”
9,546	What does the idiom “You know the score” mean? A) You are confused about the situation. B) You are ignoring the facts. C) You are trying to figure things out. D) You understand the situation well. Answer: D) You understand the situation well. Example: “You’ve been in this business long enough; you know the score.”
9,547	What does the idiom “You did not read the fine print” mean? A) You overlooked important details. B) You understood everything perfectly. C) You were very careful. D) You found an error. Answer: A) You overlooked important details. Example: “You didn’t realize the contract was non-refundable because you didn’t read the fine print.”
9,548	What does the idiom “You could hear a pin drop” mean? A) The room was extremely noisy. B) The room was completely silent. C) People were arguing loudly. D) People were laughing uncontrollably. Answer: B) The room was completely silent. Example: “When she announced the bad news, you could hear a pin drop.”
9,549	What does the idiom “You can write your own ticket” mean? A) You have complete freedom to make your own choices. B) You must follow strict rules. C) You are about to lose an opportunity. D) You need approval before proceeding. Answer: A) You have complete freedom to make your own choices. Example: “With your skills, you can write your own ticket in this industry.”
9,550	What does the idiom “You better find your voice” mean? A) You need to start speaking up or standing up for yourself. B) You need to start singing. C) You need to stay quiet. D) You need to apologize. Answer: A) You need to start speaking up or standing up for yourself. Example: “In the meeting, you better find your voice and share your ideas.”
9,551	What does the idiom “You are playing with fire” mean? A) You are being extremely cautious. B) You are taking a dangerous or reckless risk. C) You are avoiding confrontation. D) You are planning something carefully. Answer: B) You are taking a dangerous or reckless risk. Example: “Investing all your money in that stock is playing with fire.”
9,552	What does the idiom “You are out of your depth” mean? A) You are in a situation you cannot handle. B) You are very confident. C) You are completely relaxed. D) You are in your comfort zone. Answer: A) You are in a situation you cannot handle. Example: “I felt out of my depth in the advanced math class.”
9,553	What does the idiom “Witching hour” mean? A) The hour when witches cast spells. B) A time late at night when strange or supernatural things are believed to happen. C) Early morning hours. D) A happy hour at a bar. Answer: B) A time late at night when strange or supernatural things are believed to happen. Example: “It’s nearly midnight; the witching hour is upon us.”
9,554	What does the idiom “Wise head on young shoulders” mean? A) Someone who is immature for their age. B) Someone who avoids responsibility. C) Someone who is easily distracted. D) Someone who is wise beyond their years. Answer: D) Someone who is wise beyond their years. Example: “For a teenager, she has a wise head on young shoulders.”
9,555	What does the idiom “Winner takes all” mean? A) A situation where everyone shares equally. B) A game without any rewards. C) A situation where one person or group wins everything while others get nothing. D) A collaborative victory. Answer: C) A situation where one person or group wins everything while others get nothing. Example: “In this competition, it’s winner takes all; no second prizes.”
9,556	What does the idiom “Firing line” mean? A) The first row in a theater. B) A position where someone is subject to criticism or intense scrutiny. C) The end of an argument. D) A line of victory. Answer: B) A position where someone is subject to criticism or intense scrutiny. Example: “During the press conference, the CEO was on the firing line.”
9,557	What does the idiom “Wiggle room” mean? A) Space to dance freely. B) A restricted situation. C) Flexibility or leeway in a plan or decision. D) A sense of accomplishment. Answer: C) Flexibility or leeway in a plan or decision. Example: “The budget is tight, but we still have a little wiggle room.”
9,558	What does the idiom “When your number comes up” mean? A) When you win the lottery. B) When it’s your turn for something, especially something serious or final like death. C) When you are promoted at work. D) When you lose something valuable. Answer: B) When it’s your turn for something, especially something serious or final like death. Example: “We all have to face it when our number comes up.”
9,559	What does the idiom “When they go low, we go high” mean? A) To respond to negativity with positivity and integrity. B) To avoid taking responsibility. C) To celebrate someone’s loss. D) To criticize someone harshly. Answer: A) To respond to negativity with positivity and integrity. Example: “No matter how rude they are, remember: when they go low, we go high.”
9,560	What does the idiom “Whatever helps you sleep at night” mean? A) A sarcastic way to imply that someone is justifying their actions, even if those actions are morally questionable. B) Advice for better sleep hygiene. C) A way to suggest someone relax. D) A compliment on someone’s choices. Answer: A) A sarcastic way to imply that someone is justifying their actions, even if those actions are morally questionable. Example: “You keep telling yourself you’re right; whatever helps you sleep at night.”
9,561	What does the idiom “What’s cooking?” mean? A) Asking about someone’s meal. B) Asking someone what they are doing or what is happening. C) Complimenting someone’s cooking skills. D) Asking for permission to cook. Answer: B) Asking someone what they are doing or what is happening. Example: “Hey, you look busy; what’s cooking?”
9,562	What does the idiom “Wet firecracker” mean? A) Something extremely exciting. B) Something explosive and dangerous. C) Something that fails to meet expectations or is disappointing. D) Something very loud. Answer: C) Something that fails to meet expectations or is disappointing. Example: “The party was supposed to be fun, but it turned out to be a wet firecracker.”
9,563	What does the idiom “Went the way of the Dodo bird” mean? A) To become extremely popular. B) To hide from the public eye. C) To make a big comeback. D) To become extinct or obsolete. Answer: D) To become extinct or obsolete. Example: “DVD players have gone the way of the Dodo bird with the rise of streaming services.”
9,564	What does the idiom “We need to whip them in shape” mean? A) To give someone physical punishment. B) To celebrate a success. C) To improve or discipline someone or something to achieve efficiency. D) To allow someone to relax. Answer: C) To improve or discipline someone or something to achieve efficiency. Example: “The team is disorganized, and we need to whip them in shape before the tournament.”
9,565	What does the idiom “We need to keep him on his toes” mean? A) We need to keep him relaxed. B) We need to keep him alert and ready for action. C) We need to avoid him. D) We need to let him rest. Answer: B) We need to keep him alert and ready for action. Example: “The new manager needs constant updates to keep him on his toes.”
9,566	What does the idiom “We need a headwind” mean? A) We need something to slow us down. B) We need a challenge to improve. C) We need strong support or motivation. D) We need to avoid obstacles. Answer: C) We need strong support or motivation. Example: “This project is stalling; we need a headwind to push us forward.”
9,567	What does the idiom “We are on the same wavelength” mean? A) We are thinking or feeling in a similar way. B) We are completely different. C) We are arguing frequently. D) We are avoiding each other. Answer: A) We are thinking or feeling in a similar way. Example: “It’s easy working with her because we are on the same wavelength.”
9,568	What does the idiom “We are at cross-purpose” mean? A) We are working together efficiently. B) We are working against each other unintentionally. C) We are avoiding each other. D) We are perfectly aligned. Answer: B) We are working against each other unintentionally. Example: “We were both trying to help, but we were at cross-purposes.”
9,569	What does the idiom “We had a ball” mean? A) We had a terrible time. B) We were very confused. C) We had a great and enjoyable time. D) We avoided everyone. Answer: C) We had a great and enjoyable time. Example: “The party was fantastic; we had a ball!”
9,570	What does the idiom “We all sat there scratching our heads after hearing that” mean? A) We all completely understood it. B) We were all confused or puzzled. C) We were all entertained. D) We were all angry. Answer: B) We were all confused or puzzled. Example: “When he explained the plan, we all sat there scratching our heads.”
9,571	What does the idiom “Watching paint dry” mean? A) Something extremely boring. B) Something extremely exciting. C) Something very dangerous. D) Something very confusing. Answer: A) Something extremely boring. Example: “That lecture was like watching paint dry.”
9,572	What does the idiom “Walk the plank” mean? A) To avoid confrontation. B) To take control of a situation. C) To win an argument. D) To face punishment or consequences. Answer: D) To face punishment or consequences. Example: “After the financial scandal, the CEO had to walk the plank.”
9,573	What does the idiom “Up the Yin-Yang” mean? A) In a very orderly way. B) In great excess or abundance. C) In a chaotic manner. D) In complete balance. Answer: B) In great excess or abundance. Example: “He’s got gadgets up the yin-yang in his new car.”
9,574	What does the idiom “Up the river without a paddle” mean? A) In a very challenging or hopeless situation. B) Traveling calmly and peacefully. C) Completely in control of a situation. D) Ignoring problems. Answer: A) In a very challenging or hopeless situation. Example: “Without funding, the project is up the river without a paddle.”
9,575	What does the idiom “Unto the ages of ages” mean? A) For a short time. B) Forever or for eternity. C) In ancient times. D) Very soon. Answer: B) Forever or for eternity. Example: “The legacy of their hero will be remembered unto the ages of ages.”
9,576	What does the idiom “Unquenchable quest for life” mean? A) A temporary interest in living fully. B) A lack of enthusiasm for life. C) A strong and unstoppable desire to experience life. D) A very cautious approach to life. Answer: C) A strong and unstoppable desire to experience life. Example: “Despite her illness, she maintained an unquenchable quest for life.”
9,577	What does the idiom “Under its own steam” mean? A) With external help or support. B) Without success. C) With great difficulty. D) With its own power or effort. Answer: D) With its own power or effort. Example: “The engine was able to run under its own steam after repairs.”
9,578	What does the idiom “Two a penny” mean? A) Very rare and valuable. B) Very expensive. C) Extremely common and inexpensive. D) Highly sought after. Answer: C) Extremely common and inexpensive. Example: “Opinions like his are two a penny these days.”
9,579	What does the idiom “Twinkle in your father’s eye” mean? A) A moment of happiness. B) Referring to a time before the person was born. C) A reminder of a special occasion. D) A difficult memory. Answer: B) Referring to a time before the person was born. Example: “You weren’t even a twinkle in your father’s eye when that movie came out.”
9,580	What does the idiom “Turn a blind eye” mean? A) To refuse to acknowledge something wrong or problematic. B) To focus intently on a problem. C) To punish someone. D) To encourage someone. Answer: A) To refuse to acknowledge something wrong or problematic. Example: “The manager turned a blind eye to the employee’s repeated mistakes.”
9,581	What does the idiom “Turkey shoot” mean? A) A fair competition. B) A chaotic event. C) An extremely one-sided or unfair competition. D) A random chance event. Answer: C) An extremely one-sided or unfair competition. Example: “The championship game turned into a turkey shoot when one team dominated the other.”
9,582	What does the idiom “Tug-of-war” mean? A) A literal competition using a rope. B) A struggle for power or control between two opposing forces. C) A peaceful negotiation. D) A quick resolution. Answer: B) A struggle for power or control between two opposing forces. Example: “There’s been a tug-of-war between the two departments over the project budget.”
9,583	What does the idiom “Tube steak” mean? A) A steak cooked in a tube. B) An expensive gourmet meal. C) A hot dog. D) A fancy restaurant dish. Answer: C) A hot dog. Example: “At the barbecue, we grilled some tube steaks for the kids.”
9,584	What does the idiom “Trip to the woodshed” mean? A) To receive praise. B) To have a serious discussion. C) To go on a vacation. D) To be privately scolded or punished. Answer: D) To be privately scolded or punished. Example: “After the mistake, the manager took him on a trip to the woodshed.”
9,585	What does the idiom “Trick of the trade” mean? A) A secret or expert method used in a profession. B) A dishonest tactic. C) A beginner’s mistake. D) A useless method. Answer: A) A secret or expert method used in a profession. Example: “He taught me a few tricks of the trade for repairing engines.”
9,586	What does the idiom “Trailer trash” mean? A) Wealthy and sophisticated people. B) Poor, uneducated, or socially undesirable individuals. C) Very ambitious people. D) Extremely talented individuals. Answer: B) Poor, uneducated, or socially undesirable individuals. Example: “The rude comment referred to them unfairly as trailer trash.”
9,587	What does the idiom “Too cheap to meter” mean? A) Extremely expensive. B) Very easy to measure. C) So inexpensive it’s practically free. D) Very hard to measure. Answer: C) So inexpensive it’s practically free. Example: “Solar energy was once promised to be too cheap to meter.”
9,588	What does the idiom “Tonsil hockey” mean? A) A medical condition. B) Passionate kissing. C) Playing sports aggressively. D) Eating very quickly. Answer: B) Passionate kissing. Example: “They were playing tonsil hockey in the corner of the party.”
9,589	What does the idiom “To say the least” mean? A) An understatement about something significant. B) An exaggeration about something minor. C) A refusal to share information. D) A detailed explanation. Answer: A) An understatement about something significant. Example: “The storm was intense, to say the least.”
9,590	What does the idiom “To high heaven” mean? A) Extremely noticeable or obvious. B) Very subtle. C) Very unnecessary. D) Very mysterious. Answer: A) Extremely noticeable or obvious. Example: “The garbage stinks to high heaven.”
9,591	What does the idiom “To little avail” mean? A) With great success. B) With extreme effort. C) With complete failure. D) Without much success or effectiveness. Answer: D) Without much success or effectiveness. Example: “We searched for hours, but to little avail.”
9,592	What does the idiom “To hell and back” mean? A) To experience an easy situation. B) To go through extremely difficult or challenging experiences. C) To travel long distances. D) To avoid challenges. Answer: B) To go through extremely difficult or challenging experiences. Example: “After battling cancer, he’s been to hell and back.”
9,593	What does the idiom “Tin-pot dictatorship” mean? A) A powerful and respected government. B) A well-organized political system. C) A weak or corrupt leadership with little legitimacy. D) A futuristic government style. Answer: C) A weak or corrupt leadership with little legitimacy. Example: “The country has been run like a tin-pot dictatorship for years.”
9,594	What does the idiom “Tighten the purse strings” mean? A) To spend money freely. B) To be more cautious about spending money. C) To avoid financial planning. D) To invest heavily. Answer: B) To be more cautious about spending money. Example: “With rising costs, families are having to tighten the purse strings.”
9,595	What does the idiom “Tie up loose ends” mean? A) To finish unfinished tasks or resolve minor details. B) To create more complications. C) To avoid responsibility. D) To start a new task immediately. Answer: A) To finish unfinished tasks or resolve minor details. Example: “Before launching the website, we need to tie up loose ends.”
9,596	What does the idiom “Tickle the dragon’s tail” mean? A) To provoke someone harmlessly. B) To take a dangerous or reckless risk. C) To entertain someone greatly. D) To solve a complex problem carefully. Answer: B) To take a dangerous or reckless risk. Example: “Experimenting with faulty wiring is like tickling the dragon’s tail.”
9,597	What does the idiom “Throw stones at a glass house” mean? A) To criticize others while being guilty of similar faults. B) To be careful about fragile situations. C) To avoid taking risks. D) To be transparent and honest. Answer: A) To criticize others while being guilty of similar faults. Example: “You shouldn’t criticize others when your own mistakes are obvious; don’t throw stones at a glass house.”
9,598	What does the idiom “Throw cold water on” mean? A) To encourage an idea or plan. B) To celebrate someone’s success. C) To ignore someone’s suggestion. D) To criticize or discourage an idea or plan. Answer: D) To criticize or discourage an idea or plan. Example: “He threw cold water on my proposal during the meeting.”
9,599	What does the idiom “Thousand pardons” mean? A) An insincere apology. B) A refusal to apologize. C) A dramatic way to apologize for a mistake. D) A sarcastic response to an apology. Answer: C) A dramatic way to apologize for a mistake. Example: “I accidentally stepped on your foot; thousand pardons!”
9,600	What does the idiom “This is the new normal” mean? A) A temporary change in behavior. B) A situation or condition that has become standard or expected. C) A completely unrealistic expectation. D) A passing trend. Answer: B) A situation or condition that has become standard or expected. Example: “Working remotely is no longer unusual; it’s the new normal.”
9,601	What does the idiom “This is the business end of the gun” mean? A) The less dangerous part of something. B) The most decorative part of an object. C) The part of something that delivers results or consequences. D) The weakest part of an object. Answer: C) The part of something that delivers results or consequences. Example: “When negotiations failed, we were left facing the business end of the gun.”
9,602	What does the idiom “This is not your father’s Oldsmobile” mean? A) Something is outdated and no longer useful. B) Something is modern, updated, and improved compared to the past. C) Something is unreliable. D) Something is no longer available. Answer: B) Something is modern, updated, and improved compared to the past. Example: “The new software interface is sleek and efficient; this is not your father’s Oldsmobile.”
9,603	What does the idiom “This is a one-horse town” mean? A) A lively city. B) A technologically advanced town. C) A very small and quiet town with little activity. D) A wealthy area. Answer: C) A very small and quiet town with little activity. Example: “There’s not much to do in this one-horse town.”
9,604	What does the idiom “This has one name written all over it” mean? A) It’s unclear who is responsible. B) It clearly indicates someone’s involvement or ownership. C) It’s very confusing. D) It’s very important. Answer: B) It clearly indicates someone’s involvement or ownership. Example: “This clever marketing campaign has Sarah’s name written all over it.”
9,605	What does the idiom “They’re gonna square off” mean? A) They are going to agree. B) They are going to avoid each other. C) They are going to prepare for a confrontation or competition. D) They are going to form an alliance. Answer: C) They are going to prepare for a confrontation or competition. Example: “The two teams are going to square off in the final match.”
9,606	What does the idiom “They’re going to the polls” mean? A) They are going to vote in an election. B) They are taking a survey. C) They are conducting research. D) They are joining a protest. Answer: A) They are going to vote in an election. Example: “Voters are heading to the polls to elect a new mayor.”
9,607	What does the idiom “They’re going to tee off” mean? A) They are going to start a golf game. B) They are going to get very angry. C) They are going to start an activity or process. D) They are going to leave immediately. Answer: C) They are going to start an activity or process. Example: “We’ll tee off the meeting at 9 AM sharp.”
9,608	What does the idiom “They’re going to start cranking it out tomorrow” mean? A) They will begin working quickly and efficiently. B) They will delay the work. C) They will avoid completing the task. D) They will stop the project. Answer: A) They will begin working quickly and efficiently. Example: “The team will start cranking it out tomorrow to meet the deadline.”
9,609	What does the idiom “They were shooting the bull” mean? A) They were having a serious discussion. B) They were arguing aggressively. C) They were solving a problem efficiently. D) They were casually chatting or gossiping. Answer: D) They were casually chatting or gossiping. Example: “We spent the afternoon shooting the bull and didn’t get much work done.”
9,610	What does the idiom “They went in guns blazing” mean? A) They entered a situation calmly. B) They entered a situation aggressively or with full force. C) They avoided taking action. D) They retreated immediately. Answer: B) They entered a situation aggressively or with full force. Example: “The negotiators went in guns blazing during the final meeting.”
9,611	What does the idiom “They moved the goal post” mean? A) They made it easier to win. B) They avoided competition. C) They changed the rules or requirements unfairly. D) They celebrated too early. Answer: C) They changed the rules or requirements unfairly. Example: “Every time we meet their demands, they move the goal post.”
9,612	What does the idiom “They locked horns” mean? A) They worked together as a team. B) They agreed on everything. C) They avoided confrontation. D) They got into a serious disagreement or argument. Answer: D) They got into a serious disagreement or argument. Example: “The two managers locked horns over the project budget.”
9,613	What does the idiom “They had to let him go” mean? A) They promoted him to a higher position. B) They allowed him to take a vacation. C) They fired or dismissed him from his job. D) They ignored his complaints. Answer: C) They fired or dismissed him from his job. Example: “The company was downsizing, and they had to let him go.”
9,614	What does the idiom “They gave him the boot” mean? A) They gave him a promotion. B) They fired or dismissed him. C) They ignored him completely. D) They gave him special privileges. Answer: B) They fired or dismissed him. Example: “After repeated warnings, they finally gave him the boot.”
9,615	What does the idiom “They dropped it at my doorstep” mean? A) They delivered something literally to my home. B) They gave me a gift. C) They made me responsible for something without my consent. D) They avoided the situation entirely. Answer: C) They made me responsible for something without my consent. Example: “The whole problem was dropped at my doorstep, and now I have to fix it.”
9,616	What does the idiom “They all good money after bad” mean? A) They invested wisely. B) They continued to spend money on a failing or hopeless venture. C) They saved every penny. D) They stopped wasting money. Answer: B) They continued to spend money on a failing or hopeless venture. Example: “Investing more in that failing business is just throwing good money after bad.”
9,617	What does the idiom “There’s no there there” mean? A) There’s no real substance, meaning, or value in something. B) There’s something hidden. C) There’s a lot of potential. D) There’s no room for improvement. Answer: A) There’s no real substance, meaning, or value in something. Example: “After reviewing the plan, I realized there’s no there there; it lacks substance.”
9,618	What does the idiom “There is a nugget of truth in what he said” mean? A) Most of what he said was false. B) There is a small but important element of truth in his statement. C) Everything he said was exaggerated. D) His words had no meaning. Answer: B) There is a small but important element of truth in his statement. Example: “His story seemed exaggerated, but there was a nugget of truth in it.”
9,619	What does the idiom “The troops lost heart” mean? A) The group became very motivated. B) The group won a major victory. C) The group lost courage, confidence, and motivation. D) The group ignored orders. Answer: C) The group lost courage, confidence, and motivation. Example: “After losing the first round, the troops lost heart and began to retreat.”
9,620	What does the idiom “This sticks in my craw” mean? A) Something is very amusing. B) Something is extremely annoying or difficult to accept. C) Something is easily forgotten. D) Something is very confusing. Answer: B) Something is extremely annoying or difficult to accept. Example: “The way he dismissed my ideas in the meeting really sticks in my craw.”
9,621	What does the idiom “The show had me on the edge of my seat” mean? A) The show was very boring. B) The show was confusing. C) The show was extremely exciting or suspenseful. D) The show was very short. Answer: C) The show was extremely exciting or suspenseful. Example: “The thriller movie had me on the edge of my seat until the very end.”
9,622	What does the idiom “The quick and the dead” mean? A) A race where speed determines success. B) The living and the dead. C) The rich and the poor. D) Winners and losers. Answer: B) The living and the dead. Example: “In the Wild West, it was often the quick and the dead.”
9,623	What does the idiom “The nose knows” mean? A) Someone has a good sense of smell. B) Someone is easily fooled. C) Someone is very talkative. D) Someone has good instincts or intuition. Answer: D) Someone has good instincts or intuition. Example: “He spotted the fake immediately; the nose knows!”
9,624	What does the idiom “The new company is on a shoestring budget” mean? A) The company has a large amount of funding. B) The company is focused on marketing. C) The company is operating with very limited money or resources. D) The company has no financial issues. Answer: C) The company is operating with very limited money or resources. Example: “The startup is running on a shoestring budget, so every expense is monitored.”
9,625	What does the idiom “The natural order of things” mean? A) Chaos and unpredictability. B) The normal or expected way events unfold. C) Random acts of nature. D) Unexpected outcomes. Answer: B) The normal or expected way events unfold. Example: “Life and death are part of the natural order of things.”
9,626	What does the idiom “The nail that sticks out gets hammered down” mean? A) Individuality is often punished or discouraged. B) Standing out leads to rewards. C) Nails are always fixed first. D) Leadership is always admired. Answer: A) Individuality is often punished or discouraged. Example: “In a strict workplace, the nail that sticks out gets hammered down.”
9,627	What does the idiom “The judge locked him up and threw away the key” mean? A) The judge gave a very light sentence. B) The judge refused to hear the case. C) The judge gave a very severe and long prison sentence. D) The judge dismissed the case. Answer: C) The judge gave a very severe and long prison sentence. Example: “After hearing about his crimes, the judge locked him up and threw away the key.”
9,628	What does the idiom “The joke’s on you” mean? A) Someone played a joke on another person. B) The joke was a failure. C) The joke was not funny. D) The person trying to prank someone ends up being the victim. Answer: D) The person trying to prank someone ends up being the victim. Example: “You tried to embarrass me, but the joke’s on you!”
9,629	What does the idiom “The jig is up” mean? A) A dance party is over. B) A plan or scheme has been discovered and stopped. C) A job has been completed successfully. D) An opportunity has been missed. Answer: B) A plan or scheme has been discovered and stopped. Example: “The police arrived, and the criminals realized the jig was up.”
9,630
9,631	What does the idiom “The here and now” mean? A) The distant future. B) The past. C) The present moment or current situation. D) An uncertain time. Answer: C) The present moment or current situation. Example: “Stop worrying about tomorrow and focus on the here and now.”
9,632	What does the idiom “The hell you say” mean? A) Expressing disbelief or surprise. B) Agreeing with someone enthusiastically. C) Asking for clarification. D) Avoiding confrontation. Answer: A) Expressing disbelief or surprise. Example: “You’re quitting your job? The hell you say!”
9,633	What does the idiom “The going rate” mean? A) The standard or current price for something. B) A discounted rate. C) An inflated price. D) A hidden cost. Answer: A) The standard or current price for something. Example: “The going rate for a graphic designer in this city is $50 an hour.”
9,634	What does the idiom “The company went under” mean? A) The company expanded internationally. B) The company filed for bankruptcy or shut down. C) The company increased profits. D) The company merged with another firm. Answer: B) The company filed for bankruptcy or shut down. Example: “After months of poor sales, the company went under.”
9,635	What does the idiom “The company went the way of the dinosaurs” mean? A) The company became very successful. B) The company evolved into a new market. C) The company changed its structure. D) The company became outdated and eventually failed. Answer: D) The company became outdated and eventually failed. Example: “Refusing to adapt to new technology, the company went the way of the dinosaurs.”
9,636	What does the idiom “The company took a bath on that project” mean? A) The company made a significant profit. B) The company was bought by another firm. C) The company suffered a large financial loss. D) The company completed the project successfully. Answer: C) The company suffered a large financial loss. Example: “They invested heavily in the product, but it failed, and the company took a bath on that project.”
9,637	What does the idiom “The company breathed its last” mean? A) The company hired new employees. B) The company went bankrupt or ceased to exist. C) The company started a new venture. D) The company avoided bankruptcy. Answer: B) The company went bankrupt or ceased to exist. Example: “After years of struggling financially, the company finally breathed its last.”
9,638	What does the idiom “The boss was all over him like a rash” mean? A) The boss ignored him completely. B) The boss complimented him. C) The boss closely monitored and criticized him. D) The boss gave him a promotion. Answer: C) The boss closely monitored and criticized him. Example: “After the mistake in the report, the boss was all over him like a rash.”
9,639	What does the idiom “The boss turned the screws on him” mean? A) The boss promoted him. B) The boss pressured or threatened him to get results. C) The boss ignored him. D) The boss gave him more vacation time. Answer: B) The boss pressured or threatened him to get results. Example: “The boss turned the screws on him to finish the project ahead of schedule.”
9,640	What does the idiom “That’s not a hill I wanna die on” mean? A) A situation is worth fighting for. B) A situation is very important. C) A situation is not worth intense effort or conflict. D) A situation is easy to handle. Answer: C) A situation is not worth intense effort or conflict. Example: “I’ll let him have his way; this isn’t a hill I wanna die on.”
9,641	What does the idiom “That’s all she wrote” mean? A) Something is incomplete. B) There’s nothing more to be done or said. C) Something needs improvement. D) Something is too long. Answer: B) There’s nothing more to be done or said. Example: “We lost the game, and that’s all she wrote.”
9,642	What does the idiom “That would put hair on your chest” mean? A) Something is very mild. B) Something is funny. C) Something is very challenging or intense. D) Something is relaxing. Answer: C) Something is very challenging or intense. Example: “That spicy dish will put hair on your chest!”
9,643	What does the idiom “That was stone cold” mean? A) Something was very kind. B) Something was emotionless or ruthless. C) Something was very warm. D) Something was indecisive. Answer: B) Something was emotionless or ruthless. Example: “His response to the criticism was stone cold.”
9,644	What does the idiom “That was a real thigh-slapper” mean? A) Something was extremely funny. B) Something was very confusing. C) Something was embarrassing. D) Something was boring. Answer: A) Something was extremely funny. Example: “That joke you told was a real thigh-slapper!”
9,645	What does the idiom “That was a mind-numbing experience” mean? A) Something was extremely boring or dull. B) Something was extremely exciting. C) Something was very short. D) Something was easy to understand. Answer: A) Something was extremely boring or dull. Example: “That three-hour lecture was a mind-numbing experience.”
9,646	What does the idiom “That was a good one” mean? A) A sarcastic response to a bad joke. B) A compliment for a funny joke or witty remark. C) A way to end an argument. D) A sign of frustration. Answer: B) A compliment for a funny joke or witty remark. Example: “You had me laughing so hard; that was a good one!”
9,647	What does the idiom “That spun some heads” mean? A) It confused people. B) It made people angry. C) It attracted a lot of attention or surprise. D) It went unnoticed. Answer: C) It attracted a lot of attention or surprise. Example: “Her stunning dress really spun some heads at the party.”
9,648	What does the idiom “That set me back a few bucks” mean? A) Something was extremely cheap. B) Something costs a considerable amount of money. C) Something was borrowed. D) Something was given for free. Answer: B) Something costs a considerable amount of money. Example: “That fancy dinner set me back a few bucks.”
9,649	What does the idiom “That doesn’t sit well” mean? A) Something feels uncomfortable or unacceptable. B) Something feels perfect. C) Something is very funny. D) Something is unimportant. Answer: A) Something feels uncomfortable or unacceptable. Example: “His rude comment didn’t sit well with me.”
9,650	What does the idiom “That gets my juices flowing” mean? A) It makes someone very excited or motivated. B) It makes someone very tired. C) It confuses someone. D) It frustrates someone. Answer: A) It makes someone very excited or motivated. Example: “Talking about new projects always gets my juices flowing.”
9,651	What does the idiom “That fits the bill” mean? A) To be too expensive. B) To meet the requirements or be suitable. C) To be completely wrong. D) To avoid responsibility. Answer: B) To meet the requirements or be suitable. Example: “We need someone with leadership skills, and she fits the bill perfectly.”
9,652	What does the idiom “Thanks a bunch” mean? A) A sarcastic or genuine way of showing gratitude. B) A formal way to say thank you. C) A dismissive comment. D) A way to apologize. Answer: A) A sarcastic or genuine way of showing gratitude. Example: “You brought me coffee? Thanks a bunch!”
9,653	What does the idiom “That ‘perfect’ be the enemy of ‘good’” mean? A) Striving for perfection can prevent you from achieving something good. B) Always aim for perfection. C) Good things are never enough. D) Don’t bother trying if it’s not perfect. Answer: A) Striving for perfection can prevent you from achieving something good. Example: “We need to launch the product now; don’t let perfect be the enemy of good.”
9,654	What does the idiom “Thanks for nothing” mean? A) A sincere expression of gratitude. B) A sarcastic way to express frustration when help was unhelpful. C) A way to politely decline something. D) A compliment for effort. Answer: B) A sarcastic way to express frustration when help was unhelpful. Example: “You locked the keys in the car? Thanks for nothing!”
9,655	What does the idiom “Temper temper” mean? A) To compliment someone on their patience. B) To calm someone down when they are overly angry or irritable. C) To ask someone to hurry up. D) To apologize for an outburst. Answer: B) To calm someone down when they are overly angry or irritable. Example: “Whoa, temper temper! There’s no need to yell.”
9,656	What does the idiom “Teeny weenie” mean? A) Very large. B) Very bright. C) Very small or tiny. D) Very loud. Answer: C) Very small or tiny. Example: “The puppy was a teeny weenie ball of fluff.”
9,657	What does the idiom “Tell it to the judge” mean? A) To confess your feelings. B) To explain your case to someone who might care. C) To ignore someone completely. D) To win an argument. Answer: B) To explain your case to someone who might care. Example: “You can argue all you want, but if you think you’re right, tell it to the judge.”
9,658	What does the idiom “Tell it to the Marines” mean? A) To share something with authority figures. B) To believe everything you hear. C) To express skepticism about an unbelievable story. D) To prepare for battle. Answer: C) To express skepticism about an unbelievable story. Example: “You claim you wrestled a shark? Tell it to the Marines!”
9,659	What does the idiom “Teensy-weensy” mean? A) Very large. B) Very small or tiny. C) Very bright. D) Very loud. Answer: B) Very small or tiny. Example: “She gave me a teensy-weensy piece of cake.”
9,660	What does the idiom “Tall, dark, and handsome” mean? A) An unattractive person. B) A mysterious stranger. C) A physically attractive man. D) A shy and reserved person. Answer: C) A physically attractive man. Example: “She always dreamed of meeting someone tall, dark, and handsome.”
9,661	What does the idiom “Tall tale” mean? A) A very true story. B) An exaggerated or unbelievable story. C) A short and simple story. D) A scary story. Answer: B) An exaggerated or unbelievable story. Example: “His fishing story sounded like a tall tale to me.”
9,662	What does the idiom “Taken aback” mean? A) To feel surprised or shocked. B) To feel very happy. C) To feel angry. D) To act cautiously. Answer: A) To feel surprised or shocked. Example: “I was taken aback by her sudden announcement.”
9,663	What does the idiom “Take your attitude and shove it” mean? A) To act politely. B) To ignore someone completely. C) To apologize for bad behavior. D) To confront someone’s rude behavior directly. Answer: D) To confront someone’s rude behavior directly. Example: “If you don’t like my decision, you can take your attitude and shove it.”
9,664	What does the idiom “Take the full count” mean? A) To endure a situation until the end. B) To surrender immediately. C) To refuse to participate. D) To quit halfway. Answer: A) To endure a situation until the end. Example: “The boxer took the full count before standing up again.”
9,665	What does the idiom “Take the cake” mean? A) To win a competition. B) To be the most extreme or remarkable example of something, usually negative. C) To enjoy dessert. D) To act modestly. Answer: B) To be the most extreme or remarkable example of something, usually negative. Example: “I’ve seen bad ideas before, but this one takes the cake.”
9,666	What does the idiom “Take no prisoners” mean? A) To be very lenient. B) To act kindly. C) To show no mercy or compromise. D) To avoid confrontation. Answer: C) To show no mercy or compromise. Example: “During the debate, he took no prisoners and attacked every argument.”
9,667	What does the idiom “Take great pains” mean? A) To avoid hard work. B) To put in a lot of effort and care to do something. C) To ignore details. D) To act quickly without thinking. Answer: B) To put in a lot of effort and care to do something. Example: “She took great pains to ensure the report was perfect.”
9,668	What does the idiom “Take French leave” mean? A) To ask for permission before leaving. B) To leave gracefully. C) To leave without informing anyone or saying goodbye. D) To take a long vacation. Answer: C) To leave without informing anyone or saying goodbye. Example: “He took French leave halfway through the meeting.”
9,669	What does the idiom “Take a powder” mean? A) To take medicine. B) To leave quickly or suddenly, often to avoid trouble. C) To relax for a while. D) To prepare for a task. Answer: B) To leave quickly or suddenly, often to avoid trouble. Example: “When the police arrived, he took a powder.”
9,670	What does the idiom “Take a dive” mean? A) To swim in deep water. B) To take a big risk. C) To deliberately lose a contest or fail on purpose. D) To avoid confrontation. Answer: C) To deliberately lose a contest or fail on purpose. Example: “The boxer was accused of taking a dive in the final round.”
9,671	What does the idiom “Tagalong” mean? A) Someone who leads a group. B) Someone who joins others uninvited or without contributing much. C) Someone who avoids social situations. D) Someone who takes charge. Answer: B) Someone who joins others uninvited or without contributing much. Example: “Her little brother was a tagalong on their trip to the mall.”
9,672	What does the idiom “Table scraps” mean? A) Leftover food from a meal. B) Expensive gourmet dishes. C) An equal portion of food. D) A well-prepared meal. Answer: A) Leftover food from a meal. Example: “The dog waited patiently under the table for table scraps.”
9,673	What does the idiom “Sweetheart deal” mean? A) A romantic relationship agreement. B) A very favorable deal, often arranged secretly or unfairly. C) A one-sided deal. D) A temporary agreement. Answer: B) A very favorable deal, often arranged secretly or unfairly. Example: “The company secured a sweetheart deal with the city government.”
9,674	What does the idiom “Sweet-natured” mean? A) Someone who is very kind and gentle. B) Someone who is easily angered. C) Someone who avoids responsibility. D) Someone who is overly ambitious. Answer: A) Someone who is very kind and gentle. Example: “Her sweet-natured personality makes her loved by everyone.”
9,675	What does the idiom “Swap horses in midstream” mean? A) To change plans or leaders in the middle of a process. B) To start over completely. C) To make a risky financial investment. D) To act cautiously. Answer: A) To change plans or leaders in the middle of a process. Example: “Switching project managers now would be like swapping horses in midstream.”
9,676	What does the idiom “Sure as death” mean? A) Something uncertain. B) Something inevitable or absolutely certain. C) Something confusing. D) Something temporary. Answer: B) Something inevitable or absolutely certain. Example: “Taxes are as sure as death; there’s no escaping them.”
9,677	What does the idiom “Sunday-go-to-meeting clothes” mean? A) Clothes for a casual outing. B) Work clothes. C) Very formal or best clothing worn for special occasions. D) Clothes for sleeping. Answer: C) Very formal or best clothing worn for special occasions. Example: “He wore his Sunday-go-to-meeting clothes to the wedding.”
9,678	What does the idiom “Sunday punch” mean? A) A weak effort. B) A casual conversation. C) A celebratory drink. D) A devastating or decisive blow. Answer: D) A devastating or decisive blow. Example: “The boxer delivered a Sunday punch in the final round.”
9,679	What does the idiom “Stud muffin” mean? A) A very athletic man. B) A very attractive man. C) A very shy man. D) A very serious man. Answer: B) A very attractive man. Example: “Everyone at the party was talking about that stud muffin by the bar.”
9,680	What does the idiom “Strike it rich” mean? A) To become wealthy suddenly. B) To lose everything. C) To work extremely hard without success. D) To avoid risks. Answer: A) To become wealthy suddenly. Example: “He struck it rich after investing in that tech startup.”
9,681	What does the idiom “Stole his thunder” mean? A) To take credit for someone else’s success. B) To encourage someone. C) To fail at an important task. D) To avoid responsibility. Answer: A) To take credit for someone else’s success. Example: “She stole his thunder by announcing the news before he could.”
9,682	What does the idiom “Stick out like a sore thumb” mean? A) To blend in perfectly. B) To be very noticeable or out of place. C) To avoid attention. D) To stay hidden. Answer: B) To be very noticeable or out of place. Example: “In his bright yellow suit, he stuck out like a sore thumb at the party.”
9,683	What does the idiom “Sprung to life” mean? A) To become active or energetic suddenly. B) To remain still. C) To avoid confrontation. D) To stay asleep. Answer: A) To become active or energetic suddenly. Example: “When the music started, the crowd sprang to life.”
9,684	What does the idiom “Stand up and be counted” mean? A) To stay silent in a difficult situation. B) To stand tall physically. C) To openly take a stand for something. D) To leave a group immediately. Answer: C) To openly take a stand for something. Example: “It’s time for all of us to stand up and be counted in support of this cause.”
9,685	What does the idiom “Spike the football” mean? A) To celebrate a success with excessive pride. B) To quit while ahead. C) To hide a victory. D) To avoid confrontation. Answer: A) To celebrate a success with excessive pride. Example: “You don’t need to spike the football every time you win an argument.”
9,686	What does the idiom “Speedy Gonzales” mean? A) Someone who is extremely fast. B) Someone who is very slow. C) Someone who is very clumsy. D) Someone who is very creative. Answer: A) Someone who is extremely fast. Example: “He finished his work in record time; he’s like Speedy Gonzales.”
9,687	What does the idiom “Snot-nosed” mean? A) Very intelligent. B) Arrogant, immature, or rude, often referring to a young person. C) Extremely shy. D) Extremely polite. Answer: B) Arrogant, immature, or rude, often referring to a young person. Example: “That snot-nosed kid thinks he knows everything.”
9,688	What does the idiom “Soften the blows” mean? A) To make a bad situation easier to handle. B) To increase pressure on someone. C) To ignore a problem. D) To avoid responsibility. Answer: A) To make a bad situation easier to handle. Example: “The manager tried to soften the blows when delivering the bad news.”
9,689	What does the idiom “Soft underbelly” mean? A) The most vulnerable or weak part of something. B) The most important part of a plan. C) The least noticeable part of something. D) The strongest part of something. Answer: A) The most vulnerable or weak part of something. Example: “Their defense is strong, but their midfield is the soft underbelly.”
9,690	What does the idiom “Snitches get stitches” mean? A) Those who tell secrets get rewarded. B) Those who betray others will face consequences. C) Those who are brave will succeed. D) Those who help others will be celebrated. Answer: B) Those who betray others will face consequences. Example: “He refused to tell the teacher because he believed snitches get stitches.”
9,691	What does the idiom “Smart as a whip” mean? A) Very clever or intelligent. B) Very physically strong. C) Very shy and reserved. D) Very confused. Answer: A) Very clever or intelligent. Example: “That kid is smart as a whip; he figured out the puzzle in minutes.”
9,692	What does the idiom “Slug it out” mean? A) To avoid confrontation. B) To fight or argue intensely until a winner emerges. C) To leave a competition. D) To give up on a task. Answer: B) To fight or argue intensely until a winner emerges. Example: “The two boxers slugged it out for twelve rounds before a winner was declared.”
9,693	What does the idiom “Slower than molasses” mean? A) Moving extremely slowly. B) Moving very quickly. C) Acting without thinking. D) Acting recklessly. Answer: A) Moving extremely slowly. Example: “The line at the coffee shop was moving slower than molasses this morning.”
9,694	What does the idiom “Sing from the same hymn book” mean? A) To sing beautifully together. B) To share the same opinion or agree on something. C) To argue constantly. D) To act confused. Answer: B) To share the same opinion or agree on something. Example: “In a team, it’s important to sing from the same hymn book.”
9,695	What does the idiom “Slave to fashion” mean? A) Someone obsessed with following fashion trends. B) Someone who avoids wearing trendy clothes. C) Someone who designs clothes. D) Someone who is extremely creative. Answer: A) Someone obsessed with following fashion trends. Example: “He spends all his money on designer clothes; he’s a slave to fashion.”
9,696	What does the idiom “Slam on the brakes” mean? A) To stop a vehicle suddenly. B) To make a situation worse. C) To act more cautiously. D) To refuse to move forward. Answer: A) To stop a vehicle suddenly. Example: “I had to slam on the brakes when the car in front of me stopped suddenly.”
9,697	What does the idiom “Six ways to Sunday” mean? A) Doing something quickly and efficiently. B) Considering every possible way or angle. C) Avoiding a situation entirely. D) Making a decision hastily. Answer: B) Considering every possible way or angle. Example: “We examined the plan six ways to Sunday before making a decision.”
9,698	What does the idiom “Six or two threes” mean? A) A situation where two options are essentially the same. B) A very confusing situation. C) A situation with clear choices. D) An easy decision. Answer: A) A situation where two options are essentially the same. Example: “Whether we leave now or later, it’s six or two threes; we’ll still get there at the same time.”
9,699	What does the idiom “She’s not just a pretty face” mean? A) She is beautiful but not very intelligent. B) She is both attractive and intelligent. C) She is very shy. D) She avoids attention. Answer: B) She is both attractive and intelligent. Example: “Don’t underestimate her; she’s not just a pretty face.”
9,700	What does the idiom “She’s got a ticket to ride” mean? A) She has permission or the means to do something freely. B) She’s leaving town permanently. C) She’s buying a train ticket. D) She’s refusing to travel. Answer: A) She has permission or the means to do something freely. Example: “She’s financially independent now; she’s got a ticket to ride.”
9,701	What does the idiom “She’s driving me crazy” mean? A) She’s entertaining me. B) She’s teaching me something new. C) She’s helping me focus. D) She’s making me very annoyed or frustrated. Answer: D) She’s making me very annoyed or frustrated. Example: “She keeps changing her mind; it’s driving me crazy!”
9,702	What does the idiom “She would light up the room” mean? A) She would literally brighten a room. B) Her presence brings joy and energy to everyone around. C) She would clean the room thoroughly. D) She would decorate the room. Answer: B) Her presence brings joy and energy to everyone around. Example: “She had such a vibrant personality; she would light up any room she entered.”
9,703	What does the idiom “She will keep her lips sealed” mean? A) She will talk loudly. B) She will refuse to eat. C) She will keep a secret. D) She will gossip about something. Answer: C) She will keep a secret. Example: “Don’t worry, she’ll keep her lips sealed about the surprise party.”
9,704	What does the idiom “She turns heads” mean? A) She causes people to look at her because of her attractiveness or presence. B) She avoids attention. C) She makes people confused. D) She argues with everyone. Answer: A) She causes people to look at her because of her attractiveness or presence. Example: “Whenever she walks into a room, she turns heads.”
9,705	What does the idiom “She tanned his hide” mean? A) She gave him a suntan. B) She scolded or punished him severely. C) She ignored him. D) She embarrassed him publicly. Answer: B) She scolded or punished him severely. Example: “When her son broke the window, she tanned his hide.”
9,706	What does the idiom “She stalled him” mean? A) She stopped him from leaving. B) She convinced him to stay. C) She delayed him intentionally. D) She ignored him completely. Answer: C) She delayed him intentionally. Example: “She stalled him at the front door while we finished setting up the surprise party.”
9,707	What does the idiom “She spilled her guts” mean? A) She cooked an elaborate meal. B) She confessed everything or shared deeply personal information. C) She kept a secret. D) She refused to speak. Answer: B) She confessed everything or shared deeply personal information. Example: “After hours of questioning, she finally spilled her guts to the police.”
9,708	What does the idiom “She runs hot and cold” mean? A) She is physically sick. B) She avoids making decisions. C) She changes her attitude or feelings frequently. D) She is very stubborn. Answer: C) She changes her attitude or feelings frequently. Example: “One day she’s excited about the project, and the next she’s uninterested; she runs hot and cold.”
9,709	What does the idiom “She read my hand” mean? A) She is a palm reader and guessed my future. B) She understood my intentions perfectly. C) She gave me advice. D) She criticized me. Answer: A) She is a palm reader and guessed my future. Example: “Before I could explain, she read my hands and knew exactly what I meant.”
9,710	What does the idiom “She looks down her nose at him” mean? A) She admires him greatly. B) She ignores him. C) She treats him with contempt or superiority. D) She is afraid of him. Answer: C) She treats him with contempt or superiority. Example: “She looks down her nose at anyone who doesn’t share her expensive tastes.”
9,711	What does the idiom “She likes the sound of her voice” mean? A) She is a great singer. B) She talks too much and enjoys hearing herself speak. C) She speaks very softly. D) She avoids public speaking. Answer: B) She talks too much and enjoys hearing herself speak. Example: “She dominates every meeting; it’s clear she likes the sound of her own voice.”
9,712	What does the idiom “She led him on” mean? A) She encouraged him to believe something untrue, especially romantically. B) She helped him with a task. C) She ignored him completely. D) She advised him wisely. Answer: A) She encouraged him to believe something untrue, especially romantically. Example: “He thought she liked him, but she was just leading him on.”
9,713	What does the idiom “She led him by the nose” mean? A) She ignored him completely. B) She had complete control over him. C) She trusted him fully. D) She tricked him into doing something. Answer: B) She had complete control over him. Example: “He followed her everywhere; she led him by the nose.”
9,714	What does the idiom “She knocked him off his perch” mean? A) She embarrassed him publicly. B) She encouraged him. C) She supported him. D) She ignored him. Answer: A) She embarrassed him publicly. Example: “Her sharp reply knocked him off his perch during the debate.”
9,715	What does the idiom “She keeps things bottled up” mean? A) She shares her feelings openly. B) She acts irresponsibly. C) She avoids social gatherings. D) She hides her emotions or problems. Answer: D) She hides her emotions or problems. Example: “She keeps things bottled up instead of talking about her worries.”
9,716	What does the idiom “She keeps putting it off” mean? A) She finishes tasks immediately. B) She delays or avoids doing something. C) She is always prepared. D) She avoids attention. Answer: B) She delays or avoids doing something. Example: “She keeps putting off her dentist appointment.”
9,717	What does the idiom “She is out of the picture” mean? A) She is no longer relevant or involved. B) She is the main focus. C) She is hiding from everyone. D) She is very busy. Answer: A) She is no longer relevant or involved. Example: “Since she left the company, she’s out of the picture now.”
9,718	What does the idiom “She is off her game” mean? A) She is performing below her usual standard. B) She is winning consistently. C) She is playing unfairly. D) She is avoiding competition. Answer: A) She is performing below her usual standard. Example: “She’s usually great at tennis, but today she’s off her game.”
9,719	What does the idiom “She is just a notch in his bedpost” mean? A) She is very important to him. B) She is his boss. C) She is his long-term partner. D) She is one of many casual romantic encounters for him. Answer: D) She is one of many casual romantic encounters for him. Example: “To him, she was just another notch in his bedpost.”
9,720	What does the idiom “She is excess baggage” mean? A) She is highly valued. B) She is unnecessary or unwanted. C) She travels frequently. D) She is always prepared. Answer: B) She is unnecessary or unwanted. Example: “In the team project, she felt like excess baggage.”
9,721	What does the idiom “She is a survivor” mean? A) She gives up easily. B) She avoids responsibilities. C) She endures challenges and overcomes difficulties. D) She never takes risks. Answer: C) She endures challenges and overcomes difficulties. Example: “Despite everything she’s been through, she is a survivor.”
9,722	What does the idiom “She has her hand on the till” mean? A) She’s very generous with money. B) She’s stealing money from the cash register. C) She’s managing finances wisely. D) She’s avoiding financial responsibility. Answer: B) She’s stealing money from the cash register. Example: “The accountant was caught with her hand on the till.”
9,723	What does the idiom “She has an eye for it” mean? A) She can spot details or recognize quality. B) She ignores small details. C) She avoids making decisions. D) She dislikes analyzing things. Answer: A) She can spot details or recognize quality. Example: “She has an eye for fashion and always picks the best outfits.”
9,724	What does the idiom “She has a gift of gab” mean? A) She is very good at public speaking or conversation. B) She avoids talking. C) She stutters often. D) She is very quiet. Answer: A) She is very good at public speaking or conversation. Example: “She’s perfect for sales; she has a gift of gab.”
9,725	What does the idiom “She hit it out of the ballpark” mean? A) She made a huge mistake. B) She ignored the rules. C) She left the event early. D) She achieved an extraordinary success. Answer: D) She achieved an extraordinary success. Example: “Her presentation was fantastic; she hit it out of the ballpark!”
9,726	What does the idiom “She gave him the eye” mean? A) She stared at him angrily. B) She showed romantic interest. C) She avoided looking at him. D) She was confused by him. Answer: B) She showed romantic interest. Example: “She gave him the eye across the room at the party.”
9,727	What does the idiom “She gave him the business” mean? A) She started a company with him. B) She gave him advice. C) She criticized or scolded him severely. D) She ignored him completely. Answer: C) She criticized or scolded him severely. Example: “When he forgot their anniversary, she really gave him the business.”
9,728	What does the idiom “She gave him a fat lip” mean? A) She kissed him. B) She punched him in the mouth. C) She complimented him. D) She argued with him. Answer: B) She punched him in the mouth. Example: “He insulted her, and she gave him a fat lip.”
9,729	What does the idiom “She can’t take a hint” mean? A) She understands everything immediately. B) She is very subtle. C) She fails to understand indirect clues or suggestions. D) She avoids conversations. Answer: C) She fails to understand indirect clues or suggestions. Example: “I’ve been dropping hints about the party, but she can’t take a hint.”
9,730	What does the idiom “She brushed him off” mean? A) She gave him money. B) She ignored or dismissed him. C) She complimented him. D) She cleaned his shirt. Answer: B) She ignored or dismissed him. Example: “When he asked her out, she brushed him off without hesitation.”
9,731	What does the idiom “Sharp as a butter knife” mean? A) Very intelligent and quick-witted. B) Very confident. C) Extremely aggressive. D) Not very sharp or smart. Answer: D) Not very sharp or smart. Example: “He tried solving the puzzle, but he’s sharp as a butter knife.”
9,732	What does the idiom “Settle the score” mean? A) To write a music score. B) To make peace with someone. C) To get revenge or resolve a conflict. D) To ignore a disagreement. Answer: C) To get revenge or resolve a conflict. Example: “After losing last year, the team is ready to settle the score this season.”
9,733	What does the idiom “Set in motion” mean? A) To stop something. B) To start or initiate a process. C) To leave something unfinished. D) To delay something. Answer: B) To start or initiate a process. Example: “His decision set in motion a series of unexpected events.”
9,734	What does the idiom “Set a spell” mean? A) To leave immediately. B) To work continuously. C) To sit down and relax for a while. D) To start arguing. Answer: C) To sit down and relax for a while. Example: “Come on in and set a spell; I’ll get you some tea.”
9,735	What does the idiom “Serve two masters” mean? A) To handle two responsibilities effectively. B) To have conflicting loyalties or responsibilities. C) To quit one responsibility. D) To act dishonestly. Answer: B) To have conflicting loyalties or responsibilities. Example: “Working two jobs was like trying to serve two masters.”
9,736	What does the idiom “Seize the day” mean? A) To wait for a better time. B) To avoid taking action. C) To make the most of the present moment. D) To predict the future. Answer: C) To make the most of the present moment. Example: “You should seize the day and take that trip you’ve always wanted.”
9,737	What does the idiom “Seismic shift” mean? A) A small, insignificant change. B) A sudden, major change. C) A predictable event. D) A temporary issue. Answer: B) A sudden, major change. Example: “The new technology caused a seismic shift in the industry.”
9,738	What does the idiom “Scream, bloody murder” mean? A) To whisper softly. B) To stay silent under pressure. C) To shout or complain loudly and dramatically. D) To laugh uncontrollably. Answer: C) To shout or complain loudly and dramatically. Example: “When she saw the spider, she screamed bloody murder.”
9,739	What does the idiom “Scratch together” mean? A) To create something perfectly. B) To gather something with difficulty. C) To destroy something quickly. D) To give up on a task. Answer: B) To gather something with difficulty. Example: “I managed to scratch together enough money to pay the bill.”
9,740	What does the idiom “Scared straight” mean? A) To be so scared that one changes their behavior. B) To become more courageous. C) To run away from fear. D) To laugh nervously. Answer: A) To be so scared that one changes their behavior. Example: “After that car accident, he was scared straight and started driving more carefully.”
9,741	What does the idiom “Sacked out” mean? A) To be very energetic. B) To refuse to sleep. C) To leave a place quickly. D) To fall asleep or rest deeply. Answer: D) To fall asleep or rest deeply. Example: “After the long hike, he sacked out on the couch.”
9,742	What does the idiom “Say the quiet part loud” mean? A) To share a secret unintentionally. B) To give an impressive speech. C) To speak very softly. D) To clarify a misunderstanding. Answer: A) To share a secret unintentionally. Example: “When he mentioned the real cost of the project in the meeting, he said the quiet part loud.”
9,743	What does the idiom “Sail under false colors” mean? A) To pretend to be someone or something else. B) To avoid responsibility. C) To act with great courage. D) To win an argument. Answer: A) To pretend to be someone or something else. Example: “He sailed under false colors, pretending to be an ally while working against us.”
9,744	What does the idiom “Russian roulette” mean? A) Taking a calculated risk. B) Taking a dangerous and reckless gamble. C) Playing a strategic game. D) Acting cautiously. Answer: B) Taking a dangerous and reckless gamble. Example: “Investing all your savings in that risky startup is like playing Russian roulette.”
9,745	What does the idiom “Running scared” mean? A) To be overly cautious. B) To act confidently under pressure. C) To feel very nervous or afraid about something. D) To refuse to take action. Answer: C) To feel very nervous or afraid about something. Example: “After the scandal, the politician was running scared during the campaign.”
9,746	What does the idiom “Run afoul of” mean? A) To run away quickly. B) To avoid a situation entirely. C) To follow the rules perfectly. D) To be in conflict or trouble with someone or something. Answer: D) To be in conflict or trouble with someone or something. Example: “He ran afoul of the law when he failed to pay his taxes.”
9,747	What does the idiom “Rule the roost” mean? A) To act irresponsibly. B) To be in charge or in control. C) To follow orders without question. D) To avoid responsibility. Answer: B) To be in charge or in control. Example: “In their family, it’s clear that Grandma rules the roost.”
9,748	What does the idiom “Root cause” mean? A) The original or fundamental reason for something. B) A temporary explanation. C) An unrelated issue. D) A distraction from the main problem. Answer: A) The original or fundamental reason for something. Example: “We need to identify the root cause of the system failure before we can fix it.”
9,749	What does the idiom “Ripe old age” mean? A) Very young. B) Very wise. C) Living to an advanced age. D) Very impatient. Answer: C) Living to an advanced age. Example: “He lived to the ripe old age of 95 and had a fulfilling life.”
9,750	What does the idiom “Rip off the Band-Aid” mean? A) To fix a problem carefully. B) To slowly resolve an issue. C) To ignore a problem. D) To address a difficult situation quickly and decisively. Answer: D) To address a difficult situation quickly and decisively. Example: “Let’s rip off the Band-Aid and tell them the bad news now.”
9,751	What does the idiom “Ring down the curtain” mean? A) To start a performance. B) To end something, such as a performance or event. C) To change the topic of conversation. D) To announce good news. Answer: B) To end something, such as a performance or event. Example: “After 30 years in the industry, he decided to ring down the curtain on his career.”
9,752	What does the idiom “Riding on his coattails” mean? A) To succeed because of someone else’s success. B) To fail because of someone else’s mistake. C) To avoid hard work. D) To act bravely. Answer: A) To succeed because of someone else’s success. Example: “He’s riding on his boss’s coattails to climb the corporate ladder.”
9,753	What does the idiom “Render unto Caesar” mean? A) To avoid responsibility. B) To give what is due to the authorities or rightful owner. C) To protest against taxes. D) To steal from others. Answer: B) To give what is due to the authorities or rightful owner. Example: “Pay your taxes; it’s time to render unto Caesar.”
9,754	What does the idiom “Rhyme or reason” mean? A) Logical explanation or justification. B) A song or poem. C) A silly joke. D) A secret message. Answer: A) Logical explanation or justification. Example: “There’s no rhyme or reason for his sudden decision to quit.”
9,755	What does the idiom “Rest on his laurels” mean? A) To stop trying after achieving success. B) To continue improving despite success. C) To avoid responsibility. D) To work harder than before. Answer: A) To stop trying after achieving success. Example: “After winning the championship, the team started resting on their laurels.”
9,756	What does the idiom “Red face test” mean? A) A test of physical endurance. B) A test of intelligence. C) A test to see if something would cause embarrassment. D) A test of patience. Answer: C) A test to see if something would cause embarrassment. Example: “Does your marketing strategy pass the red face test?”
9,757	What does the idiom “Ready and waiting” mean? A) Not prepared. B) Fully prepared and waiting for action. C) Completely confused. D) Very excited. Answer: B) Fully prepared and waiting for action. Example: “The team is ready and waiting for the client’s arrival.”
9,758	What does the idiom “Raise the roof” mean? A) To celebrate loudly or enthusiastically. B) To repair a damaged house. C) To leave quietly. D) To build a new home. Answer: A) To celebrate loudly or enthusiastically. Example: “The fans raised the roof when their team scored the winning goal.”
9,759	What does the idiom “Rabble-rouser” mean? A) Someone who calms a crowd. B) Someone who stirs up trouble or protests. C) Someone who avoids confrontation. D) Someone who tells jokes. Answer: B) Someone who stirs up trouble or protests. Example: “The rabble-rouser incited the crowd to protest against the policy.”
9,760	What does the idiom “Quiet as a mouse” mean? A) Very loud. B) Very mischievous. C) Very silent and unobtrusive. D) Very brave. Answer: C) Very silent and unobtrusive. Example: “The children were quiet as mice when they sneaked into the kitchen for cookies.”
9,761	What does the idiom “Quick on the uptake” mean? A) Very slow to understand something. B) Quick to understand or grasp an idea. C) Confused about simple instructions. D) Always distracted. Answer: B) Quick to understand or grasp an idea. Example: “She’s quick on the uptake and understood the instructions immediately.”
9,762	What does the idiom “Quick on his feet” mean? A) Able to move physically fast. B) Always in a hurry. C) Able to think and respond quickly. D) Very athletic. Answer: C) Able to think and respond quickly. Example: “He’s quick on his feet, which makes him a great lawyer in cross-examinations.”
9,763	What does the idiom “Putting on airs” mean? A) To act naturally. B) To pretend to be more important or refined than one really is. C) To speak loudly in public. D) To show excitement. Answer: B) To pretend to be more important or refined than one really is. Example: “She’s always putting on airs when she talks about her vacation homes.”
9,764	What does the idiom “Putting a Band-Aid on a bullet wound” mean? A) To solve a problem effectively. B) To prevent something from happening. C) To offer a temporary or inadequate solution to a serious problem. D) To celebrate a minor victory. Answer: C) To offer a temporary or inadequate solution to a serious problem. Example: “Giving small bonuses won’t fix the company’s financial crisis; it’s like putting a Band-Aid on a bullet wound.”
9,765	What does the idiom “Put your John Hancock here” mean? A) To write your initials. B) To sign your name on a document. C) To make a phone call. D) To write a poem. Answer: B) To sign your name on a document. Example: “Please put your John Hancock here to finalize the agreement.”
9,766	What does the idiom “Put your Jane Hancock here” mean? A) To write a letter. B) To draw a picture. C) To sign your name on a document (used humorously). D) To approve a decision. Answer: C) To sign your name on a document (used humorously). Example: “Alright, just put your Jane Hancock here, and we’re all set.”
9,767	What does the idiom “Put down roots” mean? A) To start gardening. B) To establish a permanent home or lifestyle. C) To make a temporary stop. D) To start a small business. Answer: B) To establish a permanent home or lifestyle. Example: “After traveling for years, they decided to put down roots in a quiet town.”
9,768	What does the idiom “Put a gun to his head” mean? A) To threaten someone with force. B) To encourage someone gently. C) To ask politely. D) To support someone financially. Answer: A) To threaten someone with force. Example: “Nobody put a gun to his head; he signed the contract willingly.”
9,769	What does the idiom “Punch his lights out” mean? A) To fix someone’s broken lights. B) To knock someone unconscious by hitting them. C) To have a heated argument. D) To give someone good advice. Answer: B) To knock someone unconscious by hitting them. Example: “If he insults me again, I’ll punch his lights out.”
9,770	What does the idiom “Pull the shutters down” mean? A) To close a shop or business permanently. B) To take a quick break. C) To redecorate a space. D) To invite someone in. Answer: A) To close a shop or business permanently. Example: “After 50 years of running the café, the owners decided to pull the shutters down.”
9,771	What does the idiom “Professional victim” mean? A) Someone who takes responsibility for their actions. B) Someone who seeks revenge often. C) A trained first responder. D) Someone who constantly portrays themselves as a victim. Answer: D) Someone who constantly portrays themselves as a victim. Example: “She’s always blaming others; she’s a professional victim.”
9,772	What does the idiom “Pub-crawl” mean? A) Visiting multiple pubs or bars in one outing. B) Avoiding alcohol altogether. C) Getting lost in a city. D) Attending a fancy dinner. Answer: A) Visiting multiple pubs or bars in one outing. Example: “We went on a pub-crawl to celebrate his birthday.”
9,773	What does the idiom “Psychological warfare” mean? A) Using mental tactics to manipulate or intimidate others. B) A physical fight. C) Ignoring a problem. D) Avoiding confrontation. Answer: A) Using mental tactics to manipulate or intimidate others. Example: “The debate turned into psychological warfare between the two candidates.”
9,774	What does the idiom “Primrose path” mean? A) A difficult journey. B) An easy but ultimately harmful course of action. C) A safe and secure path. D) A clear and direct route. Answer: B) An easy but ultimately harmful course of action. Example: “He’s walking down the primrose path with his reckless spending habits.”
9,775	What does the idiom “Prim and proper” mean? A) Very formal, neat, and well-behaved. B) Very messy and careless. C) Very aggressive and bold. D) Very casual and laid-back. Answer: A) Very formal, neat, and well-behaved. Example: “She’s always prim and proper when attending social events.”
9,776	What does the idiom “Pour fuel on the fire” mean? A) To calm a situation. B) To celebrate a victory. C) To end an argument. D) To make a bad situation worse. Answer: D) To make a bad situation worse. Example: “His rude comment only poured fuel on the fire during the argument.”
9,777	What does the idiom “Potter’s Field” mean? A) A wealthy area. B) A public burial ground for the poor or unknown. C) A farmer’s market. D) A playground for children. Answer: B) A public burial ground for the poor or unknown. Example: “Many unidentified people were buried in Potter’s Field.”
9,778	What does the idiom “Popcorn movie” mean? A) A movie about farming. B) A documentary. C) A light, entertaining movie with little depth. D) A serious and emotional movie. Answer: C) A light, entertaining movie with little depth. Example: “That superhero film was a perfect popcorn movie.”
9,779	What does the idiom “Pop his clogs” mean? A) To retire early. B) To die. C) To lose one’s temper. D) To win a competition. Answer: B) To die. Example: “He popped his clogs after a long battle with illness.”
9,780	What does the idiom “Point blank” mean? A) At a very close range or directly. B) Indirectly or vaguely. C) Very casually. D) With great hesitation. Answer: A) At a very close range or directly. Example: “I asked him point blank if he was planning to leave the company.”
9,781	What does the idiom “Plow a lonely furrow” mean? A) To avoid responsibility. B) To work alone or independently, often in a challenging situation. C) To follow a popular trend. D) To quit when things get hard. Answer: B) To work alone or independently, often in a challenging situation. Example: “He’s plowing a lonely furrow in his campaign against corruption.”
9,782	What does the idiom “Playing with house money” mean? A) Spending someone else’s money or winnings. B) Playing a board game. C) Borrowing money from a friend. D) Spending your savings wisely. Answer: A) Spending someone else’s money or winnings. Example: “Since we already made a profit, we’re playing with house money now.”
9,783	What does the idiom “Play the ponies” mean? A) To participate in horse racing. B) To own a horse farm. C) To train horses. D) To bet on horse racing. Answer: D) To bet on horse racing. Example: “He spends every weekend at the track playing the ponies.”
9,784	What does the idiom “Play the Nazi card” mean? A) To make an irrelevant historical reference. B) To exaggerate an argument by comparing someone to Nazis or Hitler. C) To win an argument cleverly. D) To act secretively. Answer: B) To exaggerate an argument by comparing someone to Nazis or Hitler. Example: “He lost the debate when he decided to play the Nazi card unnecessarily.”
9,785	What does the idiom “Play the man and not the ball” mean? A) To focus on personal attacks rather than the issue at hand. B) To avoid confrontation. C) To follow the rules. D) To act fairly in competition. Answer: A) To focus on personal attacks rather than the issue at hand. Example: “During the debate, he played the man and not the ball, attacking his opponent personally.”
9,786	What does the idiom “Play hooky” mean? A) To go fishing. B) To skip school or work without permission. C) To work overtime. D) To act suspiciously. Answer: B) To skip school or work without permission. Example: “He decided to play hooky and spend the day at the beach instead of going to school.”
9,787	What does the idiom “Play hardball” mean? A) To act in a playful manner. B) To act cautiously. C) To quit a difficult task. D) To act aggressively or ruthlessly to achieve a goal. Answer: D) To act aggressively or ruthlessly to achieve a goal. Example: “If they refuse to negotiate, we’ll have to play hardball.”
9,788	What does the idiom “Pissing war” mean? A) A light-hearted competition. B) A childish argument or contest where neither side gains anything. C) A sports event. D) A team-building exercise. Answer: B) A childish argument or contest where neither side gains anything. Example: “The two managers are stuck in a pissing war, and nothing is getting resolved.”
9,789	What does the idiom “Pitch hit” mean? A) To physically hit someone. B) To quit a task halfway through. C) To step in and take over someone else’s responsibility, usually in an emergency. D) To deliver a sales pitch. Answer: C) To step in and take over someone else’s responsibility, usually in an emergency. Example: “When the lead actor fell sick, his understudy had to pitch hit.”
9,790	What does the idiom “Piss and moan” mean? A) To complain excessively. B) To celebrate loudly. C) To stay silent. D) To work quietly. Answer: A) To complain excessively. Example: “All he does is piss and moan about his job.”
9,791	What does the idiom “Peter Pan syndrome” mean? A) Fear of flying. B) Fear of responsibility. C) Extreme optimism. D) Immaturity or unwillingness to grow up. Answer: D) Immaturity or unwillingness to grow up. Example: “He’s in his forties but still acts like a teenager; classic Peter Pan syndrome.”
9,792	What does the idiom “Penny wedding” mean? A) An extravagant wedding. B) A wedding with minimal expense. C) A wedding in a foreign country. D) A wedding sponsored by the government. Answer: B) A wedding with minimal expense. Example: “They decided on a penny wedding to save money for their future.”
9,793	What does the idiom “Penny pincher” mean? A) Someone who wastes money. B) Someone who spends money freely. C) Someone who is very frugal or careful with money. D) Someone who avoids paying bills. Answer: C) Someone who is very frugal or careful with money. Example: “My uncle is such a penny pincher; he refuses to buy anything full price.”
9,794	What does the idiom “Piss about” mean? A) To waste time or act foolishly. B) To work very hard. C) To avoid responsibility. D) To solve a problem quickly. Answer: A) To waste time or act foolishly. Example: “Stop pissing about and focus on the task!”
9,795	What does the idiom “Pennies on the dollar” mean? A) Buying something very cheaply. B) Spending money recklessly. C) Losing money in an investment. D) Earning extra income. Answer: A) Buying something very cheaply. Example: “He bought those antiques for pennies on the dollar.”
9,796	What does the idiom “Pennies in the fuse box” mean? A) A risky or dangerous temporary fix. B) A clever solution to a problem. C) An expensive repair. D) A quick and easy fix. Answer: A) A risky or dangerous temporary fix. Example: “Using pennies in the fuse box might work briefly, but it’s incredibly dangerous.”
9,797	What does the idiom “Pay the fiddler” mean? A) To avoid consequences. B) To organize a party. C) To make a large donation. D) To face the consequences of one’s actions. Answer: D) To face the consequences of one’s actions. Example: “You had fun last night, but now it’s time to pay the fiddler.”
9,798	What does the idiom “Pay off old scores” mean? A) To repay a loan. B) To settle past grievances or revenge. C) To celebrate an old victory. D) To ignore past arguments. Answer: B) To settle past grievances or revenge. Example: “He returned to the town to pay off old scores with his rival.”
9,799	What does the idiom “Pay homage to” mean? A) To show respect or honor. B) To make a financial donation. C) To criticize someone publicly. D) To compete against someone. Answer: A) To show respect or honor. Example: “They gathered to pay homage to the fallen soldiers.”
9,800	What does the idiom “Pay his debt to society” mean? A) To repay a financial debt. B) To face consequences or serve punishment for a crime. C) To volunteer for charity work. D) To apologize publicly. Answer: B) To face consequences or serve punishment for a crime. Example: “He spent five years in prison and paid his debt to society.”
9,801	What does the idiom “Patient of an angel” mean? A) Someone who is very kind. B) Someone who is very stubborn. C) Someone who is extremely patient. D) Someone who is very brave. Answer: C) Someone who is extremely patient. Example: “Dealing with those kids all day requires the patience of an angel.”
9,802	What does the idiom “Pass the torch” mean? A) To end a relationship. B) To transfer responsibility or leadership to someone else. C) To avoid responsibility. D) To retire early. Answer: B) To transfer responsibility or leadership to someone else. Example: “After decades as CEO, he’s ready to pass the torch to his successor.”
9,803	What does the idiom “Pass the hat” mean? A) To collect money for a cause or contribution. B) To share responsibility. C) To end a performance. D) To start a competition. Answer: A) To collect money for a cause or contribution. Example: “We’re passing the hat to help cover his medical bills.”
9,804	What does the idiom “Pale face” mean? A) Someone who is very tan. B) A stereotype of what a North American Indian had called a white person. C) Someone who is angry. D) Someone who is shy. Answer: B) A stereotype of what a North American Indian had called a white person. Example: “The early settlers to the new world called the native American Indians ‘red skin’ and the Indians called the settlers ‘pale face.’”
9,805	What does the idiom “Parting ways” mean? A) To meet someone new. B) To agree on something. C) To argue intensely. D) To say goodbye and go separate ways. Answer: D) To say goodbye and go separate ways. Example: “After years of working together, they decided to part ways.”
9,806	What does the idiom “Parting shot” mean? A) A final comment or remark made, often negative, before leaving. B) The last photo taken at an event. C) A goodbye hug. D) A farewell gift. Answer: A) A final comment or remark made, often negative, before leaving. Example: “As he walked out, his parting shot was, ‘You’ll regret firing me!’”
9,807	What does the idiom “Park that thought” mean? A) Forget about something. B) Hold onto an idea or thought for later discussion. C) Completely dismiss an idea. D) Write down an idea immediately. Answer: B) Hold onto an idea or thought for later discussion. Example: “That’s an interesting idea, but let’s park that thought for now.”
9,808	What does the idiom “Pardon my French” mean? A) Apologizing for speaking in a foreign language. B) Asking someone to repeat themselves. C) Apologizing for interrupting someone. D) Apologizing for using offensive or inappropriate language. Answer: D) Apologizing for using offensive or inappropriate language. Example: “Pardon my French, but that was a terrible mistake!”
9,809	What does the idiom “Pale as a ghost” mean? A) Very colorful. B) Extremely pale, often from fear or illness. C) Very confident. D) Very relaxed. Answer: B) Extremely pale, often from fear or illness. Example: “He looked pale as a ghost after hearing the bad news.”
9,810	What does the idiom “Paint with a broad brush” mean? A) To give a very general or oversimplified explanation. B) To explain in detail. C) To avoid answering. D) To speak vaguely on purpose. Answer: A) To give a very general or oversimplified explanation. Example: “It’s unfair to paint all teenagers with a broad brush.”
9,811	What does the idiom “Out of touch” mean? A) Very informed. B) Overly cautious. C) Extremely fashionable. D) Unaware or disconnected from reality. Answer: D) Unaware or disconnected from reality. Example: “The CEO seems out of touch with the daily struggles of employees.”
9,812	What does the idiom “Out of this world” mean? A) Very ordinary. B) Extremely amazing or extraordinary. C) Difficult to understand. D) Overrated. Answer: B) Extremely amazing or extraordinary. Example: “The dessert at that restaurant was out of this world!”
9,813	What does the idiom “Out of date” mean? A) Current and relevant. B) Incomplete. C) No longer useful or fashionable. D) Ready for use. Answer: C) No longer useful or fashionable. Example: “Your software is out of date; you need an upgrade.”
9,814	What does the idiom “Out for the count” mean? A) Fully awake and alert. B) Knocked out or extremely tired. C) Ready for action. D) Slightly confused. Answer: B) Knocked out or extremely tired. Example: “After working a double shift, I was out for the count.”
9,815	What does the idiom “One night stand” mean? A) A single-night event or casual romantic encounter. B) A long-term relationship. C) A temporary agreement. D) An overnight business trip. Answer: A) A single-night event or casual romantic encounter. Example: “They met at a party, and it turned into a one-night stand.”
9,816	What does the idiom “On the down-low” mean? A) Public and open. B) Secretive or discreet. C) Official and documented. D) Loud and clear. Answer: B) Secretive or discreet. Example: “Let’s keep this deal on the down-low until everything is finalized.”
9,817	What does the idiom “Older than dirt” mean? A) Very young. B) Very clean. C) Extremely old. D) Very forgetful. Answer: C) Extremely old. Example: “My grandpa jokes that he’s older than dirt.”
9,818	What does the idiom “Old wine in a new bottle” mean? A) Something completely new and innovative. B) Something incredibly valuable. C) Something broken and useless. D) Something old presented as if it’s new. Answer: D) Something old presented as if it’s new. Example: “This so-called ‘new plan’ is just old wine in a new bottle.”
9,819	What does the idiom “Old as Adam” mean? A) Very young. B) Extremely old. C) Very wise. D) Very fashionable. Answer: B) Extremely old. Example: “That antique vase looks as old as Adam.”
9,820	What does the idiom “Oh snap” mean? A) An expression of surprise, excitement, or realization. B) An instruction to hurry up. C) A sign of anger. D) A way to start an argument. Answer: A) An expression of surprise, excitement, or realization. Example: “Oh snap! I completely forgot about our meeting!”
9,821	What does the idiom “Often wrong, never in doubt” mean? A) Someone is confident even when they are frequently mistaken. B) Someone is always right. C) Someone is never confident. D) Someone avoids decision-making. Answer: A) Someone is confident even when they are frequently mistaken. Example: “He delivers his opinions with authority; often wrong, never in doubt.”
9,822	What does the idiom “Of the same stripe” mean? A) Very different from each other. B) Very competitive. C) Constantly fighting. D) Sharing similar characteristics or qualities. Answer: D) Sharing similar characteristics or qualities. Example: “The two politicians are of the same stripe when it comes to policy.”
9,823	What does the idiom “Odds and ends” mean? A) Valuable items. B) Miscellaneous or small, unimportant items. C) Broken tools. D) Large furniture. Answer: B) Miscellaneous or small, unimportant items. Example: “I need a box to store these odds and ends from my desk.”
9,824	What does the idiom “Nuremberg defense” mean? A) A legal defense used to justify immoral actions by claiming obedience to orders. B) A refusal to defend oneself. C) A claim of ignorance. D) A straightforward apology. Answer: A) A legal defense used to justify immoral actions by claiming obedience to orders. Example: “The manager used the Nuremberg defense, saying he was just following corporate orders.”
9,825	What does the idiom “Nudge nudge, wink wink” mean? A) To hint at something suggestive or secretive. B) To ignore someone. C) To act aggressively. D) To fall asleep. Answer: A) To hint at something suggestive or secretive. Example: “He said he was ‘working late,’ nudge nudge, wink wink.”
9,826	What does the idiom “Now you’re cooking” mean? A) You are preparing food perfectly. B) You are making a big mistake. C) You are doing something very well or efficiently. D) You are wasting time. Answer: C) You are doing something very well or efficiently. Example: “Now you’re cooking! That’s exactly how the report should be written.”
9,827	What does the idiom “Not in my wildest dreams” mean? A) Something was exactly as expected. B) Something was beyond imagination or expectation. C) Something was very disappointing. D) Something was confusing. Answer: B) Something was beyond imagination or expectation. Example: “Not in my wildest dreams did I expect to win the lottery.”
9,828	What does the idiom “Not a hair out of place” mean? A) Someone looks perfect and well-groomed. B) Someone is very messy. C) Someone is very stressed. D) Someone is very careless. Answer: A) Someone looks perfect and well-groomed. Example: “Even after the long flight, she stepped off the plane with not a hair out of place.”
9,829	What does the idiom “No strings attached” mean? A) There are no hidden conditions or expectations. B) There are strict rules. C) There are many consequences. D) There are no opportunities. Answer: A) There are no hidden conditions or expectations. Example: “This donation comes with no strings attached.”
9,830	What does the idiom “Nerves of steel” mean? A) Being very brave and calm under pressure. B) Being overly emotional. C) Being extremely relaxed. D) Being very indecisive. Answer: A) Being very brave and calm under pressure. Example: “You need nerves of steel to be a firefighter.”
9,831	What does the idiom “No place to hang my hat” mean? A) No permanent home or place to stay. B) No responsibility. C) No free time. D) No interest in traveling. Answer: A) No permanent home or place to stay. Example: “After losing my job, I felt like I had no place to hang my hat.”
9,832	What does the idiom “Nine times out of 10” mean? A) Rarely happens. B) Almost always happens. C) Never happens. D) Happens once in a while. Answer: B) Almost always happens. Example: “Nine times out of 10, he’s late to the meeting.”
9,833	What does the idiom “Never put an apple in your rabbit” mean? A) Never make a careless mistake. B) Never trust someone completely. C) Don't do something you know you shouldn't be doing. D) Never ignore a warning. Answer: C) Don't do something you know you shouldn't be doing. Example: “That design won’t work; it’s like putting an apple in your rabbit.”
9,834	What does the idiom “Nice guys finish last” mean? A) Being kind and honest doesn’t always lead to success. B) Nice people are always rewarded. C) Nice people win races. D) Nice people are easily forgotten. Answer: A) Being kind and honest doesn’t always lead to success. Example: “In the corporate world, nice guys finish last.”
9,835	What does the idiom “Need to tighten our belts” mean? A) To prepare for physical activity. B) To reduce spending and save money. C) To make a quick decision. D) To avoid responsibilities. Answer: B) To reduce spending and save money. Example: “With rising expenses, we need to tighten our belts this year.”
9,836	What does the idiom “My spine was tingling” mean? A) I was feeling very excited or scared. B) I was feeling sleepy. C) I was feeling confused. D) I was feeling relaxed. Answer: A) I was feeling very excited or scared. Example: “When I heard that eerie sound, my spine was tingling.”
9,837	What does the idiom “My project grew cold” mean? A) My project became extremely successful. B) My project received a lot of attention. C) My project became too difficult. D) My project was paused or forgotten. Answer: D) My project was paused or forgotten. Example: “After losing funding, my project grew cold.”
9,838	What does the idiom “My mom frowns at that” mean? A) My mom is happy about that. B) My mom disapproves of that. C) My mom encourages that. D) My mom avoids discussing that. Answer: B) My mom disapproves of that. Example: “Skipping breakfast is something my mom frowns at.”
9,839	What does the idiom “My head is still spinning from that” mean? A) I am feeling very calm. B) I am feeling very tired. C) I am still feeling overwhelmed or shocked. D) I am feeling very confident. Answer: C) I am still feeling overwhelmed or shocked. Example: “That intense meeting was so chaotic; my head is still spinning from that.”
9,840	What does the idiom “Mouthful of marbles” mean? A) Speaking very clearly. B) Speaking in a way that’s hard to understand, often mumbling. C) Refusing to speak. D) Speaking too loudly. Answer: B) Speaking in a way that’s hard to understand, often mumbling. Example: “I couldn’t understand his speech; it sounded like he had a mouthful of marbles.”
9,841	What does the idiom “Morgue file” mean? A) A collection of unused or archived materials. B) A criminal investigation file. C) A secret file for blackmail. D) A file containing sensitive information. Answer: A) A collection of unused or archived materials. Example: “I found an old article in the morgue file that could help with our report.”
9,842	What does the idiom “Monday morning quarterback” mean? A) Someone who plans ahead effectively. B) Someone who criticizes or offers hindsight after an event. C) Someone who avoids responsibility. D) Someone who is always prepared. Answer: B) Someone who criticizes or offers hindsight after an event. Example: “It’s easy to be a Monday morning quarterback after the game is over.”
9,843	What does the idiom “Minor’s canary” mean? A) Something is serving as an early warning of danger or trouble. B) A symbol of happiness. C) An opportunity for growth. D) A casual observation. Answer: A) Something is serving as an early warning of danger or trouble. Example: “That glitch in the system was a minor’s canary for bigger problems to come.”
9,844	What does the idiom “Meet it head on” mean? A) To avoid confrontation. B) To address a problem directly and confidently. C) To discuss something casually. D) To ignore an issue. Answer: B) To address a problem directly and confidently. Example: “We need to meet this financial crisis head on if we want to recover.”
9,845	What does the idiom “Mind your Ps and Qs” mean? A) Pay attention to your manners or behavior. B) Avoid speaking in public. C) Stop working immediately. D) Spend money freely. Answer: A) Pay attention to your manners or behavior. Example: “You’re meeting my boss today, so mind your Ps and Qs.”
9,846	What does the idiom “Man the fort” mean? A) To abandon responsibility. B) To guard or take responsibility for something temporarily. C) To prepare for a battle. D) To leave a place unattended. Answer: B) To guard or take responsibility for something temporarily. Example: “I need to run an errand; can you man the fort while I’m gone?”
9,847	What does the idiom “Man among men” mean? A) A cowardly man. B) A man who blends into the crowd. C) A man who stands out as exceptional or honorable. D) A man who is always confused. Answer: C) A man who stands out as exceptional or honorable. Example: “In times of crisis, he proved to be a man among men.”
9,848	What does the idiom “Logrolling” mean? A) Making mutual political agreements or deals. B) Ignoring responsibilities. C) Spending money recklessly. D) Working alone. Answer: A) Making mutual political agreements or deals. Example: “The senators engaged in logrolling to pass each other’s bills.”
9,849	What does the idiom “Loaded for bear” mean? A) Fully prepared for a difficult task or confrontation. B) Feeling very tired. C) Avoiding confrontation. D) Feeling nervous. Answer: A) Fully prepared for a difficult task or confrontation. Example: “He walked into the meeting loaded for bear.”
9,850	What does the idiom “Made in the shade” mean? A) Facing many obstacles. B) Having an easy, comfortable situation. C) Being uncertain about the future. D) Being very confused. Answer: B) Having an easy, comfortable situation. Example: “With his new job and salary, he’s made in the shade.”
9,851	What does the idiom “Living rent-free in someone’s head” mean? A) Someone cannot stop thinking about a person or thing. B) Someone is calm and focused. C) Someone is daydreaming often. D) Someone avoids deep thinking. Answer: A) Someone cannot stop thinking about a person or thing. Example: “Ever since their fight, she’s been living rent-free in his head.”
9,852	What does the idiom “Living paycheck to paycheck” mean? A) Earning more than enough money. B) Struggling financially, with just enough money to cover expenses. C) Living without financial worries. D) Saving a large portion of income. Answer: B) Struggling financially, with just enough money to cover expenses. Example: “Many people are living paycheck to paycheck these days.”
9,853	What does the idiom “Little strokes fell great oaks” mean? A) Small efforts, when consistent, can achieve great things. B) Great strength can achieve anything. C) Small mistakes lead to failure. D) Random effort achieves nothing. Answer: A) Small efforts, when consistent, can achieve great things. Example: “He kept working little by little; little strokes fell great oaks.”
9,854	What does the idiom “Liquid courage” mean? A) Alcohol consumed to build confidence or reduce fear. B) A sports drink for energy. C) A secret weapon. D) A relaxing beverage. Answer: A) Alcohol consumed to build confidence or reduce fear. Example: “He had a bit of liquid courage before giving his speech.”
9,855	What does the idiom “Lily-livered” mean? A) Very brave. B) Very cowardly. C) Very energetic. D) Very confused. Answer: B) Very cowardly. Example: “The villain in the movie was a lily-livered coward.”
9,856	What does the idiom “Like there’s no tomorrow” mean? A) To do something slowly and cautiously. B) To do something with great urgency or enthusiasm. C) To avoid doing something altogether. D) To regret doing something. Answer: B) To do something with great urgency or enthusiasm. Example: “They were dancing like there’s no tomorrow at the party.”
9,857	What does the idiom “Like your life depends on it” mean? A) To do something with great effort or determination. B) To do something casually. C) To give up halfway through. D) To completely avoid effort. Answer: A) To do something with great effort or determination. Example: “He was running like his life depended on it.”
9,858	What does the idiom “Like shelling peas” mean? A) Something extremely easy to do. B) Something very confusing. C) Something time-consuming. D) Something expensive. Answer: A) Something extremely easy to do. Example: “Fixing the engine was like shelling peas for him.”
9,859	What does the idiom “Like a dog with a bone” mean? A) Someone who is easily distracted. B) Someone who is persistent and won’t give up. C) Someone who avoids responsibility. D) Someone who is very relaxed. Answer: B) Someone who is persistent and won’t give up. Example: “He’s like a dog with a bone when it comes to solving problems.”
9,860	What does the idiom “Lighten someone’s purse” mean? A) To give someone more money. B) To reduce someone’s financial burden. C) To spend or take someone’s money. D) To donate to charity. Answer: C) To spend or take someone’s money. Example: “That shopping spree really lightened his purse.”
9,861	What does the idiom “Lift my spirits” mean? A) To make someone feel happier or more positive. B) To make someone angry. C) To confuse someone. D) To avoid someone. Answer: A) To make someone feel happier or more positive. Example: “Your kind words really lifted my spirits today.”
9,862	What does the idiom “Libel chill” mean? A) A relaxing vacation. B) A humorous mistake in writing. C) A moment of peace during an argument. D) The fear of being sued for defamation. Answer: D) The fear of being sued for defamation. Example: “Journalists sometimes avoid certain topics due to libel chill.”
9,863	What does the idiom “Let’s not, and say we did” mean? A) To enthusiastically agree to do something. B) To sarcastically refuse to do something while pretending you did. C) To avoid taking responsibility. D) To ignore someone’s suggestion. Answer: B) To sarcastically refuse to do something while pretending you did. Example: “Do you want to run 10 miles today? Let’s not, and say we did.”
9,864	What does the idiom “Let your gray cells figure it out” mean? A) To rely on someone else for the answer. B) To use your intelligence or brainpower to solve a problem. C) To wait for someone to tell you the answer. D) To ignore the problem entirely. Answer: B) To use your intelligence or brainpower to solve a problem. Example: “The puzzle is tricky, but let your gray cells figure it out.”
9,865	What does the idiom “Let me work my magic” mean? A) To attempt something with uncertainty. B) To refuse to help. C) To ignore a problem. D) To confidently handle a task or problem. Answer: D) To confidently handle a task or problem. Example: “The cake looks terrible; let me work my magic and fix it.”
9,866	What does the idiom “Let it slide” mean? A) To ignore or overlook a mistake or problem. B) To address an issue aggressively. C) To stop working on something. D) To increase focus on a problem. Answer: A) To ignore or overlook a mistake or problem. Example: “He forgot my birthday, but I decided to let it slide.”
9,867	What does the idiom “Let him down gently” mean? A) To reject or disappoint someone in a kind way. B) To ignore someone completely. C) To embarrass someone publicly. D) To encourage someone. Answer: A) To reject or disappoint someone in a kind way. Example: “She let him down gently after he asked her out.”
9,868	What does the idiom “Lend an ear” mean? A) To avoid listening. B) To listen carefully or give someone attention. C) To interrupt someone. D) To criticize someone. Answer: B) To listen carefully or give someone attention. Example: “Could you lend an ear? I need to talk to someone.”
9,869	What does the idiom “Legal beagle” mean? A) A careless lawyer. B) A dishonest lawyer. C) A highly skilled lawyer. D) A lazy lawyer. Answer: C) A highly skilled lawyer. Example: “We hired a legal beagle to handle the company’s lawsuit.”
9,870	What does the idiom “Lay to rest” mean? A) To bury someone who has died. B) To finish or resolve something. C) To take a long nap. D) To avoid an issue. Answer: B) To finish or resolve something. Example: “Let’s lay this argument to rest once and for all.”
9,871	What does the idiom “Lay down the groundwork” mean? A) To ignore basic preparation. B) To start with a weak foundation. C) To create the basic foundation or preparation for something. D) To finish a project early. Answer: C) To create the basic foundation or preparation for something. Example: “We need to lay down the groundwork before launching the product.”
9,872	What does the idiom “Last nail in the coffin” mean? A) The final event that causes failure or destruction. B) A great success. C) A new beginning. D) A lucky break. Answer: A) The final event that causes failure or destruction. Example: “The scandal was the last nail in the coffin for his political career.”
9,873	What does the idiom “Know someone in the biblical sense” mean? A) To be good friends with someone. B) To have a romantic or sexual relationship with someone. C) To share a secret with someone. D) To argue with someone frequently. Answer: B) To have a romantic or sexual relationship with someone. Example: “They say he knew her in the biblical sense before they got married.”
9,874	What does the idiom “Knocked him for a loop” mean? A) Surprised or shocked someone greatly. B) Ignored someone completely. C) Made someone very happy. D) Gave someone an advantage. Answer: A) Surprised or shocked someone greatly. Example: “The sudden resignation of the CEO knocked everyone for a loop.”
9,875	What does the idiom “King of the jungle” mean? A) Someone who is scared of everything. B) Someone who is dominant or in control. C) Someone who is quiet and reserved. D) Someone who is lost. Answer: B) Someone who is dominant or in control. Example: “The lion, often called the king of the jungle, rules over the animal kingdom.”
9,876	What does the idiom “King of the castle” mean? A) Someone who feels powerful or in control in their environment. B) Someone who avoids responsibility. C) Someone who is constantly worried. D) Someone who is overly cautious. Answer: A) Someone who feels powerful or in control in their environment. Example: “When his parents are away, he feels like the king of the castle.”
9,877	What does the idiom “King of the beast” mean? A) The bravest or strongest animal, typically a lion. B) The weakest animal in the group. C) A domesticated animal. D) A shy animal. Answer: A) The bravest or strongest animal, typically a lion. Example: “The lion is often referred to as the king of the beasts.”
9,878	What does the idiom “Kernel of truth” mean? A) A completely false statement. B) A small but important part of the truth. C) A hidden joke. D) A complicated idea. Answer: B) A small but important part of the truth. Example: “His wild story might have a kernel of truth, but most of it sounds exaggerated.”
9,879	What does the idiom “Kill the fatted calf” mean? A) To prepare a lavish celebration. B) To make a small sacrifice. C) To avoid spending money. D) To stop a celebration early. Answer: A) To prepare a lavish celebration. Example: “When their son returned home after years abroad, they killed the fatted calf.”
9,880	What does the idiom “Kick up a fuss” mean? A) To create a scene or complain loudly. B) To avoid confrontation. C) To stay silent. D) To relax and let go. Answer: A) To create a scene or complain loudly. Example: “She kicked up a fuss when the waiter brought her the wrong order.”
9,881	What does the idiom “Keep your eyes on the prize” mean? A) To focus on distractions. B) To remain focused on a goal or objective. C) To ignore competition. D) To stop trying. Answer: B) To remain focused on a goal or objective. Example: “No matter the challenges, keep your eyes on the prize and stay motivated.”
9,882	What does the idiom “Keep up with the times” mean? A) To stay updated with current trends or developments. B) To avoid modern technology. C) To travel frequently. D) To focus on history. Answer: A) To stay updated with current trends or developments. Example: “You have to keep up with the times if you want your business to succeed.”
9,883	What does the idiom “Keep the show on the road” mean? A) To cancel an event. B) To continue an activity or operation smoothly despite difficulties. C) To start over completely. D) To take a long break. Answer: B) To continue an activity or operation smoothly despite difficulties. Example: “Even after the lead actor fell ill, they managed to keep the show on the road.”
9,884	What does the idiom “Keep the lights on” mean? A) To stay awake all night. B) To stop working. C) To host a party. D) To maintain financial stability or operations. Answer: D) To maintain financial stability or operations. Example: “We need to bring in more clients to keep the lights on.”
9,885	What does the idiom “Keep the kettle on” mean? A) Stay prepared for visitors. B) Stop cooking. C) Relax immediately. D) Start cleaning. Answer: A) Stay prepared for visitors. Example: “We might have guests soon, so keep the kettle on.”
9,886	What does the idiom “Just give the word” mean? A) Give a signal to start something. B) Give a warning. C) Stay silent. D) Stop immediately. Answer: A) Give a signal to start something. Example: “We’re ready to start; just give the word.”
9,887	What does the idiom “Jumping the shark” mean? A) To reach peak popularity. B) To do something ridiculous to maintain interest. C) To completely fail at something. D) To succeed unexpectedly. Answer: B) To do something ridiculous to maintain interest. Example: “The show started jumping the shark when they introduced aliens.”
9,888	What does the idiom “Jumped the gun” mean? A) Acted too quickly without thinking. B) Followed instructions perfectly. C) Ignored an important step. D) Waited patiently. Answer: A) Acted too quickly without thinking. Example: “He jumped the gun by announcing the deal before it was finalized.”
9,889	What does the idiom “Jump through hoops” mean? A) To avoid obstacles. B) To go through great effort to achieve something. C) To give up easily. D) To have fun casually. Answer: B) To go through great effort to achieve something. Example: “I had to jump through hoops to get my visa approved.”
9,890	What does the idiom “Jump the queue” mean? A) To wait patiently. B) To avoid responsibility. C) To skip ahead in a line. D) To follow the rules. Answer: C) To skip ahead in a line. Example: “It’s so rude when people jump the queue at the airport.”
9,891	What does the idiom “Jump her bones” mean? A) To start an argument with someone. B) To have a passionate and romantic encounter with someone. C) To avoid someone. D) To prank someone. Answer: B) To have a passionate and romantic encounter with someone. Example: “He couldn’t stop staring at her; he clearly wanted to jump her bones.”
9,892	What does the idiom “I can feel it in my bones” mean? A) A literal sensation in one’s bones. B) A logical and well-reasoned conclusion. C) A medical condition related to bones. D) A strong instinct or gut feeling about something. Answer: D) A strong instinct or gut feeling about something. Example: “The sky looks dark, and the air feels heavy—I can feel it in my bones that a storm is coming.”
9,893	What does the idiom “John Q Public” mean? A) A famous public figure. B) A government official. C) A common, average person. D) A secret agent. Answer: C) A common, average person. Example: “The new policy is designed to benefit John Q Public.”
9,894	What does the idiom “It’s within spitting distance” mean? A) It’s very far away. B) It’s very close. C) It’s unreachable. D) It’s invisible. Answer: B) It’s very close. Example: “The restaurant is within spitting distance of the hotel.”
9,895	What does the idiom “It’s time to take out the trash” mean? A) It’s time to clean the house. B) It’s time to leave the house. C) It’s time to eliminate problems or unwanted elements. D) It’s time to relax. Answer: C) It’s time to eliminate problems or unwanted elements. Example: “The company is facing corruption; it’s time to take out the trash.”
9,896	What does the idiom “It’s time to make history” mean? A) It’s time to stop working. B) It’s time to do something memorable or significant. C) It’s time to rewrite history. D) It’s time to reflect on the past. Answer: B) It’s time to do something memorable or significant. Example: “With this new technology, it’s time to make history.”
9,897	What does the idiom “It’s time for us to shift gears” mean? A) It’s time to change direction or strategy. B) It’s time to take a break. C) It’s time to quit. D) It’s time to relax. Answer: A) It’s time to change direction or strategy. Example: “We’ve been stuck on this issue for hours; it’s time for us to shift gears.”
9,898	What does the idiom “It’s taking its toll” mean? A) It’s showing positive results. B) It’s causing harm or damage over time. C) It’s being ignored. D) It’s creating excitement. Answer: B) It’s causing harm or damage over time. Example: “The stress of the job is taking its toll on his health.”
9,899	What does the idiom “It’s running rampant” mean? A) Something is spreading uncontrollably. B) Something is being ignored. C) Something is slowly fading. D) Something is under control. Answer: A) Something is spreading uncontrollably. Example: “Misinformation is running rampant on social media.”
9,900	What does the idiom “It’s like white on rice” mean? A) Something very hard to find. B) Something very noticeable. C) Something extremely close or inseparable. D) Something very fragile. Answer: C) Something extremely close or inseparable. Example: “The security guard stayed with the celebrity like white on rice.”