1.
It is raining cats and dogs
means ...
Correct Answer
A. It is raining very hard
Explanation
The phrase "it is raining cats and dogs" is an idiomatic expression that means it is raining very hard. It is not meant to be taken literally, but rather to convey the intensity of the rainfall.
2.
Water off a duck's back
means ...
Correct Answer
B. Something does not upset you
Explanation
The phrase "water off a duck's back" is used to convey that something does not upset or bother a person. Just like water slides off a duck's feathers without affecting it, this expression implies that the person remains unaffected by negative comments, criticism, or difficult situations. They have a resilient and unaffected attitude, allowing them to brush off any troubles or negativity that comes their way.
3.
A night owl
means ...
Correct Answer
C. Someone likes to stay up and do things late at night
Explanation
The term "a night owl" refers to a person who prefers to stay awake and engage in activities during the late hours of the night. This individual enjoys being active and productive during nighttime hours, as opposed to the typical sleep schedule of most people.
4.
A whale of a time
means ...
Correct Answer
A. A great time
Explanation
The phrase "a whale of a time" is an idiomatic expression that means having a great time or enjoying oneself immensely. It is often used to describe a very enjoyable and memorable experience or event.
5.
A wolf in sheep's clothing
means ...
Correct Answer
B. Someone who seems to be a good person but is really a bad person
Explanation
The phrase "a wolf in sheep's clothing" is a metaphor used to describe someone who appears to be harmless or kind but is actually deceitful or malicious. This person may pretend to be good-natured or trustworthy, but their true intentions are hidden and they may cause harm or deceive others. The phrase emphasizes the idea of someone disguising their true nature, just like a wolf disguising itself by wearing the skin of a sheep.
6.
Can of worms
means ...
Correct Answer
C. Getting involved in something could lead to problems
Explanation
The phrase "can of worms" is used to describe a situation that may initially seem harmless or simple, but has the potential to become complicated and problematic if one gets involved. It implies that opening up or delving into this situation could lead to a series of unforeseen difficulties and complications.
7.
Chickens come home to roost
means ...
Correct Answer
A. Someone is suffering the unpleasant consequences of their bad actions in the past
Explanation
The phrase "chickens come home to roost" means that someone is experiencing the negative outcomes or repercussions of their past bad actions. It suggests that the consequences of one's actions eventually catch up with them, similar to how chickens return to their roosting place at the end of the day. This phrase implies that individuals cannot escape the consequences of their past actions and must face the unpleasant outcomes they have caused.
8.
Drink like a fish
means ...
Correct Answer
B. Drink a lot of alcohol
Explanation
The phrase "drink like a fish" is commonly used to describe someone who consumes alcohol excessively or in large quantities. It implies that the person drinks alcohol in a manner similar to how a fish consumes water, suggesting a high level of alcohol consumption. This phrase does not indicate anything about suffering consequences or having good eyesight, but specifically refers to excessive drinking.
9.
Eyes like a hawk
means ...
Correct Answer
C. Very good eyesight and notice everything
Explanation
The phrase "eyes like a hawk" is a metaphorical expression used to describe someone who has exceptional vision and is highly observant. It implies that the person can see things in great detail and is able to notice even the smallest of details. This phrase is often used to compliment someone's ability to be attentive and perceptive in their surroundings.
10.
Kill two birds with one stone
means ...
Correct Answer
A. Achieve two things with the one action
Explanation
The phrase "kill two birds with one stone" means to accomplish two objectives or tasks with a single action. It implies efficiency and effectiveness in achieving multiple goals simultaneously, saving time and effort. This idiom highlights the idea of maximizing productivity and achieving multiple outcomes with minimal resources or actions.
11.
Let the cat out of the bag
means ...
Correct Answer
B. Let someone know a secret
Explanation
The phrase "let the cat out of the bag" means to reveal or disclose a secret to someone. It implies that someone unintentionally or accidentally reveals information that was supposed to be kept confidential. The phrase is often used when someone unknowingly exposes a secret or divulges information that was meant to be kept hidden.
12.
Fish out of water
means ...
Correct Answer
C. You're surrounded by people who are different to you, and it's making you feel a little uncomfortable
Explanation
The phrase "fish out of water" is used to describe a situation where someone feels uncomfortable or out of place because they are surrounded by people who are different from them. It implies a sense of unease or unfamiliarity in a particular environment or social setting.
13.
Quiet as a mouse
means ...
Correct Answer
A. Very quiet
Explanation
"Quiet as a mouse" is an idiomatic expression used to describe someone or something that is extremely quiet. It implies that the person or thing being referred to is as quiet as a mouse, which is known for its silent movements. The phrase is often used to emphasize the absence of noise or disturbance, indicating a state of tranquility or stillness.
14.
Sick as a dog
means ...
Correct Answer
B. Very sick
Explanation
The phrase "sick as a dog" is an idiomatic expression used to convey that someone is extremely ill. It emphasizes the severity of the sickness by comparing it to the state of a dog when it is unwell. Therefore, the correct answer is "very sick".
15.
Talk turkey
means ...
Correct Answer
C. Discuss something seriously, usually to do with business or money
Explanation
"Talk turkey" is an idiomatic expression that means to discuss something seriously, usually related to business or money. It implies having a straightforward and direct conversation, without any unnecessary pleasantries or beating around the bush. The phrase originated from the tradition of Thanksgiving, where the main dish is turkey, symbolizing a serious and important meal. Therefore, "talk turkey" suggests getting down to the important and practical aspects of a discussion or negotiation.
16.
Lion's share
means ...
Correct Answer
A. The biggest share or portion of something
Explanation
The phrase "lion's share" is used to describe the largest or biggest portion of something. It is derived from the idea that a lion, being a strong and dominant animal, would take the largest share of a kill in a hunting scenario. Therefore, when someone refers to the "lion's share" of something, they are emphasizing that it is the majority or biggest part of it.
17.
The rate race
means ...
Correct Answer
B. Highly competitive and stressful world of work and business
Explanation
The phrase "the rate race" refers to the highly competitive and stressful world of work and business. It implies a constant pursuit of success and advancement, often at the expense of personal well-being and fulfillment. In this context, individuals are caught up in a fast-paced environment where they are constantly striving to outperform their peers and achieve professional success. This phrase captures the intense pressure and competitiveness that characterizes the modern work culture.