1.
My friend is ______________ right now. He's having trouble _______________.
Correct Answer
C. Between jobs ... making ends meet
Explanation
"Between jobs" is a phrase used to describe someone who is currently unemployed or in transition from one job to another.
"Making ends meet" refers to the challenge of earning enough money to cover one's basic expenses.
So the complete sentence is:
My friend is between jobs right now. He's having trouble making ends meet.
2.
He _____________ all the time because calculus is _______________ to him. But since participation is 30% of the overall grade, he's really ______________.
Correct Answer
D. Cuts class ... child's play ... out of his mind
Explanation
The correct answer suggests that the person cuts class all the time because calculus is easy to him. However, since participation is a significant portion of the overall grade, he is really losing his mind or not thinking clearly.
3.
That new employee is so _______________. When the manager's around he ___________________, but as soon as the manager leaves, he starts ________________.
Correct Answer
A. Two-faced ... pulls his weight ... running behind
Explanation
The correct answer is "two-faced ... pulls his weight ... running behind". This answer suggests that the new employee is deceitful or insincere ("two-faced"), pretending to work hard and contribute when the manager is present ("pulls his weight"), but slacks off or falls behind when the manager is not around ("running behind"). This explanation aligns with the given phrases and their meanings.
4.
Now that there is a new restaurant opening across the street, we have to make sure that our restaurant is competitive. We need to ________________ and __________________.
Correct Answer
C. Dig in our heels ... give it our best shot
Explanation
To ensure that our restaurant remains competitive in light of the new restaurant opening across the street, we must "dig in our heels" and "give it our best shot." This means that we need to stand firm and be determined in our efforts, putting forth our utmost effort to succeed. We cannot afford to give up or be complacent; instead, we must be proactive and work hard to maintain our competitiveness in the face of this new competition.
5.
My friend is pregnant, but she is going to work for at least 6 months. Every day, she wakes up _________________, and unfortunately, _______________ on her work team project.
Correct Answer
B. Not feeling so hot ... the ball is in her court
6.
What is the definition?pan out
Correct Answer
B. To work out
Explanation
The phrase "pan out" means to work out or to be successful. It refers to the outcome or result of a situation or plan. It implies that something has been resolved or achieved in a satisfactory way.
7.
sell for a song
Correct Answer
C. To give a product for little or no money
Explanation
The phrase "sell for a song" means to give a product for little or no money. This implies that the item being sold is of little value or importance, and can be easily obtained without much cost. It suggests a situation where the seller is willing to part with the product for a very low price or even for free.
8.
icing on the cake
Correct Answer
B. The best part
Explanation
"Icing on the cake" is a phrase used to describe something that enhances or adds to an already good situation or experience. In this context, "the best part" is the most suitable explanation for the phrase because it reflects the idea that the icing on a cake is often considered the most enjoyable and delicious part. It signifies that something is an additional bonus or enhancement to an already positive situation.
9.
get off someone's back
Correct Answer
A. Stop bothering someone
Explanation
The phrase "get off someone's back" means to stop bothering or criticizing someone. It implies giving someone space and not constantly nagging or pressuring them. Therefore, the correct answer is "stop bothering someone."
10.
let someone go
Correct Answer
C. To fire someone
Explanation
To "let someone go" typically means to terminate someone's employment, or in simpler terms, to fire them. This phrase is commonly used in the context of letting an employee go from their job or dismissing them from their position. It implies that the person is being released or removed from their current employment situation.
11.
Choose the best idioms.In this apartment, I can hear people upstairs so easily! Every day, they wake up __________________ and start playing loud music. It really gets me ______________________.
Correct Answer
B. Bright and early ... bent out of shape
Explanation
The correct answer is "bright and early... bent out of shape". This idiomatic expression means that the people upstairs wake up very early in the morning and it bothers the speaker. "Bent out of shape" is used to describe the speaker's annoyance or irritation caused by the loud music.
12.
I need to review the contract on my rental property, but it's so long that I ________________________________.
Correct Answer
C. Can't make heads or tails of it
Explanation
The correct answer is "can't make heads or tails of it." This phrase means that the person is unable to understand or make sense of the lengthy contract. It implies that the contract is confusing or difficult to comprehend, which is why the person is struggling to review it.
13.
If your roommate is keeping you awake at night, tell her that you have to _____________________. Give her a long ____________________ about how hard you have to study.
Correct Answer
B. Hit the books ... guilt trip
Explanation
If your roommate is keeping you awake at night, telling her that you have to "hit the books" means that you have to study intensively. By giving her a "guilt trip" about how hard you have to study, you are trying to make her feel guilty for disturbing your sleep and prioritize your need for quietness.
14.
Wow, she must be very rich. I think she ___________________ thousands of dollars a year just on shoes.
Correct Answer
A. Shells out
Explanation
The phrase "shells out" means to spend or pay a large amount of money. In this context, the speaker is implying that the person being discussed spends a significant amount of money on shoes, suggesting that she must be very wealthy.
15.
You should always read a contract carefully and try to __________________________ to understand the fine details.
Correct Answer
C. Read between the lines
Explanation
When reading a contract, it is important to carefully examine the text and try to understand the hidden or implied meanings. This involves looking beyond the obvious and interpreting the finer details or hidden intentions of the contract. By reading between the lines, one can gain a deeper understanding of the contract and avoid any potential pitfalls or misunderstandings.
16.
Which of these idioms is about food?
Correct Answer
D. Pig out
Explanation
The idiom "pig out" is about food. It means to eat a large amount of food, usually in a greedy or indulgent manner. This idiom is derived from the behavior of pigs, which are known to eat voraciously and without restraint. So, "pig out" is the correct answer as it directly relates to food consumption.
17.
Which of these idioms is about having responsibilities?
Correct Answer
C. Have a lot on one's plate
Explanation
The idiom "have a lot on one's plate" is about having responsibilities. It means being busy or having a lot of tasks or obligations to deal with. This phrase is often used to describe someone who has a heavy workload or many commitments that they need to manage.
18.
If someone you know kicks the bucket, how might you feel?
Correct Answer
C. Blue
19.
If you are trying not to lose your head in a stressful situation, you might also be trying not to ...
Correct Answer
A. Mess up
Explanation
In a stressful situation, one might try not to "mess up" in order to maintain composure and avoid making mistakes or errors. This phrase implies the importance of staying calm and focused in order to handle the situation effectively and prevent any negative consequences.
20.
Which idiom is similar to pull the plug?
Correct Answer
B. Throw in the towel
Explanation
The idiom "throw in the towel" is similar to "pull the plug" because both phrases imply giving up or quitting. "Throw in the towel" originates from boxing, where a boxer's coach would throw a towel into the ring to signal surrender. Similarly, "pull the plug" refers to stopping or ending something abruptly, like pulling the plug on a machine or life support. Both idioms convey the idea of giving up or ending something.
21.
A sarcastic person might be called a ...
Correct Answer
C. Wise guy
Explanation
A sarcastic person might be called a "wise guy" because this term refers to someone who is clever and quick-witted in their remarks, often using sarcasm or humor to make witty comments. The term "wise guy" implies that the person is knowledgeable and cunning in their sarcastic remarks, often using their wit to mock or tease others.
22.
Don't worry about our boss. He seems angry, but he won't _________________. He's __________________.
Correct Answer
D. Blow his top ... all bark and no bite
Explanation
This answer suggests that the boss may appear angry or upset, but he will not actually act on his anger or become aggressive. He is all talk and no action, just making a lot of noise without any real consequences.
23.
My younger sister just started college. She thinks she can _______________ every night and still make straight A's. I tell her to ______________!
Correct Answer
D. Get plastered ... dream on
Explanation
The correct answer is "get plastered ... dream on." The phrase "get plastered" means to get drunk, which is not conducive to academic success. The phrase "dream on" is used to express disbelief or skepticism towards someone's unrealistic expectations. Therefore, the correct answer suggests that the sister's belief of being able to get drunk every night and still achieve straight A's is unrealistic and unlikely to happen.
24.
My friend is always ________________ to study for exams. But he __________________ when he goes out to dance, he looks great!
Correct Answer
B. Burning the midnight oil ... cleans up well
Explanation
The phrase "burning the midnight oil" means studying or working late into the night. The second part of the sentence suggests that despite his dedication to studying, when he goes out to dance, he looks great. This implies that he is able to balance his academic responsibilities with his social life and still maintain a good appearance. Therefore, the phrase "burning the midnight oil ... cleans up well" is the correct answer.
25.
The movie was about a man who worked hard to ________________ of a big company. He _______________ and became a great success. But at the end, the company got into trouble with the federal government, and they made him the _______________.
Correct Answer
B. Get his foot in the door ... hit the ground running ... fall guy
Explanation
The movie was about a man who worked hard to get his foot in the door of a big company. He hit the ground running and became a great success. But at the end, the company got into trouble with the federal government, and they made him the fall guy.
26.
Maybe you think that girl is beautiful, but she ________________ just because she thinks I'm poor. I think you will ____________________ if you choose to date her.
Correct Answer
A. Gives me the cold shoulder ... live to regret the decision
Explanation
The correct answer is "gives me the cold shoulder ... live to regret the decision." This means that the girl ignores or avoids the person because she thinks they are poor. The speaker believes that if someone chooses to date her despite her behavior, they will eventually regret their decision.
27.
I started my own business last year, and I think I am beginning to _______________ in my business market.
Correct Answer
A. Carve out a niche
Explanation
The phrase "carve out a niche" means to establish a unique and specialized position in the market. Starting a new business can be challenging, but if the person feels that they are beginning to "carve out a niche," it suggests that they are successfully creating a distinct and profitable space for themselves in their business market.
28.
I took a _______________ in business development, and it seemed very hard. ________________ you for succeeding with your business!
Correct Answer
B. Crash course ... kudos to
Explanation
The phrase "crash course" means a quick and intensive course or training. In this context, the person took a crash course in business development, which suggests that they learned a lot in a short amount of time. The phrase "kudos to" is used to give praise or recognition to someone for their achievements. Therefore, the correct answer "crash course ... kudos to" implies that despite the difficulty of the business development course, the person succeeded and deserves praise for their accomplishment.
29.
It's definitely not _______________ to own your own business. Many people have start-up ideas, but they ___________________.
Correct Answer
C. A snap ... drop like flies
Explanation
Owning your own business is definitely not as easy as it seems. Many people have start-up ideas, but they often fail or give up quickly. The phrase "a snap" means something that is easy or effortless, while "drop like flies" means to fail or quit in large numbers. Therefore, the correct answer suggests that starting a business is not easy and many people fail or quit in the process.
30.
What is the definition of each idiom?rip off
Correct Answer
A. Something that is cheap or to chat someone
31.
Run around like a chicken with its head cut off
Correct Answer
C. To be so busy that you cannot think
Explanation
The phrase "run around like a chicken with its head cut off" is an idiomatic expression that means to be extremely busy or frantic, to the point where one cannot think clearly or focus. It suggests a sense of chaos and disorganization in one's actions, similar to how a chicken would run aimlessly after having its head severed. This phrase does not refer to running quickly or participating in a marathon, nor does it imply lacking intelligence or being silly.
32.
Take it easy
Correct Answer
B. Relax
Explanation
The phrase "take it easy" is often used to advise someone to relax or not to worry too much. It suggests that the person should not be stressed or anxious and should instead try to remain calm and composed. Therefore, the correct answer "relax" aligns with the meaning of the given phrase.
33.
Make a killing
Correct Answer
D. To make a lot of money
Explanation
The phrase "make a killing" is an idiom that means to make a large amount of money or to achieve great financial success. It does not refer to killing animals or humans, nor does it relate to making a good first impression. The correct answer is "to make a lot of money."
34.
Keep an open mind
Correct Answer
B. To be aware of different ideas or possibilities
Explanation
The phrase "Keep an open mind" suggests the importance of being receptive to new ideas and possibilities. By remaining open-minded, one can broaden their perspective and consider alternative viewpoints. This mindset encourages exploration, learning, and growth, as it allows for the consideration of different ideas and possibilities that may lead to new insights and opportunities. It promotes flexibility and adaptability, enabling individuals to embrace change and make informed decisions based on a wider range of options.
35.
I like your friend, but I don't want to date him. He is so ______________. I'm sorry, but people who cannot make decisions ________________.
Correct Answer
A. Wishy-washy ... turn me off
Explanation
The speaker likes their friend but does not want to date them because they find their friend to be wishy-washy. This means that the friend is indecisive or unable to make firm decisions. The speaker is turned off by this trait and therefore does not want to pursue a romantic relationship with them.
36.
O.K. I know that no one wants to say it, but we need to talk about ________________________. The new CEO is going to ___________________, and it's likely that many of our employees will look for work at other companies.
Correct Answer
C. The elepHant in the room ... lay down the law
Explanation
The correct answer is "the elephant in the room ... lay down the law." In this context, "the elephant in the room" refers to an important or sensitive issue that everyone is aware of but avoids discussing. The phrase "lay down the law" means to establish rules or assert authority. Therefore, the explanation suggests that there is a significant issue that needs to be addressed, and the new CEO will likely assert their authority and make changes that may lead employees to seek employment elsewhere.
37.
If you are going to date my brother, please _________________. He hasn't been very lucky with love, and I don't want you to ________________.
Correct Answer
B. Look before you leap ... break his heart
Explanation
The correct answer is "look before you leap ... break his heart." This phrase suggests that before entering into a relationship with the person's brother, the person should carefully consider the potential consequences and make sure they are truly interested and committed. The second part of the sentence, "break his heart," implies that the brother has experienced heartbreak in the past, and the person does not want the same thing to happen again.
38.
I am so _________________ of my manager. She is such a ________________, but she never does any work herself. I wish I could _____________________.
Correct Answer
D. Sick and tired ... slave driver ... put her in her place
Explanation
The correct answer is "sick and tired ... slave driver ... put her in her place". This answer accurately reflects the sentiment of being fed up with the manager's behavior and describes her as someone who puts excessive pressure on others. The phrase "put her in her place" suggests a desire to assert oneself and confront the manager about her actions.
39.
So you are trying to decide if you should take $5,000 from your parents or get your own job? It's a _____________! ___________________.
Correct Answer
A. No brainer ... don't look a gift horse in the mouth
Explanation
Taking $5,000 from your parents instead of getting a job is a no brainer because it is an easy and obvious decision. It is like receiving a gift horse, and it would be ungrateful to scrutinize or question the value of the gift.
40.
I am excited about our business idea. As partners, I think we have a chance to ___________________.Me too. We'll have to _________________ to get our business license and other credentials, but that __________________.
Correct Answer
C. Strike it rich ... jump through hoops ... comes with the territory
Explanation
The phrase "strike it rich" means to become very wealthy or successful. The phrase "jump through hoops" means to go through a lot of difficult or complicated tasks or requirements. The expression "comes with the territory" means that it is a normal or expected part of a particular situation. Therefore, the correct answer suggests that while they have a chance to become successful and wealthy with their business idea, they will have to go through a lot of difficult tasks and requirements, which is a normal part of starting a business.
41.
We need to consider our business investors. Remember Todd Evans? I'm worried about him because he seems like a __________________. I think he's not __________________, and he's worried about losing his investment.
Correct Answer
A. Nervous wreck ... made of money
Explanation
Todd Evans is being described as a "nervous wreck" which suggests that he is extremely anxious or stressed. The phrase "made of money" implies that he is wealthy or financially secure. The explanation implies that Todd is worried about losing his investment, indicating that his financial situation is a significant concern for him.
42.
It's true that he's a nervous investor. Our business has some money issues. We're __________________ yet. Honestly, I think we could __________________ if we do not make a lot of money at first.
Correct Answer
B. Not out of the woods ... pull the wool over his eyes
Explanation
The given correct answer "not out of the woods ... pull the wool over his eyes" is appropriate because it accurately completes the sentence and conveys the meaning intended. The phrase "not out of the woods" means that the business still has some financial difficulties or challenges to overcome. The phrase "pull the wool over his eyes" means to deceive or trick someone. Therefore, the combination of these phrases suggests that despite being aware of the money issues, the nervous investor may still be deceived or misled about the true extent of the problem.
43.
Choose the best definition for each idiom.Not sleep a wink.
Correct Answer
A. To get no sleep
Explanation
The idiom "not sleep a wink" means to not get any sleep at all. It implies that the person did not close their eyes or rest at all during the night. Therefore, the correct definition for this idiom is "to get no sleep".
44.
Step up to the plate
Correct Answer
C. To accept a task
Explanation
The phrase "step up to the plate" is a baseball idiom that means to take on a responsibility or challenge. It originated from the act of a batter stepping forward to the home plate to take their turn at bat. In a broader sense, it can be used to describe someone willingly accepting a task or responsibility, demonstrating their willingness to take action and face a challenge head-on.
45.
All in a day's work
Correct Answer
A. Normal stuff, the usual
Explanation
The phrase "normal stuff, the usual" suggests that the activities or tasks being referred to are typical or routine. It implies that the person is accustomed to performing these tasks on a regular basis without any significant challenges or surprises. The other options provided, such as "nervousness" and "the territorial boundary," do not convey the same meaning as "normal stuff, the usual." Therefore, "normal stuff, the usual" is the correct answer.
46.
In good hands
Correct Answer
C. Safe
Explanation
The phrase "in good hands" means to be in a safe and capable care or protection. Therefore, the correct answer "safe" aligns with the meaning of the phrase, indicating that being in good hands implies being safe.
47.
Choose the best idioms.My friend is a nice person. He is relaxed and tends to ___________________. But be careful if he stays at your house. He also tends to _____________________.
Correct Answer
B. Go with the flow ... wear out his welcome
Explanation
The correct answer is "go with the flow ... wear out his welcome." This means that the friend is easygoing and adaptable, but if he stays at someone's house for too long, he may become burdensome or overstaying his welcome.
48.
Every day, ____________________, I am _________________ in work. Soon, I am going to name my own salary and tell my manager to _____________________.
Correct Answer
C. Rain or shine ... up to my ears ... take it or leave it
Explanation
The phrase "rain or shine" means regardless of any circumstances or conditions. The phrase "up to my ears" means being extremely busy or overwhelmed with work. The phrase "take it or leave it" means to accept something as it is or reject it. Therefore, the correct answer implies that no matter the circumstances, the person is extremely busy with work and soon they will have the authority to decide their own salary and inform their manager to either accept it or reject it.
49.
That man is rude to everybody. I finally decided to ___________________. Why not? He deserved _____________________.
Correct Answer
A. Tell him off ... a taste of his own medicine
Explanation
The given correct answer for this question is "tell him off ... a taste of his own medicine". This means that the person speaking has finally decided to confront the rude man and reprimand him for his behavior. They believe that the man deserves to experience the same treatment that he has been giving to others.
50.
This is the last question on the test. You might have ___________________ because you are wondering if your answers are correct. But anyway, you are now free, and you can ____________________!
Correct Answer
B. Butterflies in your stomach ... walk on air
Explanation
The correct answer is "butterflies in your stomach ... walk on air". This is because the phrase "butterflies in your stomach" is often used to describe the feeling of nervousness or excitement. The second part of the answer, "walk on air", is an idiom that means to feel extremely happy or elated. Therefore, the overall meaning of the answer is that despite feeling nervous or uncertain about the test, now that it is over, you can feel extremely happy and relieved.