English: Idioms and Phrases - Part 1 — Solved MCQs Solved MCQs
Solved English idioms and phrases Part 1 MCQs — 129 questions with verified answers and explanations. Free online practice for FPSC, PPSC, NTS and all one-paper exams. Covers idiom meanings in sentences for one-paper exams.
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About this paper
This is the English: Idioms and Phrases - Part 1 solved MCQ bank from Advanced FPSC & Other Federal Model Papers (Edition 32): the book prints 129 sentence-based idiom questions (book pp. 699-705) with four alternatives each and a printed answer key, and every answer here is that key's answer checked against the standard meaning of the idiom, with a one-sentence explanation for every question. One key answer is corrected to the verified standard meaning (Q83, 'built upon sand'), and the correction is flagged, never hidden.
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Subject 1
English
129 MCQs
1
Topic Section
Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
129 solved MCQs shown directly below
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Q 1 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
Sohail could be easily arrested because the police were tipped off in advance.
A
Toppled over
B
Bribed
C
Given advance information
D
Threatened
View answer & explanation
Ans: Given advance information
Correct Answer: Given advance information
'tipped off' means given advance information.
Q 2 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
I met him after a long time, but he gave me the cold shoulder.
A
scolded me
B
insulted me
C
abused me
D
ignored me
View answer & explanation
Ans: ignored me
Correct Answer: ignored me
'cold shoulder' means ignored me.
Q 3 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
He passed himself off as a noble man.
A
Was regarded as
B
Pretended to be
C
Was thought to be
D
Was looked upon
View answer & explanation
Ans: Pretended to be
Correct Answer: Pretended to be
'passed himself off' means pretended to be.
Q 4 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
This matter has been hanging fire for the last many months and must therefore be decided one way or the other.
A
going on slowly
B
hotly debated
C
stuck up
D
ignored
View answer & explanation
Ans: going on slowly
Correct Answer: going on slowly
'hanging fire' means going on slowly.
Q 5 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
In the armed forces, it is considered a great privilege to die in harness.
A
die on a horse back
B
die in the battlefield
C
die while still working
D
die with honour
View answer & explanation
Ans: die while still working
Correct Answer: die while still working
'die in harness' means die while still working.
Q 6 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The cricket match proved to be a big draw.
A
a keen contest
B
a huge attraction
C
a lovely spectacle
D
a game without any result
View answer & explanation
Ans: a huge attraction
Correct Answer: a huge attraction
'big draw' means a huge attraction.
Q 7 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
When he heard that he had once again not been selected he lost heart.
A
became desperate
B
felt sad
C
became angry
D
became discouraged
View answer & explanation
Ans: became discouraged
Correct Answer: became discouraged
'lost heart' means became discouraged.
Q 8 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
He was undecided. He let the grass grow under his feet.
A
loitered around
B
stayed out
C
sat unmoving
D
moved away
View answer & explanation
Ans: loitered around
Correct Answer: loitered around
'let the grass grow under his feet' means loitered around.
Q 9 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
Although he has failed in the written examination, he is using backstairs influence to get the job.
A
Political influence
B
Backing influence
C
Deserving and proper influence
D
Secret and unfair influence
View answer & explanation
Ans: Secret and unfair influence
Correct Answer: Secret and unfair influence
'backstairs influence' means secret and unfair influence.
Q 10 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
Companies producing goods play to the gallery to boost their sales.
A
advertise
B
cater to the public taste
C
attempt to appeal to popular taste
D
depend upon the public for approval
View answer & explanation
Ans: attempt to appeal to popular taste
Correct Answer: attempt to appeal to popular taste
'play to the gallery' means attempt to appeal to popular taste.
Q 11 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
Since he knew what would happen, he should be left to stew in his own juice.
A
Make a stew
B
Boil
C
Suffer in his own juice
D
Suffer for his own act
View answer & explanation
Ans: Suffer for his own act
Correct Answer: Suffer for his own act
'stew in his own juice' means suffer for his own act.
Q 12 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The project did not appear to hold out bright prospects.
A
highlight
B
show
C
offer
D
promise
View answer & explanation
Ans: offer
Correct Answer: offer
'hold out' means offer.
Q 13 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
I am afraid he is burning the candle at both ends and ruining his life.
A
wasting his money
B
becoming overgenerous
C
overtaxing his energies
D
losing his objectives
View answer & explanation
Ans: overtaxing his energies
Correct Answer: overtaxing his energies
'burning the candle at both ends' means overtaxing his energies.
Q 14 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The university will have to shelve its plans for expansion in view of present situation.
A
cancel
B
discuss
C
reconsider
D
postpone
View answer & explanation
Ans: postpone
Correct Answer: postpone
'shelve' means postpone.
Q 15 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
Do not trust a man who blows his own trumpet.
A
flatters
B
praises others
C
admonishes others
D
praises himself
View answer & explanation
Ans: praises himself
Correct Answer: praises himself
'blows his own trumpet' means praises himself.
Q 16 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
He is out and out a reactionary.
A
no more
B
thoroughly
C
in favour of
D
deadly against
View answer & explanation
Ans: thoroughly
Correct Answer: thoroughly
'out and out' means thoroughly.
Q 17 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
I did not mind what he was saying, he was only through his hat.
A
talking nonsense
B
talking ignorantly
C
talking irresponsibly
D
talking insultingly
View answer & explanation
Ans: talking nonsense
Correct Answer: talking nonsense
'through his hat' means talking nonsense.
Q 18 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The case was held over due to the great opposition to it.
A
stopped
B
postponed
C
dropped
D
cancelled
View answer & explanation
Ans: postponed
Correct Answer: postponed
'held over' means postponed.
Q 19 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
In the organised society of today no individual or nation can plough a lonely furrow.
A
remain unaffected
B
do without the help of others
C
survive in isolation
D
remain non-aligned
View answer & explanation
Ans: do without the help of others
Correct Answer: do without the help of others
'plough a lonely furrow' means do without the help of others.
Q 20 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
It was he who put a spoke in my wheel.
A
tried to cause an accident
B
helped in the execution of the plan
C
thwarted in the execution of the plan
D
destroyed the plan
View answer & explanation
Ans: thwarted in the execution of the plan
Correct Answer: thwarted in the execution of the plan
'put a spoke in my wheel' means thwarted in the execution of the plan.
Q 21 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
It is no longer easy to strike gold in Shakespeare's research since much work has already been done on him.
A
Hit a golden spot
B
Come across gold
C
Come across the word "gold"
D
Uncover or find a valuable line of argument or information
View answer & explanation
Ans: Uncover or find a valuable line of argument or information
Correct Answer: Uncover or find a valuable line of argument or information
'strike gold' means uncover or find a valuable line of argument or information.
Q 22 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
Sanjay is very different about passing the Civil Services Examination this year.
A
Dead sure of
B
Very hopeful of
C
Lacking self confidence about
D
Reasonably certain of
View answer & explanation
Ans: Lacking self confidence about
Correct Answer: Lacking self confidence about
The book prints 'very different', but the key's answer only fits the idiom 'diffident': 'diffident' means lacking self-confidence.
Q 23 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
Why must you look a gift horse in the mouth?
A
welcome a gift
B
find fault with a gift
C
be fastidious
D
examine a gift carefully
View answer & explanation
Ans: find fault with a gift
Correct Answer: find fault with a gift
'look a gift horse in the mouth' means find fault with a gift.
Q 24 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
Dowry is a burning question of the day.
A
a widely debated issue
B
a dying issue
C
a relevant problem
D
an irrelevant issue
View answer & explanation
Ans: a widely debated issue
Correct Answer: a widely debated issue
'burning question' means a widely debated issue.
Q 25 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
Leaders should not only make speeches they should also be prepared to bell the cat.
A
To take lead in danger
B
To tie bell to a cat's neck
C
To be alert of the enemy
D
To make noise
View answer & explanation
Ans: To take lead in danger
Correct Answer: To take lead in danger
'bell the cat' means to take lead in danger.
Q 26 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The popularity of the yesterday's superstar is on the wane.
A
at its peak
B
at rock bottom
C
growing more
D
growing less
View answer & explanation
Ans: growing less
Correct Answer: growing less
'on the wane' means growing less.
Q 27 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
He is leaving the country for a good.
A
for better prospects
B
for a good cause
C
for ever
D
for others good
View answer & explanation
Ans: for ever
Correct Answer: for ever
'for a good' means for ever.
Q 28 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
He is an interesting speaker but tends to go off at a tangent.
A
change the subject immediately
B
forget things in between
C
go on at great length
D
become boisterous
View answer & explanation
Ans: change the subject immediately
Correct Answer: change the subject immediately
'go off at a tangent' means change the subject immediately.
Q 29 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
He sold his house for a song.
A
at a reasonable price
B
at a discount
C
very cheaply
D
at a premium
View answer & explanation
Ans: very cheaply
Correct Answer: very cheaply
'for a song' means very cheaply.
Q 30 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
Despite the trust bestowed on the minister he turned out to be a snake in the grass during the revolution.
A
a secret enemy
B
a treacherous person
C
an unforeseen danger
D
an unexpected misfortune
View answer & explanation
Ans: a secret enemy
Correct Answer: a secret enemy
'snake in the grass' means a secret enemy.
Q 31 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
Women should be paid the same as men when they do the same job, for, surely what is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander.
A
What is thought suitable pay for a man should also be for a woman
B
Goose and the gender eat the same sauce
C
Both goose and gander should be equally treated
D
The principle of equal treatment should be implemented
View answer & explanation
Ans: What is thought suitable pay for a man should also be for a woman
Correct Answer: What is thought suitable pay for a man should also be for a woman
'sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander' means what is thought suitable pay for a man should also be for a woman.
Q 32 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The party stalwarts have advised the President to take it lying down for a while.
A
to be cautious
B
to be on the defensive
C
to take rest
D
to show no reaction
View answer & explanation
Ans: to show no reaction
Correct Answer: to show no reaction
'take it lying down' means to show no reaction.
Q 33 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The thief took to his heels when he saw a policeman on the beat.
A
had some pain in his heels
B
ran away from the scene
C
confronted the policeman
D
could not decide what to do
View answer & explanation
Ans: ran away from the scene
Correct Answer: ran away from the scene
'took to his heels' means ran away from the scene.
Q 34 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
He struck several bad patches before he made good.
A
came across bad soil
B
Had a bad time
C
Went through many illness
D
Had many professional difficulties
View answer & explanation
Ans: Had a bad time
Correct Answer: Had a bad time
'bad patches' means had a bad time.
Q 35 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The accounts of the murder made her flesh creep.
A
Made her sad
B
Surprised her
C
Made her cry bitterly
D
Fill her with horror
View answer & explanation
Ans: Fill her with horror
Correct Answer: Fill her with horror
'flesh creep' means fill her with horror.
Q 36 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
How long will the people put up with the increasing economic hardships?
A
welcome
B
take easily
C
remain satisfied with
D
tolerate
View answer & explanation
Ans: tolerate
Correct Answer: tolerate
'put up with' means tolerate.
Q 37 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The teacher warned the student once for all that no mischief shall be tolerated in the class.
A
authoritatively
B
finally
C
angrily
D
coldly
View answer & explanation
Ans: finally
Correct Answer: finally
'once for all' means finally.
Q 38 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
I hope it will not put you out if I am late.
A
harm you
B
irritate you
C
please you
D
worry out
View answer & explanation
Ans: irritate you
Correct Answer: irritate you
'put you out' means irritate you.
Q 39 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
Imtiaz has left his country for good.
A
for better opportunities
B
on an important mission
C
forever
D
to return soon
View answer & explanation
Ans: forever
Correct Answer: forever
'for good' means forever.
Q 40 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
Sanjay was the real power behind the throne and all politicians were aware of this.
A
The person who had the real control and power
B
The acknowledged leader
C
The person who controlled the monarch
D
The person who advised the queen
View answer & explanation
Ans: The person who had the real control and power
Correct Answer: The person who had the real control and power
'power behind the throne' means the person who had the real control and power.
Q 41 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
His friends let him down.
A
failed
B
comforted
C
succeeded
D
stood by
View answer & explanation
Ans: failed
Correct Answer: failed
'let him down' means failed.
Q 42 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
I felt like a fish out of water among all those business tycoons.
A
troubled
B
stupid
C
uncomfortable
D
inferior
View answer & explanation
Ans: uncomfortable
Correct Answer: uncomfortable
'fish out of water' means uncomfortable.
Q 43 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
Some people now wonder whether we just pay lip-service or genuinely subscribe to democracy.
A
pay oral tribute
B
attach no value
C
remain indifferent
D
show only outward respect
View answer & explanation
Ans: show only outward respect
Correct Answer: show only outward respect
'pay lip-service' means show only outward respect.
Q 44 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
Don't thrust your nose into my affairs.
A
Advise me about
B
Be in opposition
C
Deal with
D
Meddle officiously in
View answer & explanation
Ans: Meddle officiously in
Correct Answer: Meddle officiously in
'thrust your nose' means meddle officiously in.
Q 45 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
He visits the doctor off and on.
A
everyday
B
regularly
C
never at all
D
occasionally
View answer & explanation
Ans: occasionally
Correct Answer: occasionally
'off and on' means occasionally.
Q 46 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The recent film "Secular India" has tried to keep the pot of Muslim women's Bill boiling.
A
Earning enough to keep body and soul together
B
Keep a controversy alive
C
Boil the bill
D
Boil something in a pot
View answer & explanation
Ans: Keep a controversy alive
Correct Answer: Keep a controversy alive
'keep the pot boiling' means keep a controversy alive.
Q 47 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The robber took to his heels when the police arrived.
A
opened fire
B
hid himself
C
ran off
D
surrendered
View answer & explanation
Ans: ran off
Correct Answer: ran off
'took to his heels' means ran off.
Q 48 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
You cannot have your cake and eat it too.
A
Enjoy forever
B
Have it both ways
C
Run away from responsibility
D
Absolve yourself of guilt
View answer & explanation
Ans: Have it both ways
Correct Answer: Have it both ways
'have your cake and eat it too' means have it both ways.
Q 49 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The rebels held out for about a month.
A
waited
B
retreated
C
bargained
D
resisted
View answer & explanation
Ans: resisted
Correct Answer: resisted
'held out' means resisted.
Q 50 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The new economic policy is likely to run into rough weather.
'run into rough weather' means encounter difficulties.
Q 51 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The old father brought home the moral of unity by asking each of his sons to break the bundle of sticks.
A
emphasised
B
voiced
C
declared
D
suggested
View answer & explanation
Ans: emphasised
Correct Answer: emphasised
'brought home' means emphasised.
Q 52 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
If you give John all your money, you are likely to burn your fingers.
A
be unhappy
B
be happy
C
suffer
D
be ill
View answer & explanation
Ans: suffer
Correct Answer: suffer
'burn your fingers' means suffer.
Q 53 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
I am sure they will fight tooth and nail for their rights.
A
with all their might
B
without any other weapon
C
resorting to violence
D
very cowardly
View answer & explanation
Ans: with all their might
Correct Answer: with all their might
'tooth and nail' means with all their might.
Q 54 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
We were in hurry. The road being zigzag we had to cut off a corner to reach in time.
A
To cut a portion of the road
B
To take a short cut
C
To go fast
D
To take an alternative route
View answer & explanation
Ans: To take a short cut
Correct Answer: To take a short cut
'cut off a corner' means to take a short cut.
Q 55 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
Discipline is on the wane in schools and colleges these days.
A
declining
B
increasing
C
spreading
D
spiraling
View answer & explanation
Ans: declining
Correct Answer: declining
'on the wane' means declining.
Q 56 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
In spite of the efforts of all peace loving people, world peace is still a far cry.
A
an impracticable idea
B
an abstract idea
C
out of reach
D
a long way off
View answer & explanation
Ans: a long way off
Correct Answer: a long way off
'far cry' means a long way off.
Q 57 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
I felt that it was a tall order to expect Maham to go home alone at twelve in the night.
A
Difficult
B
Too much
C
Customary
D
Simple
View answer & explanation
Ans: Too much
Correct Answer: Too much
'tall order' means too much.
Q 58 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
I cannot get along with a man who plays fast and loose.
A
behaves in an unreliable and insincere way
B
has a loose tongue
C
lives a life of ease and luxury
D
does not know how to behave himself
View answer & explanation
Ans: behaves in an unreliable and insincere way
Correct Answer: behaves in an unreliable and insincere way
'plays fast and loose' means behaves in an unreliable and insincere way.
Q 59 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
There is no love lost between two neighbors.
A
close friendship
B
cool indifference
C
intense dislike
D
a love hate relationship
View answer & explanation
Ans: intense dislike
Correct Answer: intense dislike
'no love lost' means intense dislike.
Q 60 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The question of abolition of private property is still a moot point.
A
undecided
B
uncertain
C
unknown
D
not clear
View answer & explanation
Ans: undecided
Correct Answer: undecided
'moot point' means undecided.
Q 61 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
This regular absenteeism is a bad business since no work is being completed.
A
Bad for business
B
Non-business like
C
An unfortunate event
D
Creating ill-will
View answer & explanation
Ans: An unfortunate event
Correct Answer: An unfortunate event
'bad business' means an unfortunate event.
Q 62 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
When he tells stories about himself, he is inclined to draw the long bow.
A
understate
B
get emotional
C
exaggerate
D
get excited
View answer & explanation
Ans: exaggerate
Correct Answer: exaggerate
'draw the long bow' means exaggerate.
Q 63 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
Ikram said that he has got a problem to square up with the manager.
A
consider
B
discuss
C
settle
D
workout
View answer & explanation
Ans: settle
Correct Answer: settle
'square up' means settle.
Q 64 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
Although both the parents are running the show for the last ten years but their business is now on its last legs.
A
About to fructify
B
About to perish
C
About to produce results
D
About to take off
View answer & explanation
Ans: About to perish
Correct Answer: About to perish
'on its last legs' means about to perish.
Q 65 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The time is running out, you must look sharp.
A
be careful
B
make haste
C
be punctual
D
be sensible
View answer & explanation
Ans: make haste
Correct Answer: make haste
'look sharp' means make haste.
Q 66 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
He is in the habit of throwing dust in his superiors eyes.
A
To put sand into eyes
B
To make blind
C
To deceive
D
To show false things
View answer & explanation
Ans: To deceive
Correct Answer: To deceive
'throwing dust in his superiors' eyes' means to deceive.
Q 67 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
In modern democratic societies lynch law seems to have become the spheres of life.
A
law of the mob
B
law of the underworld
C
law of the constitution
D
law of the parliament
View answer & explanation
Ans: law of the mob
Correct Answer: law of the mob
'lynch law' means law of the mob.
Q 68 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
He was in high spirits when I met him in the restaurant.
A
He was in a drunken state
B
He was very cheerful
C
He talked incoherently
D
He was deeply engrossed in thoughts
View answer & explanation
Ans: He was very cheerful
Correct Answer: He was very cheerful
'high spirits' means he was very cheerful.
Q 69 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
In his youth, he was practically rolling in money.
A
Spending more than his income
B
Borrowing money liberally
C
Very rich
D
Wasting a lot of money
View answer & explanation
Ans: Very rich
Correct Answer: Very rich
'rolling in money' means very rich.
Q 70 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
Jaya had a chequered career since I first knew him as an office assistant in the insurance company.
A
Had a variety of jobs and experiences
B
A career which helped him make lot of money
C
A career where he signed a lot of cheques
D
Did odd jobs
View answer & explanation
Ans: Had a variety of jobs and experiences
Correct Answer: Had a variety of jobs and experiences
'chequered career' means had a variety of jobs and experiences.
Q 71 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The sight of the accident made my flesh creep.
A
draw my attention
B
confused me
C
frightened me
D
worried me
View answer & explanation
Ans: frightened me
Correct Answer: frightened me
'flesh creep' means frightened me.
Q 72 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
There is no hard and fast rule regarding this subject.
A
rule that is difficult
B
rule that is fast changing
C
rule that cannot be broken or modified
D
rule that can be broken or modified
View answer & explanation
Ans: rule that cannot be broken or modified
Correct Answer: rule that cannot be broken or modified
'hard and fast rule' means rule that cannot be broken or modified.
Q 73 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
He went to his friend's house in the evening as was his wont.
A
as usual
B
as he wanted
C
as his want was
D
as he wanted that day
View answer & explanation
Ans: as usual
Correct Answer: as usual
'as was his wont' means as usual.
Q 74 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
Why do you wish to tread on the toes?
A
To give offence to them
B
To follow them grudgingly
C
To treat them indifferently
D
To be kicked by them
View answer & explanation
Ans: To give offence to them
Correct Answer: To give offence to them
'tread on the toes' means to give offence to them.
Q 75 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
He intends setting up as a lawyer in the adjoining district.
A
To establish himself
B
To migrate
C
To join
D
To settle
View answer & explanation
Ans: To establish himself
Correct Answer: To establish himself
'setting up' means to establish himself.
Q 76 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The autographed bat from the famous cricketer Sunil Gavaskar is worth a jew's eye.
A
Not a worthy possession
B
unnecessary
C
A costly items
D
A possession of high value
View answer & explanation
Ans: A possession of high value
Correct Answer: A possession of high value
'worth a Jew's eye' means a possession of high value.
Q 77 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The speaker gave a bird's eye view of the political conditions in the country.
A
a personal view
B
a general view
C
a biased view
D
a detailed presentation
View answer & explanation
Ans: a general view
Correct Answer: a general view
'bird's eye view' means a general view.
Q 78 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
He resigned the post of his own accord.
A
which he liked
B
according to his convenience
C
voluntarily and willingly
D
according to his judgement
View answer & explanation
Ans: voluntarily and willingly
Correct Answer: voluntarily and willingly
'of his own accord' means voluntarily and willingly.
Q 79 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
As a politician he is used to being in the limelight all the time.
A
giving speeches
B
the object of admiration
C
the centre of attraction
D
an object of public notice
View answer & explanation
Ans: the centre of attraction
Correct Answer: the centre of attraction
'in the limelight' means the centre of attraction.
Q 80 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
I ran out of money on my European tour.
A
exhausted my stock of
B
did not have enough
C
lost
D
carried a lot
View answer & explanation
Ans: exhausted my stock of
Correct Answer: exhausted my stock of
'ran out of' means exhausted my stock of.
Q 81 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
Meera might scream blue murder, but I feel Doll should get the promotion since she is better qualified for the job.
A
Someone has been murdered with some blue liquid
B
Someone is being murdered and has become blue
C
Suffer from persecution complex
D
Make a great deal of noise and object vehemently
View answer & explanation
Ans: Make a great deal of noise and object vehemently
Correct Answer: Make a great deal of noise and object vehemently
'scream blue murder' means make a great deal of noise and object vehemently.
Q 82 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
Having sold off his factory, he is now a gentleman at large.
A
Has no serious occupation
B
Is living comfortably
C
Is respected by everybody
D
Is held in high esteem
View answer & explanation
Ans: Has no serious occupation
Correct Answer: Has no serious occupation
'gentleman at large' means has no serious occupation.
Q 83 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
Though he has lot of money, yet all his plans are built upon sand.
A
established on insecure foundations
B
based on inexperience
C
resting on cheap material
D
resting on immature ideas
View answer & explanation
Ans: established on insecure foundations
Correct Answer: established on insecure foundations
'Built upon sand' means established on insecure foundations. The book's printed key says 'resting on immature ideas', which is not the standard meaning, so the verified standard answer is used.
Q 84 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
His plan was so complicated that it floored his listeners.
A
entertained
B
puzzled
C
annoyed
D
encouraged
View answer & explanation
Ans: puzzled
Correct Answer: puzzled
'floored' means puzzled.
Q 85 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
There has been bad blood between the two communities even before shouting.
A
Impure blood
B
Ill feeling
C
Bloody fights
D
Quarrels
View answer & explanation
Ans: Ill feeling
Correct Answer: Ill feeling
'bad blood' means ill feeling.
Q 86 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The curious neighbors were disappointed as the young couple's quarrel was just a storm in a tea cup.
A
violent quarrel
B
fuss about a trifle
C
brittle situation
D
quarrel about tea cups
View answer & explanation
Ans: fuss about a trifle
Correct Answer: fuss about a trifle
'storm in a tea cup' means fuss about a trifle.
Q 87 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
Mohan always keeps himself to himself.
A
Is too busy
B
Is selfish
C
Is unsociable
D
Does not take sides
View answer & explanation
Ans: Is unsociable
Correct Answer: Is unsociable
'keeps himself to himself' means is unsociable.
Q 88 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
While the ladies continued their small talk in the drawing room, I felt bored.
A
whispering
B
backbiting
C
gossip
D
light conversation
View answer & explanation
Ans: light conversation
Correct Answer: light conversation
'small talk' means light conversation.
Q 89 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
My car broke down on way to the railway station.
A
stopped
B
met with an accident
C
ran out of petrol
D
failed to work
View answer & explanation
Ans: stopped
Correct Answer: stopped
'broke down' means stopped.
Q 90 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
My father strained every nerve to enable me to get settled in life.
A
worked very hard
B
spent a huge amount
C
tried all tricks
D
bribed several persons
View answer & explanation
Ans: worked very hard
Correct Answer: worked very hard
'strained every nerve' means worked very hard.
Q 91 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
He is always picking holes in every project.
A
creating problems in
B
finding fault with
C
suggesting improvement in
D
asking irrelevant questions on
View answer & explanation
Ans: finding fault with
Correct Answer: finding fault with
'picking holes' means finding fault with.
Q 92 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The die is cast and now let us hope for the best.
A
project is over
B
decision is made
C
death is inevitable
D
cloth has been dyed
View answer & explanation
Ans: decision is made
Correct Answer: decision is made
'die is cast' means decision is made.
Q 93 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
Pt. Nehru was born with a silver spoon in his mouth.
A
born in a middle class family
B
born in a wealthy family
C
born in a royal family
D
born in a family of nationalists
View answer & explanation
Ans: born in a wealthy family
Correct Answer: born in a wealthy family
'silver spoon in his mouth' means born in a wealthy family.
Q 94 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The arrival of the mother-in-law in the family proved a rift in the lute.
A
caused unnecessary worries
B
brought about disharmony
C
caused a pleasant atmosphere
D
brought about a disciplined atmosphere
View answer & explanation
Ans: brought about disharmony
Correct Answer: brought about disharmony
'rift in the lute' means brought about disharmony.
Q 95 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The prince did not take after the king.
A
run after
B
follow
C
precede
D
resemble
View answer & explanation
Ans: resemble
Correct Answer: resemble
'take after' means resemble.
Q 96 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
Don't lose patience, things will improve by and by.
A
soon
B
finally
C
gradually
D
unexpectedly
View answer & explanation
Ans: gradually
Correct Answer: gradually
'by and by' means gradually.
Q 97 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
Do not imagine that Dharmendra is really sorry that his wife died. Those are only crocodile tears.
A
Pretended sorrow
B
Tears a crocodile
C
A weeping crocodile
D
Mild regret
View answer & explanation
Ans: Pretended sorrow
Correct Answer: Pretended sorrow
'crocodile tears' means pretended sorrow.
Q 98 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The P.M has pulled up Orissa partymen.
A
elevated
B
rewarded
C
punished
D
reprimanded
View answer & explanation
Ans: reprimanded
Correct Answer: reprimanded
'pulled up' means reprimanded.
Q 99 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
He did me a good turn by recommending me for the post of Vice Principal.
A
returned my kindness
B
did an act of kindness
C
improved my prospects
D
became suddenly good
View answer & explanation
Ans: did an act of kindness
Correct Answer: did an act of kindness
'did me a good turn' means did an act of kindness.
Q 100 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
He believes in the policy of making hay while the sun shines.
A
giving bribes to get his work done
B
seeking advice from one and all
C
helping those who help him
D
making the best use of a favorable situation
View answer & explanation
Ans: making the best use of a favorable situation
Correct Answer: making the best use of a favorable situation
'making hay while the sun shines' means making the best use of a favorable situation.
Q 101 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
His friends advised him to be fair and square in his dealings.
A
Careful
B
Considerate
C
Polite
D
Upright
View answer & explanation
Ans: Upright
Correct Answer: Upright
'fair and square' means upright.
Q 102 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
It is high time that India did something about the population problem.
A
already late
B
appropriate time
C
desired occasion
D
auspicious moment
View answer & explanation
Ans: already late
Correct Answer: already late
'high time' means already late.
Q 103 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
He is always standing up for the weak and oppressed.
A
Boosting the claims of
B
Championing the cause of
C
Seeking help of others for
D
Moving about with
View answer & explanation
Ans: Championing the cause of
Correct Answer: Championing the cause of
'standing up for' means championing the cause of.
Q 104 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
We should give a wide berth to bad characters.
A
give publicity to
B
publicly condemn
C
keep away from
D
not sympathise with
View answer & explanation
Ans: keep away from
Correct Answer: keep away from
'give a wide berth' means keep away from.
Q 105 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
Turban is in vogue in some communities.
A
in fashion
B
out of use
C
vaguely used
D
never used
View answer & explanation
Ans: in fashion
Correct Answer: in fashion
'in vogue' means in fashion.
Q 106 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The old man was cut to the quick when his rich son refused to recognise him.
A
surprised
B
hurt intensely
C
annoyed
D
irritated
View answer & explanation
Ans: hurt intensely
Correct Answer: hurt intensely
'cut to the quick' means hurt intensely.
Q 107 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
I requested him to put in a word for me.
A
introduce
B
assist
C
support
D
recommend
View answer & explanation
Ans: recommend
Correct Answer: recommend
'put in a word' means recommend.
Q 108 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The dacoit murdered the man in cold blood.
A
coldly
B
boldly
C
ruthlessly
D
deliberately
View answer & explanation
Ans: ruthlessly
Correct Answer: ruthlessly
'in cold blood' means ruthlessly.
Q 109 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
He has built a big business empire by his sharp practices.
A
extreme hard work
B
keen business skills
C
dishonest dealings
D
sharp intelligence
View answer & explanation
Ans: dishonest dealings
Correct Answer: dishonest dealings
'sharp practices' means dishonest dealings.
Q 110 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The secretary and the treasurer are hand in glove with each other.
A
very good friends
B
constantly fighting
C
associates in some action
D
suspicious of each other
View answer & explanation
Ans: very good friends
Correct Answer: very good friends
'hand in glove' means very good friends.
Q 111 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
He never liked the idea of keeping his wife under his thumb and so he let her do what she liked.
A
Pressed down
B
Unduly under control
C
Below his thumb
D
Under tyrannical conditions
View answer & explanation
Ans: Unduly under control
Correct Answer: Unduly under control
'under his thumb' means unduly under control.
Q 112 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
It is time that professors came down from their ivory towers and studied the real needs of the students.
A
Detachment and seclusion
B
A tower made of ivory
C
Prison
D
Dream lands
View answer & explanation
Ans: Detachment and seclusion
Correct Answer: Detachment and seclusion
'ivory towers' means detachment and seclusion.
Q 113 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
You have to be a cool customer and be patient if you want to get the best buys.
A
Be calm and not be excitable
B
Have a cool head
C
Be uncommunicative
D
Be choosy
View answer & explanation
Ans: Be calm and not be excitable
Correct Answer: Be calm and not be excitable
'cool customer' means be calm and not be excitable.
Q 114 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
There was no opposition to the new policy by the rank and file of the Government.
A
the official machinery
B
the ordinary members
C
the majority
D
the cabinet ministers
View answer & explanation
Ans: the ordinary members
Correct Answer: the ordinary members
'rank and file' means the ordinary members.
Q 115 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The clerk wiped the nose of his employer by submitting a false bill and was dismissed from his job.
A
Cleaned the nose
B
Cheated
C
Abused
D
Slapped
View answer & explanation
Ans: Cheated
Correct Answer: Cheated
'wiped the nose' means cheated.
Q 116 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
I have a bone to pick with you in this matter.
A
Am in agreement
B
Am angry
C
Am indebted
D
Will join hands
View answer & explanation
Ans: Am angry
Correct Answer: Am angry
'bone to pick' means am angry.
Q 117 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The new C.M stuck his neck out today and promised 10kgs free wheat a month for all rural families.
A
took an oath
B
took a risk
C
extended help
D
caused embarrassment
View answer & explanation
Ans: took a risk
Correct Answer: took a risk
'stuck his neck out' means took a risk.
Q 118 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
Harassed by repeated acts of injustice. He decided to put his foot down.
A
not to yield
B
resign
C
to accept the proposal unconditionally
D
withdraw
View answer & explanation
Ans: not to yield
Correct Answer: not to yield
'put his foot down' means not to yield.
Q 119 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The class could not keep a straight face on hearing the strange pronunciation of the new teacher.
A
remain silent
B
remain serious
C
remain mute
D
remain disturbed
View answer & explanation
Ans: remain serious
Correct Answer: remain serious
'keep a straight face' means remain serious.
Q 120 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The parliamentary inquiry into the Bofors deal did not bring to light any startling facts.
A
Prove
B
Probe
C
Highlight
D
Disclose
View answer & explanation
Ans: Disclose
Correct Answer: Disclose
'bring to light' means disclose.
Q 121 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
His speech went down well with the majority of the audience.
A
found acceptance with
B
was attentively listened to by
C
was appreciated by
D
was applauded by
View answer & explanation
Ans: was appreciated by
Correct Answer: was appreciated by
'went down well with' means was appreciated by.
Q 122 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
Rohail has bitten off more than he chew.
A
Is trying to do much
B
Is very greedy
C
Is always hungry
D
Has little regard for others
View answer & explanation
Ans: Is trying to do much
Correct Answer: Is trying to do much
'bitten off more than he can chew' means is trying to do much.
Q 123 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The detective left no stone unturned to trace the culprit.
A
took no pains
B
did very irrelevant things
C
resorted to illegitimate practices
D
used all available means
View answer & explanation
Ans: used all available means
Correct Answer: used all available means
'left no stone unturned' means used all available means.
Q 124 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The authorities took him to task for his negligence.
A
gave him additional work
B
suspended his assignment
C
reprimanded him
D
forced him to resign
View answer & explanation
Ans: reprimanded him
Correct Answer: reprimanded him
'took him to task' means reprimanded him.
Q 125 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
In spite of the immense pressure exerted by the militants, the Government has decided not to give in.
A
accede
B
yield
C
oblige
D
confirm
View answer & explanation
Ans: yield
Correct Answer: yield
'give in' means yield.
Q 126 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
Their business is now on its last legs.
A
About to fructify
B
About to perish
C
About to produce results
D
About to take off
View answer & explanation
Ans: About to perish
Correct Answer: About to perish
'on its last legs' means about to perish.
Q 127 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
He went back on his promise to vote for me.
A
withdrew
B
forgot
C
reinforced
D
supported
View answer & explanation
Ans: withdrew
Correct Answer: withdrew
'went back on' means withdrew.
Q 128 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
The old beggar ran amuck and began to throw stones at the passerby.
A
became desperate
B
ran about wildly
C
become annoyed
D
felt disgusted
View answer & explanation
Ans: ran about wildly
Correct Answer: ran about wildly
'ran amuck' means ran about wildly.
Q 129 English Idioms And Phrases (Part 1)
I cannot conceive of a time when I was without a refrigerator.
A
Imagine
B
Give birth
C
Understand
D
Depend
View answer & explanation
Ans: Imagine
Correct Answer: Imagine
'conceive of' means imagine.
Source & verification
Built by GK360 from verified bank questions — every answer rechecked before publishing.
How many questions are in the English: Idioms and Phrases - Part 1 MCQ bank?
+
129 questions are published, taken from the book's idiom section (book pp. 699-705), each asking for the meaning of the italicised idiom in a sentence.
What does the English: Idioms and Phrases - Part 1 bank cover?
+
Sentence-based idiom meanings: phrasal verbs, idioms and set phrases such as 'cold shoulder', 'burning the candle at both ends', 'silver spoon in his mouth' and 'on its last legs', each tested in a full sentence.
Are the answers verified?
+
Yes — every answer is the book's printed answer-key letter checked against the standard meaning of the idiom. The single key answer that disagrees with the standard meaning (Q83) is corrected and flagged in the file's notes.
Which other exams does this bank help with?
+
Idiom-meaning questions appear across FPSC, PPSC, NTS, PTS and CSS MPT one-paper tests, so this bank is useful preparation for all of them, not just FPSC.
