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Topic MCQs · English

Idioms MCQs

338 MCQs on Idioms sit in the GK360 bank, collected from 136 solved papers (2004–2026). Below are the top 100 distinct questions — repeats across papers merged into their strongest version — with the correct answer marked, an explanation where the bank carries one, and the source paper named on every card.

Q 1 English Idioms

Choose the correct meaning of idiomatic/phrase "to fly off the handle"?

A

To take off

B

To be indifferent

C

To lose one's temper

Correct
D

To dislocate

View answer & explanation Ans: To lose one's temper

Correct Answer: To lose one's temper

The correct answer is To lose one's temper, as asked in this question on Idioms.

From: Assistant Librarian Past Paper 2026 Solved (2026) · PPSC

Q 2 English Idioms

"Lock stock and barrel" mean?

A

Suddenly

B

Completely

Correct
C

Carefully

D

Partially

View answer & explanation Ans: Completely

Correct Answer: Completely

The correct answer is Completely, as asked in this question on Idioms.

From: Assistant Past Paper 2026 Solved (2026) · PPSC

Q 3 English Idioms

"French leave" means?

A

بغیر اجازت چھٹی

Correct
B

اجازت لے کر چھٹی

C

مستقل چھٹی

D

کوئی نہیں

View answer & explanation Ans: بغیر اجازت چھٹی

Correct Answer: بغیر اجازت چھٹی

The correct answer is بغیر اجازت چھٹی, as asked in this question on Idioms.

From: Assistant Past Paper 2026 Solved (2026) · PPSC

Q 4 English Idioms

Meaning of Idiom Rough Up?

A

To praise

B

To clean

C

Challenge

Correct
D

to help

View answer & explanation Ans: Challenge

Correct Answer: Challenge

The correct answer is Challenge, as asked in this question on Idioms.

From: Assistant/Office Assistant Past Paper 2026 Solved (2026) · PPSC

Q 5 English Idioms

Break a leg idiom mean:

A

to injury

B

Good luck

Correct
C

to fall

D

unfortunate

View answer & explanation Ans: Good luck

Correct Answer: Good luck

The correct answer is Good luck, as asked in this question on Idioms.

From: Assistant/Office Assistant Past Paper 2026 Solved (2026) · PPSC

Q 6 English Idioms

Do not Cry over ___ milk:

A

Boil

B

Cry

C

Split

Correct
D

None

View answer & explanation Ans: Split

Correct Answer: Split

The correct answer is Split, as asked in this question on Idioms.

From: Assistant/Office Assistant Past Paper 2026 Solved (2026) · PPSC

Q 7 English Idioms

Meaning of idiom 'Break the ice':

A

To start a conversation

Correct
B

To fight

C

To travel

D

To win

View answer & explanation Ans: To start a conversation

Correct Answer: To start a conversation

To break the ice means to start a conversation and ease initial awkwardness.

From: CSS MPT 2026 Full Mock Test — Solved MCQs with Answers (2026) · CSS

Q 8 English Idioms

Meaning of idiom 'A white elephant':

A

Costly but useless possession

Correct
B

Rare animal

C

Charity

D

Heavy burden

View answer & explanation Ans: Costly but useless possession

Correct Answer: Costly but useless possession

A white elephant is a possession that costs a lot to keep but is of little use.

From: CSS MPT 2026 Full Mock Test — Solved MCQs with Answers (2026) · CSS

Q 9 English Idioms

What does 'She passed the exam by the skin of her teeth' mean?

A

With great pain

B

Passed by a very narrow margin

Correct
C

After a long struggle

D

By sheer luck alone

View answer & explanation Ans: Passed by a very narrow margin

Correct Answer: Passed by a very narrow margin

The idiom 'by the skin of one's teeth' means to succeed only just, by a very narrow margin.

From: CSS MPT 2026 Paper Recall — Solved One-Liners with Answers (2026) · CSS

Q 10 English Idioms

What does the idiom 'That's a red herring' mean?

A

A warning sign

B

A false or distracting clue

Correct
C

A rare opportunity

D

A secret message

View answer & explanation Ans: A false or distracting clue

Correct Answer: A false or distracting clue

A 'red herring' is a false or distracting clue that draws attention away from the real issue.

From: CSS MPT 2026 Paper Recall — Solved One-Liners with Answers (2026) · CSS

Q 11 English Idioms

What does the idiom 'Bite your tongue' mean?

A

Speak harshly

B

Taste something bitter

C

Refrain from speaking

Correct
D

Keep a secret forever

View answer & explanation Ans: Refrain from speaking

Correct Answer: Refrain from speaking

To 'bite your tongue' is to refrain from speaking, holding back something you want to say.

From: CSS MPT 2026 Paper Recall — Solved One-Liners with Answers (2026) · CSS

Q 12 English Idioms

What does the idiom 'Shoot from the hip' mean?

A

Aim carefully before speaking

B

Speak or act without thinking

Correct
C

Shoot accurately

D

Act with patience

View answer & explanation Ans: Speak or act without thinking

Correct Answer: Speak or act without thinking

To 'shoot from the hip' is to speak or act hastily, without thinking it through.

From: CSS MPT 2026 Paper Recall — Solved One-Liners with Answers (2026) · CSS

Q 13 English Idioms

What does the idiom 'Play it by ear' mean?

A

Listen to music

B

Follow a written plan

C

Improvise as events unfold

Correct
D

Repeat what others say

View answer & explanation Ans: Improvise as events unfold

Correct Answer: Improvise as events unfold

To 'play it by ear' is to improvise and adapt as events unfold rather than following a fixed plan.

From: CSS MPT 2026 Paper Recall — Solved One-Liners with Answers (2026) · CSS

Q 14 English Idioms

What does the idiom 'Draw the line in the sand' mean?

A

Start a fight

B

Draw a map

C

Set a clear limit or boundary

Correct
D

Cross a border

View answer & explanation Ans: Set a clear limit or boundary

Correct Answer: Set a clear limit or boundary

To 'draw the line in the sand' is to set a clear limit or boundary beyond which one will not go.

From: CSS MPT 2026 Paper Recall — Solved One-Liners with Answers (2026) · CSS

Q 15 English Idioms

What does the idiom 'Clutch at straws' mean?

A

Hold on tightly to success

B

Make a desperate attempt

Correct
C

Grasp an opportunity

D

Save someone from drowning

View answer & explanation Ans: Make a desperate attempt

Correct Answer: Make a desperate attempt

To 'clutch at straws' is to make a desperate attempt to succeed when there is little hope.

From: CSS MPT 2026 Paper Recall — Solved One-Liners with Answers (2026) · CSS

Q 16 English Idioms

The idiom “Under the harrow” means ______.

A

Happiness

B

Victory

C

Freedom

D

Anxiety

Correct
View answer & explanation Ans: Anxiety

Correct Answer: Anxiety

To be under the harrow is to be in distress or anxiety, as under a harrow's teeth.

From: CSS MPT 2026 Practice Set — Sir Adnan 300 One-Liners with Answers (2026) · CSS

Q 17 English Idioms

On the score of means ______.

A

On the basis of money

B

On the ground of

Correct
C

On the field of

D

On the top of

View answer & explanation Ans: On the ground of

Correct Answer: On the ground of

The idiom “on the score of” means on the ground of, i.e. for the reason of.

From: CSS MPT 2026 Practice Set — Sir Adnan 300 One-Liners with Answers (2026) · CSS

Q 18 English Idioms

Backstairs influence means ______.

A

Official influence

B

Open influence

C

Unfair influence

Correct
D

Legal influence

View answer & explanation Ans: Unfair influence

Correct Answer: Unfair influence

Backstairs influence is secret, underhand — unfair — influence.

From: CSS MPT 2026 Practice Set — Sir Adnan 300 One-Liners with Answers (2026) · CSS

Q 19 English Idioms

Light-fingered person means ______.

A

A person who is generous

B

A person who is honest

C

A person who is a thief

Correct
D

A person who is lazy

View answer & explanation Ans: A person who is a thief

Correct Answer: A person who is a thief

Light-fingered describes someone skilled at stealing, i.e. a thief or pickpocket.

From: CSS MPT 2026 Practice Set — Sir Adnan 300 One-Liners with Answers (2026) · CSS

Q 20 English Idioms

Fill in blanks from best given options: A black plum is as sweet as ___ one.

A

White

Correct
B

Sugar

C

Honey

D

Salt

View answer & explanation Ans: White

Correct Answer: White

The correct answer is White, as asked in this question on Idioms.

From: Enforcement Officer Past Paper 2026 Solved (2026) · PPSC

Q 21 English Idioms

What does the idiom "Bury the hatchet" mean?

A

To make peace

Correct
B

To start a quarrel

C

To cause damage

D

None of these

View answer & explanation Ans: To make peace

Correct Answer: To make peace

"Bury the hatchet" is an idiom meaning to end a conflict and make peace with someone. It originates from a Native American tradition of literally burying weapons as a sign of peace.

From: PERA Enforcement Officer & Investigation Officer Solved Past Paper 2026 (PPSC) (2026) · PPSC

Q 22 English Idioms

What does the idiom "Break a leg" mean?

A

Bad luck

B

Good luck

Correct
C

Good performance

D

None of these

View answer & explanation Ans: Good luck

Correct Answer: Good luck

"Break a leg" is a popular theatrical idiom used to wish someone good luck, especially before a performance. Using the phrase directly is considered bad luck in theater tradition.

From: PERA Enforcement Officer & Investigation Officer Solved Past Paper 2026 (PPSC) (2026) · PPSC

Q 23 English Idioms

What does the idiom "In a fix" mean?

A

In a difficult predicament

Correct
B

Decided

C

Acceptable

D

None of these

View answer & explanation Ans: In a difficult predicament

Correct Answer: In a difficult predicament

"In a fix" is an idiom meaning to be in a difficult, awkward, or troublesome situation with no easy way out.

From: PERA Enforcement Officer & Investigation Officer Solved Past Paper 2026 (PPSC) (2026) · PPSC

Q 24 English Idioms

What does the idiom "Yeoman's work" mean?

A

Bad work

B

Excellent work

Correct
C

Moderate work

D

None of these

View answer & explanation Ans: Excellent work

Correct Answer: Excellent work

"Yeoman's work" (or yeoman service) is an idiom meaning excellent, efficient, and dedicated work. It originates from the reliable service rendered by yeomen in medieval England.

From: PERA Enforcement Officer & Investigation Officer Solved Past Paper 2026 (PPSC) (2026) · PPSC

Q 25 English Idioms

What does the idiom "Cut the mustard" mean?

A

To be damaged

B

To succeed or meet the required standard

Correct
C

To be unsuccessful

D

None of these

View answer & explanation Ans: To succeed or meet the required standard

Correct Answer: To succeed or meet the required standard

"Cut the mustard" means to meet the required standard or to succeed at a task. For example, "He finally cut the mustard in his new role" means he met the expectations.

From: PERA Enforcement Officer & Investigation Officer Solved Past Paper 2026 (PPSC) (2026) · PPSC

Q 26 English Idioms

What is the meaning of 'Rough up'?

A

Praise

B

Help

C

Challenge

Correct
D

Clean

View answer & explanation Ans: Challenge

Correct Answer: Challenge

'Rough up' often implies physical aggression or a tough encounter.

From: PPSC Assistant (BS-16) Past Paper 2026 Solved (2026) · PPSC

Q 27 English Idioms

What does 'Break a leg' mean?

A

Injured

B

Hurry

C

Good luck

Correct
D

None

View answer & explanation Ans: Good luck

Correct Answer: Good luck

'Break a leg' is an idiom used in the performing arts to wish someone good luck.

From: PPSC Enforcement/Intelligence Officer Past Paper 2026 Solved (2026) · PPSC

Q 28 English Idioms

What does 'To bury the hatchet' mean?

A

Hide evidence

B

Prepare for battle

C

End conflict

Correct
D

Postpone

View answer & explanation Ans: End conflict

Correct Answer: End conflict

To bury the hatchet is an idiom that means to make peace and end an argument or conflict.

From: PPSC Enforcement/Intelligence Officer Past Paper 2026 Solved (2026) · PPSC

Q 29 English Idioms

What does 'Cut the mustard' mean?

A

Bear consequences

B

Meet expectations

Correct
C

Start journey

D

Destroy

View answer & explanation Ans: Meet expectations

Correct Answer: Meet expectations

To 'cut the mustard' means to perform well enough to meet expectations or requirements.

From: PPSC Enforcement/Intelligence Officer Past Paper 2026 Solved (2026) · PPSC

Q 30 English Idioms

What does 'Yeoman's work' mean?

A

Hard work

Correct
B

Careless work

C

Efficient work

D

Needed work

View answer & explanation Ans: Hard work

Correct Answer: Hard work

'Yeoman's work' refers to efficient, substantial, or hard work done in a good cause.

From: PPSC Enforcement/Intelligence Officer Past Paper 2026 Solved (2026) · PPSC

Q 31 English Idioms

What does 'In a fix' mean?

A

Easy work

B

Happy situation

C

Relax time

D

Difficult situation

Correct
View answer & explanation Ans: Difficult situation

Correct Answer: Difficult situation

To be 'in a fix' means to be in a difficult or awkward situation.

From: PPSC Enforcement/Intelligence Officer Past Paper 2026 Solved (2026) · PPSC

Q 32 English Idioms

What is the meaning of the idiom "On cloud nine"?

A

Angry

B

Sad

C

Confused

D

Extremely happy

Correct
View answer & explanation Ans: Extremely happy

Correct Answer: Extremely happy

The idiom 'on cloud nine' describes a state of perfect happiness or euphoria.

From: PPSC Superintendent BS-17 Past Paper 2026 Solved (2026) · PPSC

Q 33 English Idioms

What is the meaning of the idiom "Hit the nail on the head"?

A

To be angry

B

To make a mistake

C

To hit something hard

D

To be exactly right

Correct
View answer & explanation Ans: To be exactly right

Correct Answer: To be exactly right

The idiom means to describe exactly what is causing a situation or problem.

From: PPSC Superintendent BS-17 Past Paper 2026 Solved (2026) · PPSC

Q 34 English Idioms

What is the meaning of the idiom "Let the cat out of the bag"?

A

Give latitude

B

Show compassion

C

Miss opportunity

D

Reveal secret unintentionally

Correct
View answer & explanation Ans: Reveal secret unintentionally

Correct Answer: Reveal secret unintentionally

To 'let the cat out of the bag' means to disclose a secret by mistake.

From: PPSC Superintendent BS-17 Past Paper 2026 Solved (2026) · PPSC

Q 35 English Idioms

Complete the idiom/phrase verb Out of sight out of ______?

A

Soul

B

light

C

mind

Correct
D

Guide

View answer & explanation Ans: mind

Correct Answer: mind

The correct answer is mind, as asked in this question on Idioms.

From: Senior Inspector & Assistant Director Past Paper 2026 Solved (2026) · PPSC

Q 36 English Idioms

The idiom "As old as the hills" means:

A

Very ancient or old

Correct
B

Very beautiful

C

Very modern

D

Very difficult

View answer & explanation Ans: Very ancient or old

Correct Answer: Very ancient or old

The correct answer is Very ancient or old, as asked in this question on Idioms.

From: Sergeant Past Paper 2026 Solved (2026) · PPSC

Q 37 English Idioms

"He got angry and hang up." What does "Hang up" mean?

A

To continue talking

B

To get excited

C

To disconnect

Correct
D

To wait

View answer & explanation Ans: To disconnect

Correct Answer: To disconnect

The correct answer is To disconnect, as asked in this question on Idioms.

From: Junior Clerk Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 38 English Idioms

Choose the meaning of given Idiom: "Strike while the iron is hot":

A

To work in a blacksmith's shop.

B

To be patient and wait.

C

To take immediate advantage of a favorable opportunity.

Correct
D

To hit someone hard.

View answer & explanation Ans: To take immediate advantage of a favorable opportunity.

Correct Answer: To take immediate advantage of a favorable opportunity.

The correct answer is To take immediate advantage of a favorable opportunity., as asked in this question on Idioms.

From: Junior Clerk Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 39 English Idioms

Which idiom is used for the importance of utilizing opportunity?

A

No pain, No gain

B

All that glitters is not gold

C

A bad workman quarrels with his tools

D

Make hay while the sun shines

Correct
View answer & explanation Ans: Make hay while the sun shines

Correct Answer: Make hay while the sun shines

The correct answer is Make hay while the sun shines, as asked in this question on Idioms.

From: Junior Clerk Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 40 English Idioms

Complete the phrase: A leopard can't change its ______.

A

Spots

Correct
B

Food

C

Feet

D

None of these

View answer & explanation Ans: Spots

Correct Answer: Spots

The idiom 'A leopard cannot change its spots' implies that people cannot change their basic nature.

From: PMS Ministerial Quota S&GAD Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PMS

Q 41 English Idioms

What is the meaning of the idiom: 'they managed to carry the day in the end'?

A

To be successful or victorious

Correct
B

Bad day

C

To be exhausted after the game

D

To lose the game

View answer & explanation Ans: To be successful or victorious

Correct Answer: To be successful or victorious

To 'carry the day' means to win or achieve success after a struggle.

From: PMS Ministerial Quota S&GAD Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PMS

Q 42 English Idioms

What is the meaning of the idiom in the sentence: 'He escaped from the secret police by the skin of his teeth'?

A

Vast

B

Narrowly

Correct
C

Openly

D

None of these

View answer & explanation Ans: Narrowly

Correct Answer: Narrowly

'By the skin of one's teeth' means to narrowly escape a situation.

From: PMS Ministerial Quota S&GAD Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PMS

Q 43 English Idioms

You should put _______ something for a rainy day.

A

on

B

by

Correct
C

down

D

up

View answer & explanation Ans: by

Correct Answer: by

To 'put by' means to save money for future needs.

From: PPSC Assistant Director (General Cadre) Past Paper 2025 (Paper 2) Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 44 English Idioms

Choose the correct idiom: Laugh ___ one's sleeves.

A

in

Correct
B

at

C

on

D

up

View answer & explanation Ans: in

Correct Answer: in

The idiom 'laugh in one's sleeves' means to be secretly amused.

From: PPSC Assistant Director (Research) Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 45 English Idioms

What does the idiom 'get your goat' mean?

A

To make someone laugh

B

To annoy or irritate someone

Correct
C

To make someone happy

D

To confuse someone

View answer & explanation Ans: To annoy or irritate someone

Correct Answer: To annoy or irritate someone

The idiom 'to get someone's goat' means to cause them to become annoyed or angry.

From: PPSC Assistant Director (Research) Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 46 English Idioms

What does the idiom 'apple-pie order' mean?

A

Neat & Tidy

Correct
B

Disordered

C

Mismanaged

D

Ornamental

View answer & explanation Ans: Neat & Tidy

Correct Answer: Neat & Tidy

The idiom 'apple-pie order' is used to describe something that is perfectly neat and tidy.

From: PPSC Assistant Director (Research) Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 47 English Idioms

What is the meaning of the idiom 'To pay through the nose'?

A

To pay too much money for something

Correct
B

Speaking or writing in an ironic or insincere way

C

Be left with an unwelcome responsibility

D

None of these

View answer & explanation Ans: To pay too much money for something

Correct Answer: To pay too much money for something

The idiom 'to pay through the nose' describes paying an excessively high price for goods or services.

From: PPSC Assistant Director (STAT) Agriculture Department Past Paper 2025 (2025) · PPSC

Q 48 English Idioms

Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom: 'A red letter day'.

A

An important day

Correct
B

An auspicious day

C

A dangerous day

D

An unimportant day

View answer & explanation Ans: An important day

Correct Answer: An important day

A 'red letter day' refers to a day that is pleasantly noteworthy or significant.

From: PPSC Assistant Director Finance, Account, Audit Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 49 English Idioms

Choose the correct meaning of the idiom 'Jump on the bandwagon'.

A

Be extremely excited about something.

B

Be influenced easily

C

Join a popular trend or activity

Correct
D

Call for trouble

View answer & explanation Ans: Join a popular trend or activity

Correct Answer: Join a popular trend or activity

To 'jump on the bandwagon' means to join others in doing something that is becoming fashionable or popular.

From: PPSC Assistant Director Punjab Small Industries Corporation Past Paper 2025 (2025) · PPSC

Q 50 English Idioms

What does the idiom 'Swallow the bait' mean?

A

To ignore a warning

B

To fully accept something, especially a trick or lie

Correct
C

To resist temptation

D

To speak without thinking

View answer & explanation Ans: To fully accept something, especially a trick or lie

Correct Answer: To fully accept something, especially a trick or lie

Swallowing the bait means being deceived or tricked into accepting something that seems attractive but is actually intended to entrap.

From: PPSC Assistant Director Punjab Small Industries Corporation Past Paper 2025 (2025) · PPSC

Q 51 English Idioms

What is the meaning of the idiom 'To take with a grain of salt'?

A

To take with some reservation

Correct
B

To take with total disbelief

C

To take wholeheartedly

D

To take seriously

View answer & explanation Ans: To take with some reservation

Correct Answer: To take with some reservation

Taking something with a grain of salt means viewing it with skepticism and not accepting it as completely true or accurate.

From: PPSC Assistant Director Punjab Small Industries Corporation Past Paper 2025 (2025) · PPSC

Q 52 English Idioms

What does 'A storm in a teacup' mean?

A

Unexpected event

B

A danger signal

C

Much excitement over something trivial

Correct
D

A great noise

View answer & explanation Ans: Much excitement over something trivial

Correct Answer: Much excitement over something trivial

This idiom describes a situation where there is a lot of anger, worry, or excitement about something that is not important.

From: PPSC Assistant Director Punjab Small Industries Corporation Past Paper 2025 (2025) · PPSC

Q 53 English Idioms

What is the meaning of the phrase 'Fair and Square'?

A

Honest

Correct
B

Business like

C

Authoritative

D

Active

View answer & explanation Ans: Honest

Correct Answer: Honest

The idiom 'fair and square' means to behave in an honest, open, and straightforward way.

From: PPSC Assistant Director Punjab Small Industries Corporation Past Paper 2025 (2025) · PPSC

Q 54 English Idioms

Meaning of HOLD UP:

A

Catch

B

Fell

C

Delay

Correct
D

End

View answer & explanation Ans: Delay

Correct Answer: Delay

To 'hold up' means to cause a delay.

From: PPSC Assistant PESSI Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 55 English Idioms

Meaning of idiom 'CHEEK BY JOWL':

A

Enemies

B

Secret

C

Close together

Correct
D

Hesitation

View answer & explanation Ans: Close together

Correct Answer: Close together

The idiom 'cheek by jowl' means to be very close together.

From: PPSC Assistant PESSI Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 56 English Idioms

The idiom "All and Sundry" means?

A

Specific

B

Everyone

Correct
C

Relevant

D

Experienced

View answer & explanation Ans: Everyone

Correct Answer: Everyone

The idiom 'all and sundry' refers to every person, regardless of their status or background.

From: PPSC Assistant Sub-Inspector Punjab Highway Patrol Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 57 English Idioms

What is the most accurate meaning of the proverb "Two wrongs don't make a right"?

A

Doing something bad in return makes things fair

B

One good deed can fix any mistake

C

Two people should never disagree

D

Two wrongs don't make a right.

Correct
View answer & explanation Ans: Two wrongs don't make a right.

Correct Answer: Two wrongs don't make a right.

The proverb means that reacting to a wrong action with another wrong action does not make the situation correct or justified.

From: PPSC Evaluation Officer, Statistical Officer, Economist, and Research Officer Past Paper 2025 (2025) · PPSC

Q 58 English Idioms

What does the phrase 'I reckon she's stringing you along' mean?

A

Mislead

Correct
B

Support

C

Ignore

D

Help

View answer & explanation Ans: Mislead

Correct Answer: Mislead

To 'string someone along' means to deceive someone for a long time about one's intentions.

From: PPSC Field Officer and Assistant Curator Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 59 English Idioms

Which of the following correctly explains the idiom 'off the flyer'?

A

To end something quickly

B

To start successfully or with a good beginning

Correct
C

To fly without direction

D

To cancel plans suddenly

View answer & explanation Ans: To start successfully or with a good beginning

Correct Answer: To start successfully or with a good beginning

The idiom 'off to a flying start' or related variations typically refers to beginning something with immediate success or momentum.

From: PPSC Industrial Development Officer Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 60 English Idioms

Fill in the blank: 'Rome was not built in a day'.

A

Italy

B

Rome

Correct
C

Egypt

D

None of these

View answer & explanation Ans: Rome

Correct Answer: Rome

The proverb 'Rome was not built in a day' means that important things take time.

From: PPSC Junior Clerk BS-11 Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 61 English Idioms

To cry over _____ milk:

A

Spoil

B

Split

Correct
C

Sour

D

Hard

View answer & explanation Ans: Split

Correct Answer: Split

The idiom is 'to cry over spilt milk,' meaning to be upset about something that has already happened and cannot be changed.

From: PPSC Junior Clerk Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 62 English Idioms

What does the idiom 'come off' mean?

A

To fail completely

B

To succeeded

Correct
C

To run away

D

To hide

View answer & explanation Ans: To succeeded

Correct Answer: To succeeded

In common usage, 'come off' can mean to succeed or to work out as intended.

From: PPSC Junior Clerk Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 63 English Idioms

Select the most appropriate meaning of the idiom: 'Have a bee in your bonnet'

A

Having a cruel intention or grudge against someone

B

Unable to stay at a place for long

C

To keep worrying about yourself

D

Be preoccupied or obsessed with something

Correct
View answer & explanation Ans: Be preoccupied or obsessed with something

Correct Answer: Be preoccupied or obsessed with something

To have a bee in one's bonnet means to be preoccupied or obsessed with an idea.

From: PPSC Junior Clerk Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 64 English Idioms

What does the idiom 'Call it a day' mean?

A

To start a new task

B

To take a short break

C

To stop working for the day

Correct
D

To celebrate success

View answer & explanation Ans: To stop working for the day

Correct Answer: To stop working for the day

To 'call it a day' is an idiom meaning to stop what you are doing because you have finished or do not want to do any more.

From: PPSC Junior Traffic Warden Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 65 English Idioms

Select the most appropriate meaning of the idiom: 'Work against the clock'.

A

Work in great hurry

Correct
B

Work with concentration

C

Work against all problems

D

Work late in the night

View answer & explanation Ans: Work in great hurry

Correct Answer: Work in great hurry

To work against the clock means to work very quickly because you have a limited amount of time to complete something.

From: PPSC Junior Traffic Warden Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 66 English Idioms

What is the meaning of the idiom: 'Do not put all your eggs in one basket'?

A

Do not show confidence on single work

B

Do not rely on one choice

Correct
C

Multi-Tasking

D

None of these

View answer & explanation Ans: Do not rely on one choice

Correct Answer: Do not rely on one choice

The idiom advises against concentrating all one's resources in a single area or venture.

From: PPSC Labour Officer (BS-16) Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 67 English Idioms

Choose the meaning of the idiom: 'At sixes and sevens'.

A

In disorder

Correct
B

Quickly

C

Straight

D

Immoderation

View answer & explanation Ans: In disorder

Correct Answer: In disorder

The idiom 'at sixes and sevens' means being in a state of confusion or disarray.

From: PPSC Labour Officer (BS-16) Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 68 English Idioms

What does the phrase 'put up with' mean?

A

To tolerate

Correct
B

To build

C

To put something away

D

To give up on something

View answer & explanation Ans: To tolerate

Correct Answer: To tolerate

The phrasal verb 'put up with' means to tolerate or endure something unpleasant.

From: PPSC Mineral Development Officer Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 69 English Idioms

What is the meaning of the idiom 'big is beautiful'?

A

Big is adventurous

B

Large size is attractive

Correct
C

Big things are always better

D

Bigger is stronger

View answer & explanation Ans: Large size is attractive

Correct Answer: Large size is attractive

The idiom 'big is beautiful' reflects the cultural sentiment that a larger size or scale can be aesthetically or inherently attractive.

From: PPSC Planning Officer 2025 Past Paper Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 70 English Idioms

Select the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the idiom: 'Bandy words'

A

To lie

B

To hint without expressing

C

To talk in a confused manner

D

To argue or exchange words heatedly

Correct
View answer & explanation Ans: To argue or exchange words heatedly

Correct Answer: To argue or exchange words heatedly

To bandy words means to engage in a heated argument or exchange of sharp words.

From: PPSC Punjab Enforcement and Regulatory Authority (PERA) Enforcement/Investigation Officer Past Paper 2025 (2025) · PPSC

Q 71 English Idioms

Select the correct meaning of the given idiom: 'On cloud nine'

A

To be lost in thoughts

B

To travel in space

C

To be extremely happy

Correct
D

To be far from home

View answer & explanation Ans: To be extremely happy

Correct Answer: To be extremely happy

Being on cloud nine is a common idiom meaning to be in a state of great happiness or elation.

From: PPSC Punjab Enforcement and Regulatory Authority (PERA) Enforcement/Investigation Officer Past Paper 2025 (2025) · PPSC

Q 72 English Idioms

What is a 'red-letter day'?

A

Disaster day

B

Very happy and important day

Correct
C

Sad day

D

Regular day

View answer & explanation Ans: Very happy and important day

Correct Answer: Very happy and important day

A red-letter day is an idiom describing a memorable, important, or happy day.

From: PPSC Sub Inspector Punjab Police Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 73 English Idioms

What is the meaning of the idiom 'to hole and corner'?

A

Open

B

Secret

Correct
C

Careless

D

None of these

View answer & explanation Ans: Secret

Correct Answer: Secret

To hole and corner means to do something in a secret or clandestine manner.

From: PPSC Sub Inspector Punjab Police Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 74 English Idioms

What is the meaning of 'to call a spade a spade'?

A

To use the correct tool for the job

B

To dig for the truth

C

To disguise the truth

D

To speak bluntly and truthfully

Correct
View answer & explanation Ans: To speak bluntly and truthfully

Correct Answer: To speak bluntly and truthfully

The idiom means to speak the truth even if it is unpleasant.

From: PPSC Sub Inspector Punjab Police Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 75 English Idioms

What is the meaning of 'nip in the bud'?

A

To destroy at the end

B

To waste time

C

Destroy in the very beginning

Correct
D

To make use of time

View answer & explanation Ans: Destroy in the very beginning

Correct Answer: Destroy in the very beginning

To nip something in the bud means to stop it at an early stage before it develops further.

From: PPSC Sub Inspector Punjab Police Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 76 English Idioms

What is the meaning of 'to bury the hatchet'?

A

To hide evidence

B

To postpone a decision

C

To end conflict and make peace

Correct
D

To prepare for battle

View answer & explanation Ans: To end conflict and make peace

Correct Answer: To end conflict and make peace

Burying the hatchet is an idiom meaning to make peace and stop fighting.

From: PPSC Sub Inspector Punjab Police Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 77 English Idioms

What is the meaning of 'to be in hot water'?

A

To get into trouble

Correct
B

Easy task

C

To be impatient

D

Huge financial loss

View answer & explanation Ans: To get into trouble

Correct Answer: To get into trouble

To be in hot water means to be in a difficult situation or to be in trouble.

From: PPSC Sub Inspector Punjab Police Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 78 English Idioms

What is the meaning of 'to face the music'?

A

To bear the consequences

Correct
B

To be greeted rudely

C

To afford hospitality

D

To take a front seat

View answer & explanation Ans: To bear the consequences

Correct Answer: To bear the consequences

To face the music means to accept the unpleasant consequences of one's actions.

From: PPSC Sub Inspector Punjab Police Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 79 English Idioms

What is the meaning of the idiom 'to drive home'?

A

To find one's root

B

To emphasize

Correct
C

Back to original position

D

None of these

View answer & explanation Ans: To emphasize

Correct Answer: To emphasize

To drive home a point means to make it clearly understood or to emphasize it.

From: PPSC Sub Inspector Punjab Police Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 80 English Idioms

Choose the correct meaning of the underlined idiom: At present the organization incorporated graduates who are usually birds of passage.

A

Very sensitive

B

Highly skilled and experienced

C

Living a wandering or unsettled life

Correct
D

Passionate

View answer & explanation Ans: Living a wandering or unsettled life

Correct Answer: Living a wandering or unsettled life

The idiom 'birds of passage' refers to people who do not stay long in one place.

From: PPSC Sub Inspector Service Quota Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 81 English Idioms

Find the meaning of the idiomatic phrase: Full of beans

A

Overjoyed

B

Very active

Correct
C

Very nervous

D

Sad

View answer & explanation Ans: Very active

Correct Answer: Very active

To be 'full of beans' means to be full of energy and very active.

From: PPSC Sub Inspector Service Quota Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 82 English Idioms

Choose the correct meaning of the idiom: Sit on the fence.

A

Be in the middle of things

B

Run into trouble

C

Someone who does everything on its own

D

To not make a decision

Correct
View answer & explanation Ans: To not make a decision

Correct Answer: To not make a decision

To sit on the fence means to avoid taking sides or making a decision.

From: PPSC Zilladar BS-16 Past Paper 2025 Solved (2025) · PPSC

Q 83 English Idioms

'Pull your socks up' means:

A

To finish

B

To get ready

C

To start

D

To improve

Correct
View answer & explanation Ans: To improve

Correct Answer: To improve

The idiom 'pull your socks up' means to make an effort to improve one's work or performance.

From: PPSC Zilladar BS-16 Past Paper 2025 Solved - Irrigation Department (2025) · PPSC

Q 84 English Idioms

Choose the correct meaning of the idiom 'a couch potato'.

A

A clever person

B

An important person

C

An ideal person

D

A lazy person

Correct
View answer & explanation Ans: A lazy person

Correct Answer: A lazy person

A 'couch potato' is a common idiom used to describe a person who is habitually lazy and sits on the couch for long periods.

From: PPSC Zilladar BS-16 Past Paper 2025 Solved - Irrigation Department (2025) · PPSC

Q 85 English Idioms

The idiom 'Above the fold' means:

A

Neat & tidy

B

In the top part of a newspaper page

Correct
C

Come to the point

D

Warning or Small Punishment

View answer & explanation Ans: In the top part of a newspaper page

Correct Answer: In the top part of a newspaper page

The idiom 'above the fold' refers to the top half of a newspaper where the most important stories are placed.

From: PPSC Assistant (BS-16) Past Paper 2024 Solved (2024) · PPSC

Q 86 English Idioms

Choose the correct meaning of the given idiom: At daggers drawn

A

In a peaceful relationship

B

In a state of confusion

C

A bitter enemy

Correct
D

Healthy competition

View answer & explanation Ans: A bitter enemy

Correct Answer: A bitter enemy

The idiom 'at daggers drawn' signifies a state of bitter hostility or readiness to fight between parties.

From: PPSC Assistant (BS-16) S&GAD and Punjab Police Past Paper 2024 (Paper 2) Solved (2024) · PPSC

Q 87 English Idioms

Choose the correct meaning of the given Idiom: 'To give up the ghost'

A

To suffer

B

To fight evil forces

C

To die

Correct
D

To become rational

View answer & explanation Ans: To die

Correct Answer: To die

The idiom 'to give up the ghost' is an old expression that means to expire or to die.

From: PPSC Assistant (BS-16) S&GAD and Punjab Police Past Paper 2024 Solved (2024) · PPSC

Q 88 English Idioms

Add ___ to injuries.

A

Anger

B

Insult

Correct
C

Salt

D

Abuse

View answer & explanation Ans: Insult

Correct Answer: Insult

The correct English idiom is 'To add insult to injury', meaning to worsen an already bad situation.

From: PPSC Assistant (BS-16) S&GAD and Punjab Police Past Paper 2024 Solved (2024) · PPSC

Q 89 English Idioms

Your old house is a far cry from the new house. The meaning of the underlined idiom is:

A

Very different from

Correct
B

Strong

C

To cry internally

D

To hide your emotions

View answer & explanation Ans: Very different from

Correct Answer: Very different from

The idiom 'a far cry from' means that something is notably or significantly different from something else.

From: PPSC Assistant Director (BS-17) Local Government Past Paper 2024 Solved (2024) · PPSC

Q 90 English Idioms

Complete the phrase: Keep the wolf from _____.

A

the house

B

the door

Correct
C

the bays

D

the ear

View answer & explanation Ans: the door

Correct Answer: the door

'Keep the wolf from the door' is an English idiom meaning to have enough money to avert hunger or starvation.

From: PPSC Assistant S&GAD Past Paper 2024 Solved (2024) · PPSC

Q 91 English Idioms

What does the idiom "a bolt from the blue" mean?

A

A sudden and unexpected event

Correct
B

Good news

C

A moment of clarity

D

A warning before something bad happens

View answer & explanation Ans: A sudden and unexpected event

Correct Answer: A sudden and unexpected event

The phrase describes an event that happens suddenly and without warning, like a lightning bolt from a clear blue sky.

From: PPSC Assistant S&GAD Past Paper 2024 Solved (2024) · PPSC

Q 92 English Idioms

Choose the meaning of the underlined phrase: 'I will pencil you in for Tuesday the 18th.'

A

Appointment

Correct
B

Particular

C

Respect

D

Independent

View answer & explanation Ans: Appointment

Correct Answer: Appointment

To 'pencil someone in' means to schedule an appointment or meeting with them.

From: PPSC Clubbed Case 98-2024 Assistant and Officer Past Paper Solved (2024) · PPSC

Q 93 English Idioms

You cannot 'have your cake and eat it too'. What does this idiom mean?

A

Enjoy forever

B

Have it both ways

Correct
C

Run away from responsibility

D

Absolve yourself of guilt

View answer & explanation Ans: Have it both ways

Correct Answer: Have it both ways

The idiom means you cannot possess two incompatible things at the same time.

From: PPSC Corporal (BS-11) Counter Terrorism Department Punjab Police Past Paper 2024 (2024) · PPSC

Q 94 English Idioms

The phrase 'dies away' means:

A

Disappear gradually

Correct
B

Stay constant

C

Increase rapidly

D

Become more vivid

View answer & explanation Ans: Disappear gradually

Correct Answer: Disappear gradually

'Dies away' describes the gradual fading or cessation of something, such as sound or light.

From: PPSC Corporal (BS-11) Counter Terrorism Department Punjab Police Past Paper 2024 (2024) · PPSC

Q 95 English Idioms

What does 'through thick and thin' mean?

A

Under all circumstances

Correct
B

In spite of all difficulties

C

Through days of struggle

D

Through happy days

View answer & explanation Ans: Under all circumstances

Correct Answer: Under all circumstances

The idiom 'through thick and thin' means to stay with someone or something regardless of the circumstances.

From: PPSC Corporal (BS-11) Counter Terrorism Department Punjab Police Past Paper 2024 (2024) · PPSC

Q 96 English Idioms

What does 'Hit the sack' mean?

A

Go to bed or sleep

Correct
B

Box the bag

C

Hit the potato sack with a stick

D

Throw the sack to the floor

View answer & explanation Ans: Go to bed or sleep

Correct Answer: Go to bed or sleep

This is a common English idiom meaning to retire for the night.

From: PPSC Corporal (BS-11) Counter Terrorism Department Punjab Police Past Paper 2024 (2024) · PPSC

Q 97 English Idioms

What is the meaning of the idiom 'A wild-goose chase'?

A

A fruitful chase

B

To run like a wild goose

C

A useless effort

Correct
D

To run wildly

View answer & explanation Ans: A useless effort

Correct Answer: A useless effort

A wild-goose chase refers to a foolish or hopeless search for something unattainable.

From: PPSC Corporal (BS-11) Counter Terrorism Department Punjab Police Past Paper 2024 (2024) · PPSC

Q 98 English Idioms

What does the idiom 'to call a spade a spade' mean?

A

To speak in plain terms

Correct
B

To dig for the truth

C

To use the correct tool for the job

D

To disguise the truth with euphemisms

View answer & explanation Ans: To speak in plain terms

Correct Answer: To speak in plain terms

This idiom means to speak the truth plainly and directly, even if it is unpleasant.

From: PPSC Corporal (BS-11) Counter Terrorism Department Punjab Police Past Paper 2024 (2024) · PPSC

Q 99 English Idioms

What is the meaning of the idiom 'Man of straw'?

A

A very active person

B

A man whose character is weak

Correct
C

A worthy fellow

D

An unreasonable person

View answer & explanation Ans: A man whose character is weak

Correct Answer: A man whose character is weak

A 'man of straw' refers to a person who lacks strength of character or is easily influenced.

From: PPSC Corporal (BS-11) Counter Terrorism Department Punjab Police Past Paper 2024 (2024) · PPSC

Q 100 English Idioms

Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom: At sixes and sevens

A

Accessible

B

In disorder

Correct
C

Going strong

D

In moderation

View answer & explanation Ans: In disorder

Correct Answer: In disorder

The idiom 'at sixes and sevens' describes a state of total confusion, disarray, or disorder.

From: PPSC Deputy Secretary/Controller of Examinations Past Paper 2024 Solved (2024) · PPSC

Showing 100 of 319 distinct Idioms questions (338 tagged in the bank in total). The rest are reachable through the source papers in the Past Papers archive and the Quiz Builder.

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The bank holds 338 questions tagged "Idioms" under English, drawn from 136 solved papers (2004–2026). After merging the same question asked in multiple papers, 319 are distinct; this page shows the top 100.

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They are pulled from the solved papers in the GK360 archive — PPSC, CSS, PMS papers among them — and every card on this page names its source paper and year, so you can open the full paper from the Past Papers archive.

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Yes — 100 of the 100 questions shown carry a written explanation under the answer; the rest show the verified correct answer for revision. Every answer passed GK360's three-way check (printed key, worked material, standard fact).

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