Idioms and Phrases #2

For a healthy and lasting friendship one must be on the level.

(1) equally rich

(2) mentally compatible

(3) honest and sincere

(4) ready for sacrifices

Correct Answer: (3) honest and sincere

Explanation:
The phrase “on the level” means to be straightforward, truthful, and fair in dealings. So, in a friendship, being “on the level” means being honest and sincere.


He cannot hold a candle to his elder brother.

(1) equal to

(2) not as clever as

(3) cannot be compared to

(4) duller than

Correct Answer: (3) cannot be compared to

Explanation:
“To not hold a candle to someone” means to be inferior or not nearly as good as someone else, often in terms of ability or character. Hence, the person cannot be compared to his elder brother due to the difference in capability or merit.


When they were surrounded from all sides, the dacoits laid down their arms.

(1) put their arms on the ground

(2) fought bravely

(3) surrendered

(4) became nervous

Correct Answer: (3) surrendered

Explanation:
To “lay down one’s arms” literally means to put down weapons. Figuratively, it means to surrender, especially in a conflict or confrontation.


The angry hockey players gave vent to their feelings.

(1) to express

(2) to emphasise

(3) to suppress

(4) to dismiss

Correct Answer: (1) to express

Explanation:
To “give vent to” something means to release or express strong emotions, especially anger or frustration.


to take to one’s heels

(1) to walk slowly

(2) to run away

(3) to march forward

(4) to hop and jump

Correct Answer: (2) to run away

Explanation:
The idiom “take to one’s heels” means to run away quickly, often from danger or fear.


Gopi works by fits and starts.

(1) consistently

(2) irregularly

(3) in high spirits

(4) enthusiastically

Correct Answer: (2) irregularly

Explanation:
“By fits and starts” means not in a consistent or steady manner, but rather irregularly or sporadically.


When the Inspector entered the class some of the students shook in their shoes.

(1) stamped the ground with their shoes

(2) showed signs of anger

(3) trembled with fear

(4) stood up to salute

Correct Answer: (3) trembled with fear

Explanation:
“To shake in one’s shoes” means to be extremely frightened or nervous, often because of authority or fear of punishment.


to strain every nerve

(1) to make utmost efforts

(2) to feel weak and tired

(3) to be a diligent worker

(4) to be methodical in work

Correct Answer: (1) to make utmost efforts

Explanation:
“To strain every nerve” means to try extremely hard or make every possible effort to achieve something.


The carefully worked–out plan fell through because of an unexpected event.

(1) came out successfully

(2) had a steep fall

(3) was shattered

(4) failed

Correct Answer: (4) failed

Explanation:
“Fell through” means a plan or attempt failed or did not materialize as expected.


I trust you will bear with me a few minutes more.

(1) have patience with

(2) support

(3) carry the burden for

(4) be in control for

Answer:- (1) have patience with

The phrasal verb “bear with” means to be patient with someone while they are doing something, especially when it might take a little time or cause slight inconvenience.


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