Idioms and Phrases


Direction: In the following questions four alternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase in bold in the sentence. Choose the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the Idiom/Phrase.

  1. As soon as the police arrived, the bank robbers showed the white flag.









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    show white flag : a sign that you accept defeat and wish to stop fighting
    ● The soldiers laid down their guns and walked towards the enemy camp, carrying a white flag. The best option is surrendered

    Correct Option: B

    show white flag : a sign that you accept defeat and wish to stop fighting
    ● The soldiers laid down their guns and walked towards the enemy camp, carrying a white flag. The best option is surrendered


  1. He is a cut above all the other boys in the group.









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    A cut above somebody : better than somebody/something.
    ● His latest novel is a cut above the rest. The best option is rather superior to

    Correct Option: D

    A cut above somebody : better than somebody/something.
    ● His latest novel is a cut above the rest. The best option is rather superior to



  1. to throw dust in one’s eyes.









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    To throw dust in one’s eyes : to deceive
    ● She threw dust in the eyes of the jeweller by pretending to be a well-to-do lady, and then stole the necklace. The best option is to deceive

    Correct Option: B

    To throw dust in one’s eyes : to deceive
    ● She threw dust in the eyes of the jeweller by pretending to be a well-to-do lady, and then stole the necklace. The best option is to deceive


  1. If you read between the lines, you will appreciate what he writes.









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    Read between the lines : to look for or discover a meaning in something that is not openly stated.
    ● Reading between the lines, I think she needs money. The best option is know what the writer thinks

    Correct Option: C

    Read between the lines : to look for or discover a meaning in something that is not openly stated.
    ● Reading between the lines, I think she needs money. The best option is know what the writer thinks



  1. He gave vent to his pleasure with a smile.









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    Give vent to something = to express a feeling
    ● Children give vent to their anger in various ways. The best option is expressed

    Correct Option: C

    Give vent to something = to express a feeling
    ● Children give vent to their anger in various ways. The best option is expressed