Idioms & Phrases

Which answer best defines At the end of one’s tether?

• Watch or pressure someone very closely
• Exhausted from arguing or trying without success
• Keep changing one’s opinion or attitude
• Unable to deal with a difficult situation any longer

Which answer best defines An olive branch?

• Honest, open, and legal
• An offer of peace
• Opposite to what is usual or natural
• Be patient with someone or something

What does the idiom At the mercy of mean?

• With all belongings; completely
• Completely controlled by someone or something
• Being the person who suffers or is affected by something
• Available for someone to use
• Force someone to obey or submit

Choose the correct meaning of At the outset.

• Very hostile and ready to quarrel
• Make financial records correct or make income equal expenses
• At the beginning
• Wait patiently for the right opportunity

What does the idiom A mixed blessing mean?

• Something expected to be exciting but turns out disappointing
• Different methods can lead to the same result
• A mind focused on only one thing
• Something that has both good and bad effects
• A warning that makes someone realize action is needed

Choose the correct meaning of A tall order.

• An unpleasant fact that is difficult to accept
• A general improvement that benefits everyone
• A decisive test that proves the real quality of something
• A difficult task or demand

In English, what is meant by A narrow margin?

• Something that has both advantages and disadvantages
• A reliable person who can be trusted with responsibility
• A very small difference
• A difficult or awkward situation

Select the option that best explains A two-way street.

• A very small difference
• A mind focused on only one thing
• With responsibility for any danger or loss
• A subject that makes someone upset or angry
• A situation where both sides must give or act

Select the option that best explains A necessary evil.

• Something unpleasant but needed
• Something that greatly changes a situation
• A state of false happiness based on wrong hopes
• A kind person who helps someone in trouble
• A person who is unexpectedly successful or has hidden ability

For SSC English, identify the meaning of Above board.

• A difficult or awkward situation
• A mind focused on only one thing
• Available for someone to use
• Honest, open, and legal

For SSC English, identify the meaning of A passing fancy.

• Only when all other choices have failed
• A short-lived interest
• Honest, open, and legal
• Everyone without distinction

What is the figurative meaning of A pipe dream?

• As a normal or expected thing
• A warning that makes someone realize action is needed
• A very big change
• An unrealistic hope or plan
• A general improvement that benefits everyone

Which meaning matches the phrase All and sundry?

• Keeping a promise
• At the beginning
• Everyone without distinction
• As a normal or expected thing