Academic Vocabulary

Select the best explanation of At a pinch.

• To transform something completely
• To receive unfair or worse treatment
• Much better than others of the same type
• If necessary, especially in a difficult situation

Which answer explains At arm’s length correctly?

• At a distance, especially to avoid close involvement
• On first impression
• Very seriously ill or near death
• By honest or dishonest methods

Which meaning best matches the idiom At bottom?

• To wait anxiously or expectantly
• A very small distance, difference, or margin
• To become successful or real after effort
• Basically or fundamentally
• A career marked by both successes and failures or controversies

Which meaning best matches the idiom A rough-and-ready method?

• To sound convincing or believable
• A decisive moment that tests a person, plan, or situation
• A warning action meant to prevent stronger action later
• A simple practical method that is not exact or polished
• Basically or fundamentally

What does the phrase A rule of thumb approach mean in standard English?

• A general practical method based on experience rather than exact calculation
• To be in a very uncertain or dangerous state
• To hurt, wound, or make a successful attack in argument
• Very similar in character, nature, or behavior

Choose the correct meaning of A shadow of doubt.

• A final desperate attempt to solve a problem or avoid failure
• As an extra addition
• A small amount of uncertainty
• If necessary, especially in a difficult situation

Which option gives the closest meaning of A skeleton in the cupboard?

• A cause of disagreement or argument
• By any possible interpretation or effort of thinking
• At an important point when a decision or change is needed
• A hidden and embarrassing secret from the past

Identify the correct meaning of the expression A slip of the pen.

• To receive unfair or worse treatment
• To happen or become real
• To have a personal stake or benefit in something
• Again and again; everywhere one tries
• A small mistake made while writing

What idea is expressed by A source of contention?

• During the most intense or advanced stage of something
• As an extra addition
• A general practical method based on experience rather than exact calculation
• A cause of disagreement or argument

Choose the correct meaning of A note of caution.

• Between two equally dangerous or difficult choices
• A warning or reminder to be careful
• To make something very clear and noticeable
• A simple practical method that is not exact or polished

In English grammar, how should A pack of lies be understood?

• A collection of false statements
• To have a hidden weakness despite an admirable image
• From very near or in close contact
• Much better than others of the same type

Which option gives the closest meaning of A pillar of society?

• A respected and responsible person in a community
• To reach a stage where one’s ability or value is fully shown
• To have a personal stake or benefit in something
• Briefly and without much detail
• A collection of false statements