Idioms & Phrases — Set 18

Correct Answer: B. Fair and equal conditions for all participants

'Level playing field' means fair and equal conditions for all participants or competitors. The field metaphor represents the context of competition. The phrase emphasizes impartiality and equal opportunity for all involved.

Correct Answer: B. The largest or best part of something

'Lion's share' means the largest or best portion of something, often more than a fair portion. The lion metaphor represents strength and dominance. The phrase comes from Aesop's Fables where the lion claimed the best part of prey.

Correct Answer: B. Gain wisdom from life experiences

'Live and learn' expresses the idea that wisdom comes from experiencing life and making mistakes. The phrase acknowledges that learning is a continuous process throughout life. It suggests accepting imperfection and growing from experience.

Correct Answer: B. Live luxuriously or in comfort

'Live high on the hog' means to live luxuriously, comfortably, or in an extravagant manner. The hog metaphor comes from butchery where higher cuts of meat were more expensive and desirable. The phrase describes affluent, comfortable living.

Correct Answer: B. Former romantic partner no longer in contact

'Long lost love' refers to a former romantic partner or beloved person with whom contact has been lost for an extended period. The long lost metaphor emphasizes the passage of time and distance. The phrase evokes nostalgia and emotional yearning.

Correct Answer: B. Consider consequences before taking action

'Look before you leap' means to consider consequences before taking action, especially impulsive action. The leap metaphor represents rash decisions. The phrase advises thoughtful deliberation before committing to significant actions.

Correct Answer: B. Unpredictable person who causes problems

'Loose cannon' describes an unpredictable person who causes problems through reckless or uncontrolled behavior. The cannon metaphor comes from naval warfare where loose cannons could cause major damage. The phrase describes someone dangerous due to unpredictability.

Correct Answer: B. Give summary instead of full details

'Make a long story short' means to give a summary or abbreviated version instead of full details or lengthy explanation. The phrase introduces a condensed account of events. It signals the speaker is going to be concise rather than detailed.

Correct Answer: B. Take advantage of favorable circumstances

'Make hay while the sun shines' means to take advantage of favorable circumstances or opportunities when they exist. The hay metaphor comes from agricultural practices requiring good weather. The phrase emphasizes seizing opportunities before they pass.

Correct Answer: B. Exaggerate small problems into major ones

'Make mountains out of molehills' means to exaggerate small problems into major crises or magnify minor issues. The mountain and molehill metaphor contrasts vastly different scales. The phrase criticizes overreaction to minor difficulties.