Idioms & Phrases — Set 3
Questions 21–30 of 200
What does 'nose out' mean in a competitive context?
Correct Answer: B. Win by a very small margin
'Nose out' means to win a competition by a very small margin, narrowly defeating an opponent. The nose symbolizes the front-most part, similar to how a race is won by inches. The phrase originated from horse racing where horses literally cross the finish line nose-first.
What is the meaning of 'nose your way'?
Correct Answer: B. Investigate or explore gradually
'Nose your way' means to investigate, explore, or gradually find your way through something, often by being curious or persistent. It suggests following clues or hints to discover information. The phrase implies careful exploration and detective-like behavior.
What does 'lay your cards on the table' mean?
Correct Answer: B. Be honest and reveal your intentions
'Lay your cards on the table' means to be completely honest and reveal your true intentions or feelings. It originated from card games where showing your cards means you can't cheat. The phrase indicates transparency and honesty in communication.
What is the meaning of 'get a handle on'?
Correct Answer: B. Understand or gain control of something
'Get a handle on' means to understand something or gain control over a situation. The handle represents something tangible to grip. The phrase suggests moving from confusion or chaos to understanding and control of a situation.
What does 'point the finger' mean?
Correct Answer: B. Accuse or blame someone
'Point the finger' means to accuse or blame someone for something. It suggests singling out a person as responsible for a problem or wrongdoing. The gesture of pointing at someone is used metaphorically to indicate blame or accusation.
What is the meaning of 'pull someone's leg'?
Correct Answer: B. Tease or trick someone in a joking way
'Pull someone's leg' means to tease or trick someone in a playful, joking manner. It doesn't involve actual physical contact. The phrase suggests making someone the subject of a harmless joke or prank meant for entertainment.
What does 'break a leg' mean?
Correct Answer: B. Wish someone good luck, especially in a performance
'Break a leg' is a wish for good luck, particularly used in theater before performances. Despite sounding negative, it's genuinely positive. The expression possibly originated from theater superstition where wishing bad luck was believed to bring good luck instead.
What is the meaning of 'leg up'?
Correct Answer: B. An advantage or head start
'Leg up' means having an advantage or head start in a competition or situation. It suggests being in a better position than others. The phrase comes from the literal meaning of helping someone up by lifting their leg, metaphorically meaning giving an advantage.
What does 'all ears' mean?
Correct Answer: B. Completely listening and attentive
'All ears' means to be completely listening and fully attentive to what someone is saying. When someone says 'I'm all ears,' they're expressing keen interest and willingness to listen. The phrase suggests focusing entirely on hearing what the other person has to say.
What is the meaning of 'turn a deaf ear'?
Correct Answer: B. Ignore or refuse to listen
'Turn a deaf ear' means to deliberately ignore something or refuse to listen. It suggests choosing not to hear or respond to someone. The phrase indicates intentional disregard for what is being said or requested.