Idioms & Phrases — Set 7

Correct Answer: B. Trouble or conflict is developing

'Storm brewing' describes trouble or conflict that is developing or about to occur. Just as a physical storm builds before it hits, conflicts and problems develop with warning signs. The phrase suggests impending problems that can be anticipated.

Correct Answer: B. Successfully overcome a difficult period

'Weather the storm' means to successfully overcome a difficult or challenging period. It suggests enduring hardship until it passes. The phrase comes from the maritime concept of surviving severe weather at sea.

Correct Answer: B. Peaceful period before major conflict

'Calm before the storm' describes a peaceful or quiet period that precedes a major conflict or difficult time. It suggests that apparent peace might be deceptive and turmoil is coming. The phrase warns that peaceful circumstances may not last.

Correct Answer: B. Feeling ill or unwell

'Under the weather' means to feel ill, sick, or generally unwell. The phrase's origin relates to seasickness on ships where sick sailors would be placed below deck, away from the weather. It's commonly used to describe feeling poorly.

Correct Answer: B. Every difficult situation has a positive aspect

'Every cloud has a silver lining' means that even difficult situations have some positive aspect or benefit. It's a metaphor encouraging optimism during hardship. The phrase suggests looking for good outcomes even in challenging circumstances.

Correct Answer: B. Series of sorrows or tragic events

'Trail of tears' (metaphorically) describes a series of sorrows, tragic events, or devastating consequences. While historically referencing Native American displacement, it now generally describes deep sorrow. The phrase suggests accumulated sadness and loss.

Correct Answer: B. Overwhelmed by sudden difficulties

'Caught in a downpour' can mean literally being in heavy rain, but metaphorically means being overwhelmed by sudden difficulties. It suggests unexpected challenges that catch you unprepared. The phrase implies being suddenly affected by adverse circumstances.

Correct Answer: B. Cheerful and optimistic personality

'Sunny disposition' describes a cheerful, optimistic, and positive personality. The sun's brightness is used metaphorically to represent cheerfulness. A person with a sunny disposition brings positivity and good humor to situations.

Correct Answer: B. Take credit for someone's work or achievement

'Steal someone's thunder' means to take credit for someone else's achievement or success, or to overshadow their accomplishment. Thunder metaphorically represents impressive impact. The phrase suggests diminishing someone's achievement by claiming credit or overshadowing them.

Correct Answer: B. Initiate friendly relations or conversation

'Break the ice' means to initiate friendly relations or overcome initial awkwardness in a social situation. The metaphor suggests warming a frozen environment. The phrase is used when someone takes the first step to establish connection with others.